Get Your Albania Visa Online

Albania welcomes visitors from around the world with one of Europe's most liberal visa policies. Citizens of the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and over 80 other countries enjoy visa-free entry for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This generous policy makes Albania an increasingly popular destination for spontaneous travelers and digital nomads. For nationalities requiring a visa, Albania offers straightforward tourist visa options. The standard Type C (Short-Stay) Visa permits stays up to 90 days for tourism, visiting family, or cultural exploration. Applications are processed through Albanian embassies and consulates, with processing times typically ranging from 5-15 business days. During peak summer season (June-September), we recommend applying at least 3 weeks in advance. Albania has also introduced seasonal visa-free programs for certain nationalities during summer months, typically from April to October. These temporary measures expand access for travelers from countries like Russia, Belarus, and several Middle Eastern nations, though policies vary by year. Always verify current requirements before planning your trip.

Business Visas Albania's growing economy and EU candidate status make it an attractive destination for international business. Business visas are required for those conducting commercial activities, attending trade fairs, or establishing business partnerships. You will need an invitation letter from an Albanian company, proof of business registration from your home country, and documentation of your commercial purpose. Work & Residence Permits Foreign nationals seeking employment in Albania must obtain a work permit before arrival. The Albanian employer initiates this process through the National Employment Service. Work permits are typically issued for one year and can be renewed. Specialized permits exist for highly skilled workers, investors, and those in priority sectors like IT and tourism. Student & Cultural Visas Students enrolled in Albanian universities or cultural exchange programs can apply for Type D (Long-Stay) visas. These visas allow stays exceeding 90 days and require enrollment confirmation from the educational institution, proof of financial support, and comprehensive health insurance coverage. Albania's universities in Tirana, Vlora, and Shkodra increasingly attract international students seeking affordable European education.

Passport Requirements Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date from Albania and have at least one blank page for entry stamps. Albanian immigration strictly enforces these requirements, and travelers with insufficient passport validity may be denied boarding or entry. Financial Requirements While not always checked, Albanian immigration may request proof of sufficient funds for your stay. The guideline is approximately EUR 50 per day of your visit. Acceptable proof includes bank statements, credit cards, or cash. Budget travelers should carry documentation showing accommodation is prepaid or that they have a local host. Accommodation & Travel Plans You should be prepared to show hotel reservations or an invitation letter from your Albanian host. Return or onward travel tickets demonstrate you plan to leave within the permitted stay period. While spot checks are not universal, having this documentation ready ensures smooth immigration processing. Travel Insurance Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended and may be required for visa applicants. Coverage should include medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation with minimum coverage of EUR 30,000. Many European insurance policies automatically cover Albania as an EU candidate country.

International Airports Most international visitors arrive through Tirana International Airport Nene Tereza (TIA), located 17 kilometers northwest of the capital. The airport handles flights from major European cities including Rome, Milan, Vienna, Istanbul, and London. Budget carriers like Wizz Air and Ryanair offer affordable connections. A smaller airport in Kukes serves limited seasonal routes. Land Border Crossings Albania shares borders with Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece. Major crossings include Hani i Hotit (Montenegro), Morina (Kosovo), Qafe Thane (North Macedonia), and Kakavia (Greece). Border crossings are generally efficient, though summer weekends can see delays at Greek crossings due to tourist traffic. Sea Ports Ferries connect Albania to Italy from the ports of Durres and Vlora. Regular services run to Bari and Ancona in Italy, offering an alternative entry point for those touring the Mediterranean. Immigration processing occurs at the port upon arrival. Local Tips The Albanian Lek (ALL) is the local currency, though Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. Albanian hospitality, known as besa (a sacred trust), is legendary — expect warm welcomes wherever you travel. The country is remarkably safe for tourists, with low crime rates even in major cities. English is widely spoken among younger Albanians, especially in Tirana and coastal tourist areas.