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A Guide for Foreigners Moving to Albania (From the US, UK, Canada, and Australia)

Discover everything you need to know about moving to Albania as an expat from the US, UK, Canada, or Australia.

With a combination of affordability, natural beauty, and a growing economy, Albania, a hidden gem in the Balkans, has grown to be a popular vacation spot for foreigners from the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.

And if you’re one of them, you’re at the right place!

This is what you need to know if you plan on moving to Albania: 

Moving to Albania from the US

With a low cost of living and a growing business sector, Albania is heaven for American expats looking to invest or purchase in the country. Initial requirements for a temporary residence permit of up to a year are available to US citizens. Americans can apply for a five-year residence permit after establishing residency, making planning for long-term stays simpler.

The application for a residence permit follows the issuance of a D visa. Although it is advised to purchase international health insurance, US expats have access to private healthcare and international schools.

Gjirokaster Albania
Gjirokaster Albania

Moving to Albania from the UK

After Brexit, British citizens have discovered Albania to be a fantastic destination. UK citizens can still get a residence permit for up to a year, though the residency process for non-EU countries is slightly stricter. They will have to wait for five years of continuous residence until they can apply for permanent residency.

With expanding opportunities for investments in the tourism and real estate sectors, Albania’s cultural ties with the UK are gradually strengthening. Additionally, British citizens considering real estate investments can purchase homes in Albania, which offers affordable housing in comparison to other European countries.

Where To Stay In Albania
Albania’s Beautiful Landscape

Moving to Albania from Canada

Similar pathways are available to Canadian citizens residing in Albania. Since Canada and Albania do not have any special agreements, they will need to apply for a D visa before applying for a residence permit.

Shkodra Albania
Shkodra Albania

Moving to Albania from Australia

Similar to Canada, Australians do not have any specific agreements regarding visa-free travel or special immigration arrangements. Australian nationals seeking permanent residence in Albania must adhere to the standard D visa and residency procedure.

With its affordable housing options and expanding tourism industry, Albania offers Australians the perfect opportunity for long-term stays. Due to their modern facilities and proximity to the coast, Albanian cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Saranda are particularly popular with foreigners.

Dhermi Albania
Dhermi Albania

Moving to Albania for a Year

Many foreigners, digital nomads, and adventure seekers make the year-long move to Albania. Temporary residence permits for Albania are frequently issued for a year and are renewable. Before entering the country, you must first obtain a D visa before moving there for work, study, or simply to explore.

Albania’s affordable housing, culture, and opportunities for adventure are just a few reasons why it is becoming more popular with expats.

Read more about digital nomads in Albania.

Teth Church

Final Words

Albania has a lot to offer, whether you are moving there from the US, UK, Canada, or Australia or just beginning a year-long adventure. It’s a great place for expats looking for new opportunities and retirees looking for their new homes.

If you’d like more tips on moving to Albania, feel free to contact us at Magic Towns Albania.

References

https://nomadcapitalist.com/global-citizen/how-to-establish-residency-in-albania/

https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/albania/moving-albania

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Sara Alimehmeti

Sara embodies the definition of creativity in her role as a content creator on our team. As a native Albanian, she focuses on writing qualitative pieces, mostly well-researched articles and informative blog posts. She also plays a key role in creating engaging social media posts to build a like-minded community of Albanian lovers and keep them engaged. Her qualifications, among others, include a Reuters-accredited certificate in journalism, language certification, internship experience in Bucharest, and training in digital marketing. If Sara’s not on her desk creating content, you might find her reading a good book or penning her thoughts in her diary.

You can also find her words on Momentum Group, Bulls Media Albania, 112hub, and Ajroni.

Discovering Albania? Ask Magic AI.

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