How to Open an LLC in North Macedonia as a Foreigner — Step-by-Step Guide
[DRAFT — please review and edit before publishing. Facts cited reflect commonly published information about North Macedonian company law as of 2026, but the lawyer should verify all figures, timelines, and procedural details before this goes live.]
North Macedonia is one of the most accessible markets in the Western Balkans for foreign investors. A 10% flat corporate tax, no restrictions on full foreign ownership, and a registration process that can be completed in under two weeks make it a popular choice for entrepreneurs setting up a regional base. This guide walks through what foreign founders actually need to register a limited liability company (LLC) — known locally as a DOO (multi-owner) or DOOEL (single-owner).
Why an LLC?
The LLC is the default vehicle for small and mid-sized businesses in North Macedonia. Owners are not personally liable for company debts beyond their contributed capital, accounting requirements are lighter than for joint-stock companies, and there is no requirement that any founder or director be a North Macedonian citizen or resident.
Step 1: Decide on the Basic Structure
Before filing anything, decide on:
Company name — must be unique. Availability can be checked at the Central Registry of the Republic of North Macedonia (Централен регистар).
Founders — one or more individuals or legal entities, any nationality. A single-owner LLC is called a DOOEL.
Registered address in North Macedonia — can be a rented office or a virtual office.
Business activities (NACE codes) — the primary activity plus any secondary activities the company plans to pursue.
Director (Управител) — at least one. Can be a foreign citizen residing abroad.
Step 2: Minimum Capital
The statutory minimum share capital for a DOO/DOOEL is €5,000, contributed in EUR or denar equivalent. The capital can be paid in cash to a temporary deposit account opened for the company, or contributed in kind (property, equipment, IP) with a certified valuation.
The capital does not need to remain frozen — once the company is registered, it can be used for operating expenses immediately.
Step 3: Required Documents
For foreign founders, the document package usually includes:
Passport copy (notarized and apostilled) for individual founders
Certificate of good standing and articles of incorporation for corporate founders (apostilled and translated into Macedonian by a sworn court translator)
Decision to establish the company (act of foundation)
Articles of association
Specimen signatures of the director(s) — notarized
Proof of paid-in capital from the temporary bank account
Lease or ownership document for the registered office
NACE code selection
If a founder cannot be physically present in North Macedonia, the entire process can be handled by power of attorney granted to a local lawyer.
Step 4: Filing with the Central Registry
The application is submitted electronically through the One-Stop-Shop system operated by the Central Registry. The standard processing time is 3 to 5 business days. The fee is modest — typically under €100 in state charges.
Once approved, the company receives:
Registration certificate (with the unique company ID — ЕМБС)
Tax identification number (ЕДБ)
Customs number (if applicable)
Step 5: Post-Registration Steps
Registration is just the beginning. Before the company can operate, several follow-up actions are needed:
Open a permanent business bank account — required to receive payments and pay suppliers. Most banks require an in-person visit for KYC, though some accept a power of attorney.
Register for VAT if turnover is expected to exceed the threshold (currently around €33,000/year), or voluntarily for B2B clients.
Register employees with the Employment Service Agency and the Pension Fund if hiring.
Engage an accountant — monthly bookkeeping and tax filings are mandatory for all companies, even with no activity.
Apply for a temporary residence permit if the director intends to live in North Macedonia. Owning a company is a recognized basis for residence.
Timeline at a Glance
Week 1: Document preparation, notarization, apostille (in the founder's home country)
Week 2: Document translation, capital deposit, filing
Week 2–3: Registration approved; bank account, tax setup, accountant engaged
Most foreign-owned LLCs are fully operational within 2 to 3 weeks of the first document being prepared.
Common Pitfalls
Untranslated documents — every foreign document must be translated by a court-certified translator. Standard certified translations from abroad are not accepted.
Wrong NACE codes — adding activities later is possible but requires another Registry filing and fees. Pick broad codes up front.
Underestimating accounting compliance — even dormant companies must file monthly returns.
Director residency assumption — many founders assume the director must be a resident. Not true, but practical matters (signing documents at notaries, opening bank accounts) often require physical presence at least once.
How We Help
Law Office Nikolovski handles end-to-end company formation for foreign investors. We act under power of attorney so founders typically do not need to travel to North Macedonia at any point. Our service includes drafting the act of foundation and articles of association, coordinating notarizations and translations, filing with the Central Registry, opening the bank account, and connecting clients with vetted local accountants.
For a tailored timeline and quote based on your specific structure, schedule a free consultation.