By the end of this article, you’ll understand why North Macedonia stands out for investor visas and citizenship by investment, how to apply, what sets its program apart from other European schemes, and the benefits you can unlock.

Why North Macedonia? A Strategic Investment Choice

North Macedonia combines affordability with EU-candidate status, making it a gateway to Southeast Europe.

Strategic Location and Market Access

Situated at the crossroads of the Balkans, North Macedonia offers rapid access to EU markets, the Western Balkans, and the Middle East.

Competitive Operating Costs

• Corporate tax rate: 10% (European Commission’s Taxation Trends report)
• Personal income tax: 10% (KPMG’s personal income tax rates table for North Macedonia)
• Office rent in Skopje is up to 50% lower than in many EU capitals, according to JLL’s Southeast Europe office market trends

Skilled Workforce and Sector Opportunities

The government invests in technology and vocational training programs that develop talent for the ICT, automotive components, food processing, and renewable energy industries, as detailed in the European Training Foundation’s overview of North Macedonia’s vocational education initiatives.

Understanding Investor Visas vs. Citizenship by Investment

North Macedonia offers two distinct routes for foreign capital and family relocation:

1. Investor Visa (Temporary Residence Permit)
   The Global Citizen Solutions’ guide to North Macedonia’s investor visa requirements outlines a pathway that includes a €200,000 minimum investment in a government-approved fund, family inclusion for spouse and children under 18 (additional fees apply), and no residency requirement before or after approval.

2. Citizenship by Investment (New Program, 1,000-Applicant Cap)
   Launched in 2022, North Macedonia’s citizenship by investment program is strictly limited to 1,000 applicants, with full citizenship granted in under six months and rigorous source-of-funds due diligence, as reported by Investment Migration Insider.

Investment Requirements and Application Process

Applicants can expect a streamlined process taking approximately 3–4 months from initial submission to residence permit issuance.

Step-by-Step Application

1. Select an authorized government fund.
2. Submit required documents: passport copy, proof of €200,000 investment, police clearance certificate, and bank statements showing source of funds.
3. Undergo due diligence, which may include interviews.
4. Receive approval and your residence card.

Due Diligence and Transparency

The Fund for Innovations and Technology Development oversees each application to ensure legal compliance, as detailed on the official FITO website.

Family Inclusion

Spouse and minor children can apply alongside the primary applicant, with fees calculated per additional family member.

How North Macedonia Compares in Europe

North Macedonia’s program ranks among the most accessible on the continent:

• Minimum investment: €200,000 (Europe’s lowest)
• No prior residence required (unlike some other European schemes)
• Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 119 countries, including the Schengen Area and Russia, according to the Henley Passport Index.

Taxation and Long-Term Advantages

North Macedonia’s tax regime offers significant benefits for new investors and citizens:

• Flat corporate tax rate of 10% (PwC’s overview of North Macedonia’s corporate tax rate)
• No wealth or inheritance tax, according to the Deloitte worldwide inheritance tax guide
• A network of double tax-treaty agreements with over 50 countries, listed in the UN Treaty Collection

“North Macedonia’s low tax rates and strategic treaties create an optimal environment for global entrepreneurs.” – Dr. Ana Petrova, International Tax Expert

Your Next Move: Seizing the Opportunity

North Macedonia’s investor visa and citizenship by investment options deliver fast access to Europe, a favorable tax climate, and excellent living costs. With only 1,000 citizenship spots available and the lowest investment threshold in Europe, now is the moment to act.

Embark on your application today and secure a future in the heart of the Balkans.