Getting a Work Visa in Albania

If you’re thinking about moving to Albania for work, you’re definitely not alone. The country has been attracting more expats, remote workers, and professionals each year thanks to its growing economy and straightforward permit system. According to sources, 15-20% of foreign workers have arrived in Albania, compared to last year.

But before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand exactly how the work visa process works, what you need, how long it takes, and what to expect once you arrive.

Why Albania Is Attracting Foreign Workers

Albania is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international workers because:

• Die Lebenshaltungskosten is lower than in Western Europe.
• The country is growing in sectors like IT, services, tourism, and business operations.
• The legal framework for foreigners has been updated, making processes clearer.
• Cities like Tirana, Durrës, Vlora, and Shkodër are becoming regional hubs for startups and international companies.

Key Terms Related to Work Visa in Albania

Work Permit
This allows you to legally work in Albania. It’s required for most non-Albanian citizens who will be employed by an Albanian company.

Unique Permit
This is a combined permit that covers work + residence. Instead of applying for separate work and residence permits, the Unique Permit gives you both in one application. It’s becoming the standard route for many foreign workers, freelancers, and investors.

Visa (Usually Type D)
Depending on your nationality, you may need a long-stay visa to enter Albania for work. Some nationalities can enter visa-free, but still need the Unique Permit or a residence permit later.

Who Actually Needs a Work Visa?

You generally need a work visa/permit if:

• You’re not an Albanian citizen.
• You’re planning to work for an Albanian employer.
• You’ll stay longer than 90 days.
• You’re not covered by visa-free agreements for long stays.

Remote workers who are not employed by an Albanian company have different rules (e.g., self-employment or digital-worker categories under the Unique Permit). And if you’re staying less than 90 days, some steps may not apply, but this depends entirely on your nationality.

How to Apply for a Work Visa or Unique Permit in Albania

1. Get a Job Offer
Your job contract must be valid, and your employer must be properly registered in Albania. In most cases, the employer also has to show they attempted to hire locally before hiring a foreign worker.

2. Employer Registers You
Your employer must register the employment relationship with Albania’s National Employment Service and provide supporting documents.

3. Apply for the Work Permit or Unique Permit
This can be done at the regional employment office or through the Portal e-Albania.

Processing times usually range from 30 days for a standard work permit to up to 12 weeks for some Unique Permit categories.

4. Apply for a Visa (If Required)
Some nationalities must obtain a Type D visa before entering Albania for long-term employment.

5. Enter Albania and Register Your Address
Once approved, you enter Albania and complete your residence registration.

6. Receive Your Permit and Start Working
You can legally begin your job only after the permit takes effect. Starting before approval can result in penalties.

How Long Is the Permit Valid?

Validity depends on the type of permit and your contract. In general:

• First-time permits are often issued for 1 year.
• Renewals can be issued for 2–5 years.
• Long-term residents may qualify for permanent residence after several years.

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Costs and Taxes

There are application and administrative fees depending on the permit type. Once employed, you’ll be subject to Albanian income tax and social contributions like any local employee. If you are self-employed, different contribution rules apply.

After You Arrive: What Comes Next

Once you’re settled, a few things will make your life easier:

• Get private health insurance or check what your employer provides.

• Open a local bank account for salary and payments.
• Learn basic Albanian.
• Join expat communities, coworking spaces, and social groups to meet people.

• Understand your employee rights under Albanian labor law.

Abschließende Überlegungen

Getting a work visa in Albania is not overly complicated, but it does require going through a few legal steps. As long as your employer is compliant, your documents are complete, and you follow the process step by step, the transition is usually smooth.

FAQs

Can I work remotely from Albania without an Albanian employer?

Yes, but you’ll likely need a Unique Permit under a category for self-employment, freelance activity, or “digital workers.” It’s not the same as a regular work permit.

Can I bring my family?

Family reunification rules apply once you hold a valid residence permit.

What happens if I switch jobs?

You may need a new work permit or updates to your existing one before you start your new role.

Can I become a permanent resident?

If you have legally lived in Albania for several years (usually 5), you may qualify for permanent residence.

Quellen

• Albanian Unique Permit documentation – e-Albania
• Albania immigration process maps – Fakhoury Global
• Globalization Partners: Albania Visa & Permits
• EURAXESS Albania – Work Permit Information