Retiring in Albania: Pros, Cons, Best Retirement Visa

Dreaming of retirement in a warm climate where life moves slowly?

Morning walks by the sea or lake.

Afternoon coffee dates with like-minded people.

Weekends of hiking, dancing, and connecting with people.

With over 1.8 million foreigners entering Albania in July, it seems like Albania, the beautiful Mediterranean country that has gained considerable attention these last few years, is no longer a hidden gem. We’ve witnessed people from all over the world relocating here, either for a higher-quality, slow-paced life, to work/open a business, invest, or retire.

Albania has also been ranked the top 20 country in the world to retire to according to the Global Retirement Report 2025.

In this blog, I’ll share with you why retiring in Albania is worth it, what the downsides are, where to retire, and what you should know about the retirement visa.

Why is Albania a Favourable Retirement Destination?

Albania has a diverse geography, with beaches, mountains, and lakes all coexisting nearby.

The favourable subtropical Mediterranean climate all year round means you get to experience mild winters, which promise a much more comfortable experience compared to living in countries where winters are super cold and wet.

With an average of 300 sunny days per year, the warm climate in Albania is one of the reasons that make this country one of the best places to retire.

This also means you get to enjoy the outdoors more, with activities like walking, hiking, running, cycling, and exploring the beautiful nature of Albania. Road trips are also a lot of fun! Because Albania is a small country, it’s easy to organise excursions and explore different cities and towns that are home to a diverse, breathtaking nature and wildlife.

The food is amazing in Albania. It is one of those things we can easily and rightfully brag about. But it’s not just us, Albanians, who love it. A lot of foreigners, whether visitors or people who’ve relocated here, speak highly of the fresh organic food they’ve tried.

From Albania, Europe is within easy reach; most major capitals are just a short flight away. Even better, direct flights between Tirana and New York will now make traveling to America simpler than ever.

English is widely spoken and understood in Albania, especially by the younger generation. It’s easy to connect with like-minded people and build relationships, especially via Facebook groups or by joining events.

Expats and digital nomads organise events such as meetups and other activities to get together. With the increase in the number of events being organised, especially in cities like Tirana, you’ll be able to get to know other retirees, and probably even discover new hobbies!

Downside of Retiring in Albania

Healthcare in Albania isn’t at the same level as in Western Europe. Many retirees prefer traveling abroad, to Italy, Greece, or elsewhere in the EU, for certain medical treatments or check-ups.

Nepotism is a thing here. Whether to get a driving licence, to find a good job, or to get things done quicker, you’ll be favoured in the process if you know someone.

Driving is chaotic, but you’ve probably heard that already…I’ve come across a certain number of people who say the same thing about driving and traffic in Albania.

P.S. If you’d like to get a full breakdown of the pros and cons of living in Albania, I’ve written an article dedicated to that, based on my experience as a local.

Best Places to Retire in Albania

Pogradec

Pogradec is a quiet lakeside town that stays peaceful for most of the year, with a small rise in visitors during summer and early autumn. It’s located between Elbasan and Korçë, along the Albanian side of Lake Ohrid, and from here, you can easily go on day trips within the country, or even across the border.

Many Albanian retirees choose to spend a few months in Pogradec to unwind and escape the chaos of city life.

In recent years, the town has also started to attract foreigners looking for a slower, simpler lifestyle. Pogradec offers exactly that: a calm environment, friendly locals, and beautiful scenery.

Vlorë

Vlorë is a coastal city where the sea meets the mountains, giving it a mix of calm and energy. It’s busier than most Albanian towns, especially during summer, but it still offers peaceful spots outside the main season.

Many retirees like living here because they get both access to beaches, good restaurants, and a lively atmosphere when they want it, and quieter months when things slow down. Property prices are still reasonable compared to other Mediterranean cities, and the nearby areas like Orikum and Radhimë are even more relaxed.

Every week, we share our top picks from across Albania, from new visa updates and property insights to hidden towns worth exploring. Subscribe to our Magic Towns newsletter and stay in the loop with what’s happening across the country.

Sarandë

Sarandë is one of the most popular seaside towns for foreigners moving to Albania. It’s vibrant and full of life during summer, then quiet and peaceful for the rest of the year, perfect for those who enjoy a seasonal rhythm.

The views over the Ionian Sea and Corfu are incredible, and you can take day trips to Ksamil, Butrint, or even hop on a short ferry to Greece. The downside? Prices here are higher than in most other Albanian towns, especially for apartments with sea views.

Durrës

Durrës is the closest coastal city to Tirana, only about 50 minutes away, which makes it ideal for retirees who want both city access and the beach nearby. It’s a larger, busier place than Vlora or Saranda, but it has good infrastructure, plenty of shops, and a growing expat community.

The coastal area can get crowded in summer, yet life slows down in the cooler months. Some retirees prefer the suburbs around Durrës, like Golem or Lalëzi Bay, where it’s quieter but still easy to reach the city.

Visa for Pensioners in Albania

If you’re dreaming of spending your retirement years in Albania, the process is more straightforward than it sounds. While Albania doesn’t officially have a “retirement visa” like some other countries, foreign pensioners can apply for a Long-Stay Visa (Type D) and then a residence permit under the pensioner category.

This visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually if you continue to meet the requirements. After five consecutive years, you may even be eligible for permanent residency.

Thinking of Retiring in Albania?

If you’d like help understanding the process or need someone to guide you through your application, we can help you retire to Albania stress-free.