Your Path to Company Registration in North Macedonia
Navigate the complexities of business setup with confidence. From choosing the right entity to full compliance, we simplify the legal process with clear guidance and expert support.
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Choosing Your Legal Entity
Before commencing registration, it's crucial to select the appropriate legal form for your business. The most common types of companies in North Macedonia include:
Limited Liability Company (DOO)
The most popular choice for small and medium-sized businesses. It requires a minimum founding capital of €5,000 (or its equivalent in MKD), which can be paid in cash or in kind. The liability of members is limited to their capital contribution.
Joint Stock Company (AD)
Suitable for larger businesses requiring significant capital, often publicly traded. It has a higher minimum capital requirement (€25,000 for private AD, €50,000 for public AD).
Sole Proprietor (Individual Entrepreneur)
For individuals conducting business activities under their own name. Unlimited liability.
Branch Office (Подружница)
Part of a foreign company, not a separate legal entity.
Representative Office (Претставништво)
Limited to market research and promotional activities, cannot conduct commercial operations.
The Company Registration Process: Step-by-Step
The registration process in North Macedonia is primarily handled by the Central Registry of the Republic of North Macedonia (Централен регистар на Република Северна Македонија).
Company Name Check and Reservation
Action: Check the availability of your desired company name through the Central Registry's online portal.
Details: The name must be unique and not misleading. Once a suitable name is found, it can be reserved for a limited period (usually 30 days).
Preparation of Founding Documents
Action: This is a critical step requiring careful drafting of legal documents.
Details: Limited Liability Company (DOO): Articles of Association (Основачки акт / Статут) for one founder, or Articles of Incorporation (Договор за основање) for multiple founders.
Opening a Temporary Bank Account and Capital Deposit
Action: Open a temporary bank account in a commercial bank in North Macedonia for the purpose of depositing the initial share capital.
Details: The minimum capital for a DOO (€5,000) must be deposited. The bank will issue a certificate of deposit.
Notarization of Documents
Action: All founding documents must be notarized by a public notary in North Macedonia.
Details: The notary verifies the identities of the signatories and the authenticity of the documents.
Submission to the Central Registry
Action: Submit the complete set of notarized documents, along with the bank's capital deposit certificate, to the Central Registry.
Details: The Central Registry reviews the application for completeness and compliance with legal requirements.
Registration and Obtaining Tax Number
Action: Upon approval, the Central Registry issues a Decision for Registration and assigns a Unique Identification Number (ЕДБ).
Details: This number is crucial for all financial and legal operations.
Required Documentation
The exact documents may vary slightly depending on the type of company and the founders (individual vs. legal entity, local vs. foreign).
For Individual Founder(s)
- Valid passport or national ID card (copy and original for verification)
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, if different from ID)
- Notarized Founder's Statement
- Notarized Articles of Association (if single founder) or Articles of Incorporation (if multiple founders)
- Decision for Appointment of Manager(s)
- Bank certificate of deposited share capital
- Proof of registered office (lease agreement, ownership deed)
- Power of Attorney (if applicable)
For Legal Entity Founder(s)
- Extract from the Commercial Register of the parent company (apostilled and translated into Macedonian)
- Resolution of the parent company's competent body to establish a subsidiary in North Macedonia
- Articles of Association/Incorporation of the new Macedonian company
- Decision for Appointment of Manager(s)
- Bank certificate of deposited share capital
- Proof of registered office
- Power of Attorney for the representative handling the registration
- Passport/ID of the authorized representative
Important Notes on Documents
All foreign documents must be apostilled (if the country is a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention) or legalized and officially translated into Macedonian by a certified translator in North Macedonia.
Duration and Timeline
The official process for company registration in North Macedonia is relatively quick, often cited as one of the fastest in the region.
Name Check & Reservation
Less than 1 day
Document Preparation
1-3 business days
Bank Account Opening & Capital Deposit
1 day
Notarization
1 day
Central Registry Submission & Approval
1-3 business days
Total Timeline
Overall Registration (from complete documentation to Central Registry approval): Typically 3-5 business days.
Realistically, from initial consultation to full registration and readiness to operate (including post-registration steps like permanent bank account, seal, and initial VAT/employee registration), the process can take 1-2 weeks.
Costs Involved
The costs for company registration in North Macedonia typically include:
Cost Breakdown
- Central Registry Fees: Relatively low, fixed fees for registration
- Notary Fees: Based on the value of the share capital and the number of documents
- Bank Fees: For opening and maintaining accounts
- Translation and Apostille Fees: For foreign documents
- Legal and Consulting Fees: Fees for engaging lawyers or consultants
- Minimum Share Capital: €5,000 for a DOO (this is a deposit, not a fee)
Get Accurate Pricing
Each registration case is unique. Contact us for a detailed cost breakdown tailored to your specific needs.
AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner) Identification
North Macedonia is committed to combating money laundering and terrorist financing, aligning its regulations with international standards.
Importance of AML and UBO
- Legal Obligation: Companies are legally required to identify and verify their ultimate beneficial owners
- Transparency: Aims to prevent the misuse of legal entities for illicit financial activities
- Risk Mitigation: Helps financial institutions and authorities assess and mitigate risks
UBO Identification Requirements
The Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) is the natural person(s) who ultimately owns or controls a legal entity.
- Full Name and Surname
- Date and Place of Birth
- Nationality
- Residential Address
- Identification Document Details
- Nature and Extent of Beneficial Ownership
Compliance Note
Adherence to AML and UBO regulations is paramount. Failure to comply can result in significant penalties, including fines and legal action.
Why Choose Our Services?
Navigating the intricacies of company registration and compliance in a foreign country can be complex. Our team of experienced legal and business consultants specializes in assisting foreign investors and local entrepreneurs.
Expert Guidance
Comprehensive advice on choosing the right legal entity and understanding local regulations.
Document Preparation
Meticulous drafting and review of all necessary founding documents.
Streamlined Process
Efficient handling of submissions to the Central Registry and coordination with notaries and banks.
Compliance Assurance
Ensuring full adherence to AML, UBO, and other regulatory requirements.
Post-Registration Support
Assistance with opening permanent bank accounts, VAT registration, and initial accounting setup.
Contact Us
Have questions or ready to start your company registration in North Macedonia? Reach out to our experts today.