In a significant development, the Regulation for the Free Movement of Workers in Albania, North Macedonia, and Serbia has come into effect. Citizens of these three countries can now move freely within each other's borders for employment purposes, with a residency allowance of up to two years.
 |
| The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, the Prime Minister of North Macedonia, Dimitar Kovačevski, and the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, after signing the agreement enabling the free movement of workers; January 23, North Macedonia, Skopje. |
According to the draft regulation, citizens of Albania, North Macedonia, and Serbia will no longer require work permits. Instead, they will need to obtain an identification number for electronic service portals, through which they can apply for free access to the job market, as reported by "RTSH."
This opportunity, coupled with a residency period of up to two years, has generated considerable interest, as noted by various employment agencies in the region. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce bureaucratic procedures, eliminating unnecessary delays and energy expenditure associated with specific processes that had financial implications and proved discouraging in past practices.
The agreement, signed on November 3, 2022, by six countries within the framework of the Berlin Process, outlined a commencement timeline for implementation set at 18 months. As the regulation takes effect, it marks a pivotal step toward fostering increased economic collaboration and mobility among the citizens of Albania, North Macedonia, and Serbia.
The initiative is poised to bring about positive changes by facilitating smoother cross-border employment and dismantling barriers that hindered labor market access in the past. The elimination of the need for work permits streamlines the application process, making it more efficient and less burdensome for individuals seeking employment opportunities in these neighboring countries.
The two-year residency rule not only encourages labor mobility but also provides individuals with a more stable timeframe to establish themselves professionally in a new work environment. This move is expected to have a profound impact on regional economic integration, as citizens of these three Balkan nations can explore and contribute to diverse labor markets within the region.
The Regulation for the Free Movement of Workers in Albania, North Macedonia, and Serbia represents a forward-thinking approach to fostering regional cooperation. As it begins to shape the employment landscape, it stands as a testament to the commitment of these nations to overcome bureaucratic hurdles and create a more interconnected and dynamic labor market.