On March 02, 2022, the Government of the Republic of North Macedonia decided to grant temporary protection for humanitarian reasons to Ukrainian citizens. 

Who is covered by temporary protection?

Citizens of Ukraine and their family members who:

A) enter the territory of North Macedonia due to war, threat to life, or escalation of hostilities against civilians;

B) are in the territory of North Macedonia and cannot return to the territory of Ukraine due to war, threat to life, or escalation of hostilities against the civilian population.

What documents are required to cross the border?

North Macedonia is not an EU member state, but it has simplified the requirements for entering its territory for Ukrainian citizens as much as possible. Thus, you can cross the border without a foreign passport. All you need is a national identity document, such as a Ukrainian passport or birth certificate.

If you are crossing the border with a minor, you should have documents confirming your relationship with the minor (birth certificate, parental consent to accompany and depart the child).

Obtaining temporary protection

In order to obtain temporary protection in North Macedonia, you need to apply to the Ministry of the Interior - Sector for Foreigners (Sector za stranci) of the Ministry of the Interior in Skopje (address: 9 Goce Delcev Street, MTV Building, 9th floor, room 927), or to an inspector for foreigners at police stations in other cities for a temporary residence permit for humanitarian reasons.

How long is temporary protection granted for?

The EU Council has extended temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine until 04.03.2025.

In case of refugee status, the period of stay in the country is set at 3 years. At the same time, we recommend applying for temporary protection, as this procedure is simpler and allows you to return to Ukraine at any time without hindrance.

Accommodation

After arriving in North Macedonia, one of the first things you will need to do is to find accommodation. Of course, you can organize this process yourself or stay with friends or relatives.

If you do not have a place to live, we recommend that you contact the head of the community of Ukrainians in the Republic of North Macedonia (Facebook page) or the Red Cross branch at your place of residence (contacts can be found at the link).

Medical care

After obtaining a residence permit for humanitarian reasons, you will be entitled to state medical care.

Contacts of state medical institutions can be found at the following link (tab "Institutions").

Employment

A humanitarian residence permit gives you the right to work without obtaining a special permit.

Useful links:

Website of the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of North Macedonia

Facebook page of the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of North Macedonia

Information portal "International Headquarters for Assistance to Ukrainians", where you can get information on staying abroad