Official Import Rules
North Macedonia follows EU-aligned pet import requirements. Cats must have a microchip (ISO 11784/11785), a valid rabies vaccination administered at least 21 days before arrival, and an international veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
A rabies titer test (≥0. 5 IU/ml) is required for cats arriving from countries not on the EU Part 1 or Part 2 list.
No import permit is needed for personal pets (up to 5 animals).
Medical Roadmap
Get your cat microchipped (ISO 11784/11785).
Administer rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel.
If required, obtain rabies titer test (≥0.5 IU/ml) at least 30 days after vaccination.
Wait 3 months after blood draw date if titer test is required.
Obtain a veterinary health certificate within 10 days of departure.
Have documentation endorsed by your government veterinary authority.
Present all documents at Skopje Airport customs and veterinary control.
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
No quarantine for pets meeting all requirements.
City & Housing Tips
Skopje is the capital and main city, with an affordable cost of living and growing expat community. Ohrid (lakeside) and Bitola are charming smaller cities. Pet-friendly apartments are commonly available.
Vets & Common Parasites
Skopje has several modern veterinary clinics at affordable prices. English-speaking vets are available. Outside Skopje, veterinary services are more basic. Pet supplies are available in major pet shops and supermarkets.
Find Vets in North MacedoniaExit Rules — Leaving North Macedonia
Exit requirements depend on destination. The Food and Veterinary Agency can issue export certificates. If traveling to the EU, EU pet passport requirements apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — North Macedonia follows EU-aligned rules and is straightforward. No import permit needed, no quarantine, and the process is well-documented. For EU residents with a pet passport, it's especially easy.
Very affordable. Vet care, pet food, and housing costs are among the lowest in Europe. Quality of veterinary care in Skopje is good.
Yes — both borders are accessible by road. For Greece (EU), you'll need full EU pet entry documentation. For Serbia, similar requirements apply as North Macedonia. Always carry your pet's health records when crossing borders.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in North Macedonia. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.
The rabies titer test for North Macedonia takes time — blood must be drawn at least 30 days after vaccination, and lab results take 2–3 weeks. Don't leave this to the last minute.
Have you moved to North Macedonia with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.