Macedonian banks announce service disruptions for technical updates

Citizens and companies in North Macedonia may experience temporary interruptions and limitations to certain banking services on November 7 and 8. The Macedonian Banking Association stated that these disruptions are due to technical adjustments required to implement new standards for the denar payment system, which will take effect on Monday, November 9.

Specific limitations vary by institution. Stopanska Banka Skopje reported that electronic banking orders could only be created until 2:00 PM on Saturday, with no new orders allowed for current or future dates until the system restores on November 9. However, payment cards, POS terminals, and ATM cash deposits and withdrawals remain functional at Stopanska Banka.

NLB Bank announced limited availability for internet and mobile banking throughout the weekend. While cash withdrawals and card payments at POS terminals and online remain available, cash deposits via ATMs will be completely unavailable. NLB branches will also remain closed during this period. The new standards include the implementation of new payment orders, purpose codes, and the use of IBAN format for payment accounts.