Volunteering is an excellent way to make a positive impact on your community, and volunteering abroad can provide you with unique cultural experiences and new skills.

The Macedonian law permits foreign nationals to volunteer in the country and obtain a temporary residence permit. However, there are specific requirements you must meet to qualify for this permit. It is crucial to be well-informed and prepared for the procedure to ensure a successful outcome.

Before applying for a residence permit in Macedonia based on volunteering, it is essential to understand that you must first be engaged by a registered non-governmental organization within the country. Namely, the non-governmental organization must be registered as an entity according to Macedonian legislation and must have its headquarters in the Republic of Macedonia. Fortunately, there are numerous non-governmental organizations in Macedonia that operate in various fields, providing ample opportunities to find one that aligns with your interests and abilities.

It is crucial to note that obtaining consent for volunteering from the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy is a mandatory step before starting the procedure for obtaining a residence permit as a volunteer. Without such consent, you will not be able to proceed with the process before the Ministry of Interior, which is competent for issuing the residence permit. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary approval from the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy before continuing with the procedure. Failure to secure this consent will result in a delay or prevent you from obtaining a residence permit as a volunteer in Macedonia.

In addition, you should keep in mind that volunteering in the Republic of North Macedonia is not considered paid work, so for these reasons you cannot receive monetary compensation for your services as a volunteer.

It’s worth noting that the residence permit for volunteering in Macedonia is typically issued for a maximum period of one year, with the possibility of extension. Additionally, if you have obtained a temporary residence permit as a volunteer, your immediate family members are eligible to apply for a residence permit through family reunification. This means that volunteering can be a great way not only to regulate your residence in Macedonia, but also to facilitate your family’s residence.

Obtaining a residence permit for volunteering in Macedonia can be a complex process, as it requires going through two stages and dealing with two different ministries. To simplify the process and save time and money, it’s advisable to seek legal assistance from an attorney. With the help of an attorney, you are able to ensure the protection of your rights and interests during the whole process. This will help you to navigate the procedure efficiently and therefore to achieve a positive outcome.