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Diaspora Services

For Companies (Business Owners Abroad)

Are you a Macedonian living abroad who wants to do business in or with Macedonia? Below is information on procedures for companies, from starting a new business to ongoing obligations, along with key institutional contacts.

Starting a Business in North Macedonia

The central authority for registering companies is the Central Registry of Macedonia. This includes forming a limited liability company, joint-stock company, sole proprietorship, etc. The Central Registry offers an online system for e-registration of certain types of companies, which can be used by those with digital certificates. However, many diaspora entrepreneurs prefer to engage a local lawyer or notary to handle the registration process. Basic steps include: choosing a unique company name, preparing incorporation documents (which a notary in Macedonia must notarize), and registering with the Central Registry. The Central Registry’s customer care can guide you on online registration and required documents.

Central Registry

Once a company is formed, it must register with the Public Revenue Office (for tax ID and VAT if applicable) and with social insurance funds if hiring employees. Many of these steps are handled automatically or via an accountant in Macedonia. As a non-resident owner, you may need to appoint an accountant or person in Macedonia to file documents on your behalf. (Some procedures have e-services, e.g. you can obtain a company tax number through the online system after business registration.)

Public Revenue Office of the Republic of Macedonia – Headquarters
Employment Agency (for registering employees)

Running a Business: Reporting and Compliance

To operate a company, you will need a local bank account in Macedonia. Most banks require the owner or an authorized representative to open the account in person (some allow power of attorney). Once set up, you can use e-banking from abroad.

Companies in Macedonia must file annual financial statements and regular tax reports (monthly, quarterly for VAT, etc.). Filings can be done online. The e-Tax system of the Public Revenue Office allows electronic submission of tax returns, and the Central Registry has an e-filing system for annual accounts. To use these, your company will need to obtain digital certificates for the authorized persons (usually your accountant or manager in Macedonia). Many diaspora-owned businesses hire local accounting firms to manage compliance.

Public Revenue Office of the Republic of Macedonia – Headquarters (for tax filing support)
Central Registry (for annual accounts filing)

Depending on your business activity, you might need additional licenses (e.g., import/export license, craft license, etc.). These are issued by various ministries or agencies (e.g., Ministry of Economy for trade licenses). Check the national e-Services Portal for specific services by sector, or consult a business lawyer if unsure. Many permit applications are now centralized on the portal uslugi.gov.mk, which hosts information on ~127 electronic services across 28 institutions. You can search by category (for companies) to see if any digital service applies to your need.

If your company will import goods or equipment, the Customs Administration has procedures for obtaining a EORI number and using the EXIM system for import/export licenses. The EXIM online system is used for applying for import/export permits. They also have regional offices at major border points for on-ground assistance.

Customs Administration of the Republic of Macedonia

Investment and Incentives

This is the official government investment promotion agency, dedicated to assisting foreign investors and diaspora investors. They provide information on investment opportunities, incentives (such as tax breaks or grants for certain industries), and can act as a facilitator between you and other government bodies. If you are a diaspora member looking to invest in a business or project in Macedonia, contacting Invest North Macedonia is highly recommended. They can guide you through available programs and connect you with local partners or municipal authorities.

Invest North Macedonia (Agency for Foreign Investments and Export Promotion)

Macedonia has free economic zones that offer benefits for companies (like tax holidays and customs exemptions). Diaspora entrepreneurs can take advantage of these if their projects qualify. Contacting the Directorate for TIDZ can provide specifics (via Invest North Macedonia for introductions).

Directorate for Technological Industrial Development Zones (DTIDZ)

Keep an eye on programs by the government or international donors aimed at diaspora investments or SME support. For instance, there are sometimes grants for startups or co-investment funds that diaspora can access. Macedonia2025 also runs programs to connect diaspora investors with opportunities.

Other Business Services

Almost any business procedure in Macedonia can be handled by an appointed person (lawyer, consultant, or even a family member) if you provide a notarized Power of Attorney (PoA). Many Macedonians abroad use PoAs so that someone in Macedonia can represent them at institutions. A PoA must be notarized; you can do this at a Macedonian embassy/consulate (which will draft it in Macedonian and verify your signature) so that it is directly usable in Macedonia.

Contact your nearest embassy/consulate for a PoA notarization appointment.


Ensure your company data is up to date in the Central Registry (any changes of address, ownership, etc., must be filed). Annual tasks include renewing business licenses (for specific activities), and paying any applicable fees (e.g., the annual fee for the Central Registry register). Many of these can be managed online or by your representative. Contact the Central Registry for guidance on company changes; local municipal offices for any local permits.

Central Registry

Diaspora business owners can also reach out to Macedonian Chambers of Commerce or diaspora business networks for support. Organizations like Macedonia2025 facilitate connections between diaspora professionals and local opportunities.

Macedonia2025