North Macedonia
Southern Europe • MKD
Last updated: September 25, 2026
North Macedonia is a hidden gem in the Balkans offering a rich tapestry of Byzantine history, stunning mountain landscapes, and vibrant lakeside towns. Visitors can experience authentic Balkan culture, incredibly affordable prices, and warm hospitality away from the typical tourist crowds.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, and many other countries can visit North Macedonia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure
- Proof of accommodation
- Sufficient funds for the duration of stay
- Travel insurance documentation
Popular Attractions
Lake Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its crystal-clear waters and ancient churches perched on cliffs.
Matka Canyon offers breathtaking natural beauty just a short drive from Skopje, perfect for hiking and kayaking.
The Old Bazaar in Skopje provides a historic atmosphere with narrow cobblestone streets filled with artisan shops and traditional cafes.
Stone Bridge in Skopje is an iconic 15th-century structure that beautifully connects the old and new parts of the city.
Pelister National Park features glacial lakes known as the 'Mountain Eyes' and offers diverse trails for adventurous hikers.
Local Customs & Etiquette
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's private home.
Coffee culture is vital, and it is common to spend hours sipping a single cup while socializing.
When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to begin before you start your meal.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving 5-10 percent at restaurants is generally considered generous.
When greeting someone, a firm handshake with direct eye contact is the standard practice.
Safety Tips
Stick to marked paths while hiking in national parks to avoid potential unexploded ordnance in remote areas.
Exercise normal precautions in major cities and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded tourist spots.
Only use official taxi companies and ensure the meter is running before starting your journey.
Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities, but check with your accommodation if you are in rural areas.
Keep emergency numbers stored in your phone and have a copy of your passport readily available.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Polio
Source: CDC
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to North Macedonia.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to North Macedonia. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into North Macedonia.
View sourceCore Vaccines
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Stay updated depending on your vaccination status.
View sourceRabies vaccination
Source: CDC
Rabies is present in some terrestrial wildlife species in North Macedonia. If rabies exposures occur, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.
Consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.
View sourceTdap
Source: CDC
Ensure booster is up to date, especially for adults and older travelers.
View sourceMMR
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure to measles.
View sourceRoutine childhood vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccines are up to date before travel for health protection.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended due to potential exposure through food and water.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to ensure immunity against measles.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, varicella, influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Hepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially if visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or areas with questionable sanitation.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccinations
Source: CDC
Recommended for all eligible travelers due to ongoing COVID-19 circulation.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended to prevent severe illness from COVID-19.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
If you might receive medical care or have sexual contact with the local population.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
If you will be involved in activities such as hiking or biking in rural areas.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended to prevent diseases spread by insects.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers who might have contact with blood or bodily fluids, medical treatment, or sexual contact.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers involved in outdoor activities like camping or hiking that put them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Follow safe eating and drinking habits to prevent traveler's diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and use permethrin-treated clothing to prevent vector-borne diseases.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Follow safe food and water practices to prevent traveler's diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink only treated, bottled, or canned beverages.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use permethrin-treated gear to prevent vector-borne diseases.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered based on potential exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination if you anticipate potential exposure to animals.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities like camping, hiking, or caving that puts them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To protect against diseases transmitted by insects, especially in rural areas.
View sourceFood and water safety measures
Source: CDC
Due to potential risks in food and water sanitation.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly recommended for all travelers for personal protection.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or those who are adventurous eaters.
Contracted through contaminated food or water.
View source