Guide to Residency in Albania

Obtaining a residency visa in Albania is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Albania gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Prepare Necessary Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Proof of accommodation (lease agreement, property deed, etc.)
  • Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements, employment contract, etc.)
  • Health insurance covering Albania
  • Criminal record certificate from your home country
• Apply for a Tax Number (NIPT)
  • Visit the local tax office (Drejtoria e Përgjithshme e Tatimeve)
  • Submit the following documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Completed application form (can be found here)
  • After processing, you will receive your NIPT
• Register with the Police
  • Visit the local police station (Stacioni i Policisë)
  • Submit the following documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Proof of accommodation
    • Two passport-sized photos
  • After processing, you will receive a registration certificate
• Apply for a Residence Permit

  For stays up to 5 years

  • Visit the local migration office (Drejtoria e Migracionit)
  • Submit the following documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Completed application form (can be found here)
    • Proof of accommodation
    • Proof of sufficient financial means
    • Health insurance covering Albania
    • Criminal record certificate
    • Registration certificate from the police
    • Tax number (NIPT) certificate
  • Pay the residence permit fee

  For stays over 5 years (Permanent Residence)

  After living in Albania for 5 consecutive years, you can apply for permanent residence.

  • Submit the following additional documents along with the above-mentioned documents:
    • Proof of continuous residence in Albania for 5 years
    • Proof of integration (knowledge of the Albanian language, culture, and history)
• Wait for Approval
  • Processing times may vary
  • Once approved, you will receive your residence permit
• Register with the Local Health Centre
  • Visit the local health centre (Qendra e Shëndetësisë)
  • Submit the following documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Residence permit
    • Health insurance covering Albania

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Albania?

"In order to visit Albania, foreign nationals must obtain a visa before traveling. Those wishing to visit Albania must submit a valid travel document (such as a passport or identity card), as well as proof of sufficient fund maintenance and travel insurance when applying for the visa. The visa application must be submitted to the Albanian Consulate or Embassy in the applicant's country of residence prior to travel. Foreign nationals who wish to stay in Albania for more than 90 days must apply for residency. Applicants must submit the appropriate form at a local police office, as well as the following documents: proof of the purpose of their stay, a valid travel document and two color passport-size photos. Applicants may also need to provide proof of financial means and proof of health insurance. The application will be reviewed and approved by the local police office," commented one member living in Albania.