Is North Macedonia Safe? A Complete 2026 Safety Guide for International Students

Is North Macedonia a Safe Country? 2026 Safety Guide for International Students

One of the most important questions students and their families ask when considering studying, living or staying in North Macedonia is whether the country is safe.

For students coming from abroad, especially from Turkey, issues such as street safety, police controls, crime rates, surveillance cameras and accommodation security are particularly important.

So, is North Macedonia really a safe country? How effective are police controls? Are there security cameras in cities? Can students comfortably go out at night?

In this article, we explore everything you need to know about North Macedonia's population, crime statistics, police services, the Safe City camera system, apartment security and everyday student life.

1. Population and General Safety in North Macedonia

North Macedonia is a country located in Southeastern Europe and is one of the smaller countries in the Balkans in terms of population.

According to the State Statistical Office of North Macedonia, the estimated population was 1,819,074 as of 31 December 2025.

Skopje, the capital, is the country's largest and most densely populated city. Other cities such as Tetovo, Gostivar, Shtip, Bitola and Ohrid are also popular among students and international visitors.

The relatively small population does not mean that all cities have identical safety conditions. Larger cities have busier public areas and heavier traffic, while smaller towns may offer a quieter daily lifestyle.

To understand the safety situation in North Macedonia, it is important to consider official statistics, local conditions and the characteristics of individual cities.

2. What Are the Crime Rates Like in North Macedonia?

Official crime statistics are an important factor when evaluating the safety of a country. Personal experiences alone are not enough to provide a complete picture.

According to the 2025 statistics published by the State Statistical Office of North Macedonia:

• 18,765 adults were reported as suspected of committing criminal offences.
• 6,371 adults were convicted of criminal offences.
• The number of reported adult suspects increased by 6.5% compared with 2024.
• The number of convicted adults decreased by 5.7% during the same period.

It is important to understand that these figures do not represent the total number of crimes. A single incident may involve multiple individuals, and not every reported suspect is eventually convicted.

The main types of crime that residents and international students should be aware of include:

• Theft and pickpocketing.
• Theft of belongings from vehicles.
• Residential and commercial burglaries.
• Fraud and scams.
• Robbery and isolated incidents of violence.
• Organized criminal activities.

Students should be particularly careful with their personal belongings in crowded shopping areas, public transport stations and entertainment districts.

3. Police Services and Security Controls in North Macedonia

General police services in North Macedonia operate under the Ministry of Interior.

The main responsibilities of the police include maintaining public order, preventing crime, responding to incidents, ensuring traffic safety and investigating criminal activities.

Some of the police controls residents may encounter include:

**Traffic controls:** Vehicle documents, driving licences, speed limits and compliance with traffic regulations are checked.

**Identity checks:** Authorities may request identification and legal residence documents when necessary.

**Public order controls:** Police may conduct operations in crowded events, entertainment areas and situations involving public safety.

**Crime prevention:** Fighting theft, fraud, drug trafficking and organized crime is among the responsibilities of the police.

International students are advised to keep their passports, residence permits and other relevant documents properly organized and accessible.

4. City Surveillance Cameras and the Safe City System

One of the most significant recent developments in North Macedonia's security infrastructure is the Safe City system.

According to announcements by the Ministry of Interior, the Safe City system became operational on 1 February 2026 in Skopje, Tetovo and Kumanovo, as well as selected sections of transport corridors 8 and 10.

During its initial implementation, the system focuses on detecting four main traffic violations:

1. Exceeding speed limits.
2. Running red traffic lights.
3. Improper stopping and parking.
4. Driving vehicles without valid registration permits.

The main purpose of this system is to encourage compliance with traffic regulations, reduce road accidents and improve road safety.

It is important to clarify that Safe City should not be understood as a nationwide surveillance system monitoring every street for all types of criminal activity. Its initial implementation primarily focuses on the electronic detection of traffic violations.

In addition, various security cameras may be found in cities, installed by municipalities, businesses and private property owners.

5. Apartment, Residential Building and Student Accommodation Security

One of the biggest concerns for families sending their children to study in North Macedonia is the safety of their accommodation.

