5 REASONS WHY EXPATS CHOOSE NORTH MACEDONIA FOR LIVING AND BUSINESS

…and what you should know in advance

North Macedonia is still a “hidden gem” on the European map. It attracts foreigners with its affordable lifestyle, flexible regulations, and ease of communication. But like any country, it comes with its own specifics. At Urban Consult, we believe in being honest — about both opportunities and challenges.

1. Climate and Lifestyle: Warm, Peaceful — with a Few Considerations

What to know in advance: Not just the pros, but the realities of life in North Macedonia.

Summers can get very hot — temperatures sometimes reach +40°C. Without air conditioning, it can be tough, especially in Skopje. But summer is also when the country comes alive: many people head to the lakes, mountains, or Ohrid, where the climate is more pleasant and cultural events are in full swing. It’s the season of evening cafés, open terraces, and slow walks.

In winter, some areas of Skopje experience poor air quality due to the use of solid fuels for heating. This issue is typical across the Balkans. However, the situation is improving as people and the government shift to greener solutions — and newer neighborhoods are less affected. Winters here are also milder and shorter than in many European countries.

Skopje doesn't host many large concerts or international tours — it’s a small country with limited infrastructure for such events. But during summer, the cultural scene shifts to Ohrid — a lakeside resort city. It hosts international festivals and welcomes performers from across Europe and the Balkans, creating a festive atmosphere.

North Macedonia isn’t about hustle and noise — it’s about warmth, authenticity, and a more intimate pace of life. And if you crave excitement, you’ll find it — just at the right time and place.

2. Cost of Living: Affordable, but Not "Ultra-Cheap"

Let’s talk numbers and lifestyle — what’s pleasantly surprising and what needs adjustment.

North Macedonia is among the most affordable countries in Europe:

• Coffee: from €1–1.2
• Lunch at a café: around €6–8
• One-bedroom apartment rental in Skopje: from €250–350/month
• Taxis are widely available and inexpensive: a short ride within the city costs €2–4 — a great alternative to public transport.

A major bonus — high-quality food.
Markets offer a rich variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy, and meats. Seasonal produce is especially affordable: summer brings tomatoes, peaches, and watermelons straight from the farm; autumn brings grapes and plums. The quality and taste are excellent, with friendly prices to match.

What requires some flexibility:

• Public transport exists but isn’t always reliable. Intercity buses run, but not frequently — especially on weekends.
• Within cities, taxis or walking — especially downtown — are often the best options.

Bottom line: Living here is about smart budgeting and simple pleasures, especially if you value warm weather, natural food, and a relaxed rhythm. Ideal for those looking for a calm, stable environment rather than a fast-paced metropolis.

3. Language and Communication: A Soft Landing — Especially for Slavic Speakers

How easy is it to connect and be understood?

The good news: there’s barely a language barrier.

• Young people, business professionals, and service staff speak good English — communication is easy.
• Thanks to linguistic similarities, knowing Russian, Bulgarian, or Serbian makes understanding Macedonian much easier. Many words are familiar, and conversations flow smoothly.
• Locals are welcoming, patient, and willing to help — even if they’re not fluent in your language.

Things to keep in mind:

• In government institutions, Macedonian is the official language — standard for any country.
• Official documents are in Macedonian only, so it’s helpful to have a consultant or interpreter at the beginning, especially when dealing with forms and applications.

No worries:
With our support — and even basic knowledge of any Slavic language — you’ll feel confident quickly. And essential everyday phrases? You can learn them in your first week.

Conclusion:
Macedonia is a friendly and easy-to-navigate country, where language won't be a barrier. All you need is openness — and we’ll handle the formalities.

4. Legalization and Business: Doable — But Not Instant

Pros:

• The most popular path to residency is through starting a business (LLC or Sole Proprietorship).
• The process typically takes 60 to 90 days if done correctly.
• Urban Consult guides you through every step — from registration to receiving your ID card.

Challenges:

• Residency through property purchase is not an option.
• Employment is possible but challenging — local companies rarely hire foreigners unless it’s their own business.
• In recent years, banks have tightened controls, making account opening harder — particularly for citizens of Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus.

Bottom line:
Legal residency is transparent and achievable — but requires guidance and proper setup.

5. Local Culture: Warm People, Respect for Personal Space

What to expect socially and culturally:

Pros:

• Locals are friendly and open to dialogue.
• There is virtually no aggression or xenophobia.
• The Balkan mindset is familiar to Eastern Europeans — with a focus on family, freedom, and social connection.

Things to be aware of:

• Administrative processes can be slow — “Balkan style” requires some patience.
• Without local support, navigating the system can be tough — that’s why having a consultant is key.

Conclusion:
The social and cultural atmosphere is welcoming — if you’re ready to embrace the local rhythm and let go of unrealistic expectations.

Final Thoughts

North Macedonia isn’t perfect — and that’s its charm.
It’s a place where things are real: the nature, the people, the opportunities, and the occasional obstacles.

It’s ideal for:
✔ Those seeking a peaceful lifestyle
✔ Entrepreneurs looking to start a business close to the EU
✔ People who value honesty, simplicity, and authenticity

At Urban Consult, we’re here to guide you — with care, expertise, and full understanding of the local context.

Contact us — and let’s find out if North Macedonia is the right fit for you.