3.7 Cross-border mobility in employment, entrepreneurship and vocational opportunities
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Programmes and schemes for cross-border mobility
Erasmus+ Programme: Expanding Opportunities for Youth
The Erasmus+ programme, a flagship initiative of the European Union, provides young people from North Macedonia with valuable opportunities to study, train, volunteer, and gain work experience abroad. Under Key Action 1, vocational traineeships for apprentices and students in initial vocational training are available, managed by the National Agency for European Educational Programmes and Mobility. These traineeships contribute to personal and professional development, equipping young participants with practical skills while fostering cross-cultural collaboration and networking.
North Macedonia’s participation in Erasmus+ mobility projects has been growing, allowing students, young professionals, and volunteers to experience diverse educational and professional environments across Europe. These exchanges enhance language skills, intercultural awareness, and employability, making young people more competitive in the global labor market.
Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs: Cross-Border Business Development
In addition to Erasmus+, North Macedonia is also part of the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme. This initiative connects aspiring and newly established entrepreneurs with experienced business owners in other participating countries, fostering knowledge exchange, mentorship, and international networking. Young entrepreneurs gain hands-on experience in running a business, refining their skills, and developing strategies for long-term success.
Despite the benefits of EU-funded programs, North Macedonia does not offer state-funded initiatives specifically designed to support youth in gaining international work experience or establishing businesses abroad. While laws exist to regulate private agencies that facilitate employment abroad, these do not exclusively target young people. As a result, many youth rely on programs like Erasmus+ to access cross-border opportunities.
Legal framework
According to the Law on Employment and Insurance in Case of Unemployment, employment mediation in North Macedonia is carried out by the Employment Mediation Agency, a registered private agency responsible for domestic and international job placements. This agency must operate impartially and free of charge, following legal conditions and procedures.
Furthermore, the Law on Private Employment Agencies, adopted in 2018, regulates the mediation of Macedonian citizens' employment abroad. It mandates that job placements must be arranged through agreements between licensed private employment agencies and foreign employers. If contractual conditions are not met, workers have the right to compensation.
Additionally, the Law on Labor Records ensures that the state maintains data on Macedonian citizens working abroad, whether they secured employment independently or through an agency. It also covers workers sent abroad by Macedonian employers for investment projects.
For foreign nationals seeking to live and work in North Macedonia, specific visa and residency requirements apply. A Type D long-stay visa is necessary, followed by a temporary residence permit issued by the Ministry of Interior. Applicants must complete the required documentation process, including securing an official decision from the Ministry regarding their temporary residence status. The two primary permits issued under this system include a Work Permit, required for legal employment, and a Residence Permit, which allows for an extended stay in the country.
These regulations help structure employment opportunities for both Macedonian citizens seeking work abroad and foreign nationals entering the Macedonian labor market, ensuring compliance with national labor laws and international employment standards.