Residence & citizenship
North Macedonian Permanent Residence
Long-term settlement for foreigners who have lawfully resided in North Macedonia on temporary residence for a qualifying period.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The qualifying residence period (reported as 5 years) and the exact statutory conditions are from secondary sources and should be confirmed against the Law on Foreigners and the Ministry of Interior.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official North Macedonia government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Permanent residence permit
- Route type
- Settlement / long-term residence
- Qualifying residence
- Continuous lawful temporary residence for a set period (reported 5 years)
- Confirm the exact period and conditions with the Ministry of Interior
- Issuing body
- Ministry of Interior
- Qualifying period
- 5 years' continuous temporary residence
- Immediately before the application is submitted
- Where to apply
- Ministry of the Interior (Foreigners / regional office)
- Basis
- Granted after long-term lawful residence, subject to meeting all conditions
Who it is for
- Foreigners who have held temporary residence continuously for the qualifying period
- Long-term residents intending to settle permanently
Requirements
- Qualifying period of continuous lawful temporary residence
- Stable and regular means of subsistence and secured accommodation
- Clean legal record; no threat to public order or national security
- Proficiency in the Macedonian language (as required)
How to apply
- Apply to the Ministry of Interior with proof of qualifying residence and supporting documents
Documents you may need
- Valid passport
- Proof of five years' continuous temporary residence
- Evidence of stable income or means of support
- Proof of secured accommodation
- Valid health insurance
- Criminal record certificate
- Evidence of your ability to communicate in Macedonian
Frequently asked questions
Yes. You generally need five years of continuous temporary residence in North Macedonia, immediately before you apply, to qualify for permanent residence.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related North Macedonian visas
- SETTLEMENTCITIZENSHIPLONG-TERM RESIDENCECitizenship by NaturalisationFor foreigners acquiring North Macedonian citizenship after long-term lawful residence under the Law on Citizenship.View visa details
- SETTLEMENTCITIZENSHIPINVESTMENTCitizenship by InvestmentAn exceptional naturalisation route for foreigners who make a qualifying investment of special economic interest to North Macedonia.View visa details
