Macedonia is one of the attractive tourist destinations for travelers from Russia. The Balkans are generally loved by tourists for their color and hospitality, and the lack of a visa regime increases interest in visiting this country.
Visa for a tourist trip to Macedonia
Since 2008, Macedonia and Russia adhere to mutual agreements on the abolition of the visa regime. In 2016, these conditions of entry into Macedonia remained the same and the agreement was extended for another year. According to the assurances of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Macedonia, they plan to adhere to this practice in the future. In addition to eliminating the need for a visa, since 2012 Macedonia does not require documents such as an invitation or a tourist voucher. Thus, if a visa-free entry to the territory of Macedonia was previously impossible, today a tourist can travel to this country with only a passport and insurance. However, it is important to note that such a trip can last no more than 90 days (which are considered for every six months from the moment of the first entry into the country). Visits to the country for a longer period, as well as for other purposes (for example, to study or work) require an appropriate visa.
Tourist and guest visa and entry rules for Macedonia on them
For those travelers who travel to Macedonia and plan to spend more than three months there, it is necessary to apply for a tourist visa. This can be done at the Embassy of Macedonia, in the consular department. You can find him in Moscow, at ul. Dmitry Ulyanov, d.16, building 2
To apply for a visa, prepare:
- The original and a copy of the passport.
- The original and a copy of the insurance policy.
- A photograph of 30 × 40, preferably color.
- A travel voucher or any document confirming that it was you who made the hotel room in Macedonia from your bank account for the duration of your stay in the country.
- Application form, which can be found on the website of the embassy.
It is worth noting that the provision of medical insurance is not necessary, but its presence greatly increases the chances of obtaining a visa.
You can also get a guest visa, the package of documents differs only in that instead of a voucher or confirmation of the hotel’s reservation, you will provide an invitation sent to you from Macedonia.
If the visa is obtained by spouses, one of whom does not work and has no income, it is necessary to provide a marriage certificate and a certificate of employment for the employed spouse. Pensioners must provide a copy of the pension certificate or a sponsorship letter, if any.
Business and student visa to Macedonia for Russians
For those who plan to go to Macedonia for work and whose trip will take more than three months, a work or business visa is required. If you are traveling on a business trip for less than 90 days, you do not need to apply for a visa at all. It is also worth considering that the presence of a business visa does not give the right to work in the country.
To obtain a document you will need:
- Invitation from the host legal entity.
- Insurance policy.
- Travel voucher confirming your hotel reservation.
- Photo size 30 × 40.
- Passport and copy.
- Copy of the passport of a citizen of the Russian Federation.
- Round-trip tickets.
- Profile.
- Certificate of employment in Russia indicating the position, length of service and salary.
- Bank statement, which must contain the required amount for the entire trip.
In order to get a student visa, you will need to take a copy of the student card, request a letter from the dean’s office in advance, and sponsorship letter (if available).
Conditions of entry to Macedonia: terms and cost of applying for a visa
When submitting documents, an interview is conducted with the consul. He may request additional documents. The visa response deadline does not exceed three business days.
To apply for a visa, you need to pay a consular fee of 12 euros. This contribution is accepted in euros and in no other currency. You can pay it directly at the consulate when submitting documents.
Schengen visa to Macedonia
The conditions of visa-free entry into the country greatly facilitate its visit. However, if you need to stay longer than 90 days, you will have to apply for a visa. Moreover, if a tourist has a valid Schengen visa, you can enter Macedonia without any other documents. It is only important that the Schengen be either double or multiple and be valid for all countries of this agreement. According to its terms, it is important that it be valid for at least 5 days after the planned departure from Macedonia.
Features of entry into Macedonia with children
The conditions for entering Macedonia for children do not differ in particular difficulties, but we note a number of nuances.
So, for example, if the children are entered in the parent's passport, the consular fee if they need a visa is not charged. Also, if you need a guest or tourist visa, then for a child to receive it, in addition to all other documents, a copy of the birth certificate is required.
If a child under the age of 17 travels alone or accompanied by third parties (that is, not parents and legal guardians), they need to have an original and a copy of a notarized power of attorney to export the child.
Customs clearance features
Special conditions of entry into Macedonia prohibit the transport of drugs and weapons, gold bullion and objects of art. Cigarettes can hold 200 pieces, and only a liter of alcohol. Foreign currency can be transported without restrictions, but local currency cannot be exported or imported at all.
Clothing, cosmetics and perfumes, medicines can be introduced in such an amount that is needed for personal needs. If you bring household appliances as a gift to Macedonia, you will have to pay a fee for it, and if you carry some kind of device for your use, write it in the declaration - it should also be in your luggage when you leave. The same goes for gold and precious metals.
Macedonia - a country with beautiful nature, hospitable people, delicious cuisine and interesting sights - attracts more and more tourists. Despite the lack of access to the sea, this Balkan state has great tourism potential. BUT visa-free regime only adds to this country's popularity.