Thinking about relocating to a new country can feel overwhelming especially when money is tight. But if you’re looking for a beautiful, affordable place to live in Europe, North Macedonia might just be your ideal destination.
North Macedonia offers stunning nature, low cost of living, friendly locals, and a relaxed lifestyle. Even better, it’s not as expensive to move there as you might think.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top 5 cheapest ways to relocate to North Macedonia, so you can make your move without draining your bank account.
Why Consider Moving to North Macedonia?
Before we dive into the most affordable ways to get there, let’s look at why so many expats are choosing North Macedonia:
Low Cost of Living – Rent, food, utilities, and transportation are significantly cheaper than in Western Europe or North America.
Mild Climate – Enjoy four distinct seasons with warm summers and snowy winters.
Friendly Locals – Macedonians are known for their hospitality and warmth.
Rich History & Culture – From ancient ruins to traditional music, there’s always something to explore.
EU Candidate Status – Though not yet in the EU, North Macedonia is moving closer, which adds long-term appeal for relocation.
Now that you know the “why,” let’s look at the top 5 cheapest ways to actually relocate to North Macedonia.
1. Apply for a Temporary Residency Through a Lease Agreement
If you want a budget-friendly way to start your new life in North Macedonia, renting a place and applying for temporary residency is one of the most common methods.
How It Works:
Foreigners can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (valid for up to 1 year and renewable) by showing:
A signed rental contract with a local property owner
Proof of financial means (usually a bank statement)
Local police registration
Background check and medical exam
Why It’s Cheap:
- Rent in cities like Skopje, Bitola, or Ohrid starts at around €150–€300/month.
- You don’t need to buy property or invest large sums.
- You can live comfortably on €500–€800/month, including rent and bills.
2. Use a Student Visa to Study and Live Cheaply
Are you under 35 and open to learning something new? A student visa might be the cheapest long-term ticket to North Macedonia.
What You’ll Need:
- Acceptance into a recognized Macedonian university or language school
- Proof of funds to cover living expenses
- Health insurance
- Clean criminal record
Why It’s Budget-Friendly:
- Tuition fees are extremely low, some programs cost under €1,000 per year.
- Student housing or shared rentals can cost as little as €100–€200/month.
- Student visa holders are often allowed to stay longer and can sometimes work part-time.
3. Start a Sole Proprietorship (Minimum Investment Needed)
If you’re a freelancer, remote worker, or small business owner, this one’s for you.
North Macedonia allows foreigners to register as sole proprietors (samovrabotuvanje) a very low-cost way to become self-employed and stay legally.
Steps to Follow:
- Register your sole proprietorship at the Central Registry.
- Get a Macedonian tax number and open a local bank account.
- Apply for temporary residency as a business owner.
Costs Involved:
Initial setup: around €100–€200 for paperwork and taxes.
Monthly contributions for health and pension: about €80–€100.
Accounting services: optional, but available for cheap.
Bonus:
This route shows “economic activity,” which can make your residency more sustainable.
You can work with clients internationally while legally residing in North Macedonia.
4. Relocate With Remote Work or Digital Nomad Income
Although North Macedonia doesn’t yet offer a formal Digital Nomad Visa, many remote workers relocate under a temporary residency permit similar to option #1 with a twist.
How It Works:
- Rent a property and register with the local police.
- Show proof of remote income or freelance work from outside Macedonia.
- Apply for residency as a financially self-sufficient person.
Pros:
No need to find local employment.
Internet is reliable and fast (especially in Skopje and Ohrid).
You can live well on less than €1,000/month.
5. Join a Volunteer or Cultural Exchange Program
Want a short-term and super cheap way to test out life in Macedonia? Consider joining a volunteer program.
Options Include:
Workaway or HelpX: Exchange work for food and accommodation.
WWOOF: Volunteer on organic farms.
Erasmus+: European Union programs that often include Macedonia.
Final Thoughts
Relocating abroad doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With the right planning and one of these top 5 cheapest ways to relocate to North Macedonia, you can start your new life with confidence and keep your savings intact.
Whether you’re a remote worker, student, retiree, or someone just seeking a slower, more affordable pace of life, North Macedonia offers big value for small budgets.
