Foreign travel advice

North Macedonia

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in North Macedonia

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in North Macedonia.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Terrorists may target religious sites, including churches.

The authorities in North Macedonia have carried out raids against suspected terrorists. There’s a risk of terrorist attacks inspired by extremist ideology in North Macedonia.

Political situation

Occasional protests occur in North Macedonia which can cause disruption. Elections are scheduled to take place in April and May which could increase the frequency of these. You should check local media for the latest information, be vigilant, and avoid large crowds and gatherings.

If there is civil disorder, stay indoors when possible, especially after dark, and avoid crowds and demonstrations.

Crime

Attacks against foreigners are extremely rare.

Organised criminal groups are active, particularly in northern areas near the border with Kosovo.

There are occasional shooting incidents, including in Skopje, but they are not targeted at foreigners. People sometimes fire guns when celebrating.

Protecting your belongings

There have been several cases of pickpocketing by gangs of children and bag snatches in the main shopping and entertainment areas late at night. Foreign nationals appear to have been specifically targeted. Make sure your personal possessions are secure.

Keep your passport in a secure place and carry a copy of your passport photo page for identification. If your passport is lost or stolen, report it to the local police and cancel it immediately.

Laws and cultural differences

Using cameras and binoculars in secure areas

It is illegal to take photographs of any military installation or site of government or strategic importance.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual relationships are legal, but people in North Macedonia are not particularly open about them. LGBT+ bars and restaurants are not common.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Money

British banks do not exchange Macedonian denars, so exchange any unwanted denars before you leave. You should only change money through banks or official exchanges and not through street dealers. You will not be able to exchange Scottish and Northern Irish banknotes.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety

Lakes Ohrid, Prespa and Dojran are suitable for swimming and recreation, according to the North Macedonian State Sanitary and Health Inspectorate.

However, the authorities rate the rivers Vardar and Treska and Lake Treska as unsuitable for swimming.

Transport risks

Local travel

If you are travelling near the border with Kosovo, you should only travel on main roads and during daylight hours.

Lorries crossing the North Macedonia border may be subject to long delays. Make sure you have the proper customs documentation before you arrive at the border.

Between November and February, Skopje and surrounding areas can experience thick fog. There can be flight delays and diversions if fog affects visibility at Skopje airport.

You can find flight information on the Skopje International Airport website.

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in North Macedonia, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC guide.

Licences and permits

You need either a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) or a valid UK driving licence to drive in North Macedonia. The 1949 IDP is not accepted any more. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. You can buy an IDP in person from some UK post offices – find your nearest post office branch that offers this service.

Driving a British car in North Macedonia

If you are taking your own car, you must have:

  • vehicle registration
  • ownership documents
  • valid insurance to drive in North Macedonia. Check your insurance covers you to drive in North Macedonia and you are able to show proof to border officials. A green card might be helpful to demonstrate you have the correct cover.

Driving regulations

Road conditions and driving standards vary widely. Driving styles differ significantly from those in UK. There are frequent accidents. Take care at all times while driving or on foot.

If you have an accident, do not move your vehicle until the police record the incident and allow you to do so. In case of emergency, contact:

  • police: 192
  • ambulance: 194

  • roadside assistance: 196

The legal drink drive limit in North Macedonia is lower than in some parts of the UK. The blood alcohol limit is 50 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, or 0.5 milligrammes per millilitre. If you drink and drive you risk a heavy fine and the possibility of arrest. There is a policy of zero tolerance for professional (eg HGV) drivers.

You can be fined for offences including (but not limited to):

  • not using side lights or dipped headlights, including during the day
  • using a mobile phone while driving
  • not wearing a seatbelt, as both a driver and a passenger
  • not having all the required safety equipment, including snow chains where conditions require them

When travelling on major roads, you can pay the toll fare in Macedonian denars or in euros by using cash or a credit card.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Forest fires

Forest fires can happen during summer months. Check on the outbreak of fires with local media and follow any instructions from local authorities.

In the summer months there may be bans on movement in forest areas to help prevent fires. Follow advice from local authorities. If you ignore the ban, you may get a fine.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes occasionally occur. You should familiarise yourself with steps to take in the event of further seismic shocks.