Albania/North Macedonia/Serbia: Open Balkans Scheme Legally Commences; Practical Elements Forthcoming

Update – March 19, 2025: Country experts have noted that the North Macedonian and Serbian portals are operational. The Albanian portal, however, is not yet operational.

April 12, 2024: In March 2024, the ‘Open Balkans’ work permit system formally commenced, though is not yet in operation, pending finalization of various practical measures by all participating countries. Under the scheme, Albanian, North Macedonian, and Serbian nationals will be allowed to reside and work in Albania, North Macedonia or Serbia for the duration of the permit without needing to obtain any additional residence or work permit. To apply for the permit, interested individuals will need to first obtain an Open Balkans identification document number (via an online government portal). The permit – which has a two-year duration – does not grant any residency or work rights to family members, but does grant the permit holder repeated entry (with work rights) into the participating countries. Once fully operational, the scheme will also include an online portal on which individuals can view, and apply for, available jobs (only some participating countries have completed development of their portal). This free labor arrangement is expected to increase the movement of talent between these countries, and in turn potentially address certain labor shortages. We will continue to monitor developments regarding practical commencement of this scheme, and will provide further updates as and when possible.