The country has a mixture of newly constructed modern apartment buildings, older residential buildings and detached houses. As a result, security infrastructure varies from property to property.

Some modern apartment buildings may offer the following security features:

• CCTV cameras at building entrances.
• Password-protected or controlled entry systems.
• Video intercom systems.
• Cameras in elevators and common areas.
• Reinforced apartment entrance doors.
• Controlled parking access.
• Building management or on-site staff.

However, not every residential building offers all these features.

Before renting an apartment, students should inspect the main entrance, apartment door, locking system, outdoor lighting and general condition of the surrounding neighbourhood.

For long-term accommodation, choosing a property based solely on rental price is not recommended.

6. Is It Safe to Go Out at Night in Skopje, Tetovo and Other Cities?

Student life in North Macedonia is not limited to universities and classrooms. Cafés, restaurants, shopping centres and social events are an important part of everyday life.

Social activities are particularly common in larger cities such as Skopje. Cities like Tetovo and Gostivar also offer cafés, restaurants and social spaces where students can spend their free time.

As in other European cities, some basic precautions are recommended when going out at night:

• Avoid poorly lit and isolated streets.
• Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas late at night.
• Do not openly display valuable belongings.
• Avoid unnecessary confrontations with strangers.
• Use reliable taxi and transportation services at night.

A neighbourhood that feels safe during the day may have different conditions at night. New students are therefore encouraged to become familiar with their surroundings.

7. Is North Macedonia Safe for Turkish Students?

North Macedonia is one of the Balkan countries chosen by Turkish students for university education.

In cities such as Skopje, Tetovo and Gostivar, Turkish-speaking communities and social networks can make communication and cultural adaptation easier for newly arriving students.

However, living in a foreign country requires more than simply building a social circle. Students should also understand their legal rights and responsibilities.

Our recommendations for Turkish students include:

• Completing residence permit procedures on time.
• Keeping passports and residence documents secure.
• Renting accommodation through reliable landlords.
• Keeping university and relevant support contact information.
• Knowing which authorities to contact in an emergency.

No international student can be guaranteed a completely problem-free experience. However, choosing suitable accommodation, following local regulations and taking basic safety precautions can contribute significantly to a comfortable student life.

8. Which Emergency Numbers Should You Know in North Macedonia?

Students living abroad should know which telephone numbers to contact in an emergency.

• **112:** General emergency number.
• **192:** Police.
• **194:** Ambulance.
• **196:** Road assistance.

In an emergency, provide your location as clearly as possible and follow the instructions given by the authorities.

9. 10 Tips for a Safe Student Life in North Macedonia

A safe student experience begins with proper preparation and informed decisions.

Here are ten recommendations for students planning to study in North Macedonia:

1. Choose accommodation in a convenient area with easy access to your university.
2. Check the security of the building entrance before renting.
3. Make sure the apartment door and locking system are secure.
4. Avoid isolated and poorly lit areas at night.
5. Be careful when using public transport and taxis.
6. Protect your phone, wallet and other valuable belongings.
7. Keep your passport and residence documents properly secured.
8. Save emergency telephone numbers on your phone.
9. Keep the contact details of your university and landlord.
10. Learn about local regulations and everyday living conditions.

Conclusion: Is North Macedonia Safe for University Students?

North Macedonia is generally a country where everyday life and education can continue with normal safety precautions. Police services, traffic controls, the Safe City system and various security measures contribute to maintaining public order.

However, no country is completely free from crime. Theft, fraud and isolated incidents of violence remain potential risks in North Macedonia as well.

For students, the most important factors in maintaining a safe lifestyle include choosing the right city and neighbourhood, finding reliable accommodation, completing legal procedures and following basic safety recommendations.

**At EDUES Consulting, our priority is not simply helping students gain admission to universities in North Macedonia. We also believe in helping them build a safe, informed and comfortable life throughout their educational journey.**

If you would like information about universities, city selection, accommodation and student life in North Macedonia, feel free to contact EDUES.

**EDUES Consulting – Reliable Guidance. A Better Educational Journey.**