North Macedonia
Summary
COVID-19 entry restrictions for North Macedonia
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for North Macedonia’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
Travelling from and returning to the UK
Check what you must do to travel abroad and return to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
ItIf you’re planning travel to North Macedonia, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides appropriatesufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
For information about COVID-19 vaccines, see the Coronavirus page.
There is a general threat from terrorism. There may be increased security in place over the festive period, including at Christmas markets and other major events that might attract large crowds. You should remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local authorities.
On 14 February 2019, the UK government was informed that the Republic of Macedonia was henceforth known as the Republic of North Macedonia.
Most visits to North Macedonia are trouble-free. Occasional acts of criminal violence occur, although foreigners are not generally targeted.
Take particular care if you travel to northern areas of the country near the border with Kosovo. See Crime and Local travel
Political rallies and demonstrations could occur in major cities. See Political situation
Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in North Macedonia. See Terrorism
High levels of air pollution in cities, especially in winter, can affect public health. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions may be especially affected. You can find further information and advice on air quality on the World Health Organization (WHO) website. Keep up to date with local information and seek medical advice on appropriate precautions.
Mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus are present. See Health
Earthquakes occasionally occur. See Natural disasters
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
Update history
2025-06-04 17:12
Updated information on the risks of being involved with illegal drugs, including cannabis. This includes risk of arrest if you are found carrying drugs when transiting through the airport (‘Safety and security’ page).
2025-06-04 15:00
Updated information on the risks of being involved with illegal drugs, including cannabis. This includes risk of arrest if you are found carrying drugs when transiting through the airport (‘Safety and security’ page).
2025-02-05 10:28
Updated information about the risks of terrorism in North Macedonia (‘Safety and security’ page).
2024-08-14 09:41
Updated advice on wildfire risks (‘Safety and Security’ page).
2024-07-23 11:14
Updated information on political situation (‘Safety and security’ page).
2024-07-03 12:21
This travel advice was reviewed for style and accuracy.
2024-01-29 16:14
Information about a possible increase in protests and political party campaigning as North Macedonia approaches it’s Presidential and Parliamentary elections (‘Safety and security’ page).
2023-11-21 17:03
Updated assessment that terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in North Macedonia (‘Safety and security’ page).
2023-11-21 12:01
Removal of information on the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifier between North Macedonia and England.
2023-11-17 15:23
Information on the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifier between North Macedonia and England (‘Warnings and insurance’ page).
2023-08-14 16:49
This travel advice has been rewritten to make it easier to read and understand.
2023-07-19 15:44
Information about the decreased terrorism risks to British nationals in North Macedonia (‘Summary’ and ‘Terrorism’ pages).
2023-06-22 10:34
Information about the global terrorism risks to British nationals abroad on all FCDO travel advice pages.
2022-12-23 18:05
Update information about recent bomb threats in North Macedonia; you should follow the directions of the local authorities (See ‘Terrorism’ page)
2022-07-07 18:43
Update warning about major demonstrations announced to take place in Skopje; you should check local media for the latest information, remain vigilant and avoid any demonstrations (‘Safety and security – Political situation page)
2022-05-03 16:38
Update to changes to COVID measures (‘Coronavirus’ page)