Are you planning to visit or reside in Albania? Understanding the different types of visas and residency permits in Albania is essential. Whether you’re a tourist, student, or looking to work in the country, Expatax’s mission is to provide you with valuable information on the various options available, so you prepare in advance for this journey.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or have specific questions about visas or residency permits, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice. There are experts who specialize in Albanian immigration laws and can guide you through the process with ease. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and there is support available to make your transition to Albania as seamless as possible.
Table of Contents
Visas in Albania Are Categorized into Three Types
1. Visa Type “A”
Referred to as the airport transit visa, this type of visa is issued as a stamp or printed electronically. It lets you enter and stay in the international part of an airport until your next flight to your destination country. The visa’s duration depends on how long you plan to stay and your flight reservation.
Type “A” visa may be issued with one, two, or multiple entries.
2. Short-Term Visa Type “C”
A short-term visa allows you to stay in Albania for 90 days within 180 days. This visa is issued more for the purposes listed below:
- Tourism.
- Medical purposes.
- Scientific, cultural, sports, and humanitarian reasons.
- Official visits
3. Long-Term Visa Type (D)
A long-term visa allows you to stay in Albania for one year. It is also issued if you plan to obtain a residence permit after entering Albania.
This type of visa is given for the purposes listed below:
- Studies
- Family reunion
- Work
- Diplomatic visa or service visa.
- Humanitarian or religious activities
- Seasonal employment
- Retirement
Documents to Submit When Applying for an Albanian Visa
Here are all the requested documents you need to have before applying for an Albanian visa:
- Valid passport
- One passport-style photo
- Application form
- Bank statement
- Travel health insurance
- Invitation letter
- Proof of accommodation in Albania
- Booked flight itinerary
You can on the e-Visa portal here to get a visa in Albania, or feel free to ask TAX AI at the bottom of the article for assistance through a legal exprt.
Foreigners that do not need a visa to enter Albania
Nationals of certain countries and holders of certain visas are able to enter Albania without needing a visa. Note that this does not give you automatic right to residency, but it does give you time to apply for it. Furthermore, note that US citizens get an automatic 12-month stay in Albania, visa-free, upon arrival.
Schengen Visa Holders: Foreign nationals with a valid, multi-entry Schengen visa that has already been used in a Schengen state, or who have a valid residence permit from a Schengen state.
US or UK Visa Holders: Foreign nationals with a valid, multi-entry US or UK visa that has been used in the issuing country, or who have a valid residence permit in the US or UK.
UAE Residence Permit Holders: Foreign nationals with a 10-year UAE residence permit, valid for at least one year from the time of entry.
Visa-Free Entry in Schengen Area: Foreign nationals who can enter and stay visa-free in the Schengen area can also enter Albania without a visa.
EU Travel Document Holders: Holders of specific travel documents issued by EU member states, including Alien’s travel document, Refugee travel document (under the 1951 Geneva Convention), Stateless persons travel document (under the 1954 New York Convention), and travel document for persons enjoying subsidiary protection.
Penalties For Overstaying in Albania
Unfortunately, overstaying – either as a visitor or as a visa holder past expiry date – can incur steep penalties. The fine, levied upon leaving the country, is EUR 500 for overstays of up to 30 days, and upwards of EUR 1,000 for overstays beyond 30 days. These are monetary penalties only; in some cases, there may be legal repercussions as well, not to mention the possibility of not being allowed back to Albania. If you are overstaying, you are advised to consult a professional before showing up at the border.
Getting a Residency Permit in Albania
In Albania, obtaining residency for foreign nationals staying more than 90 days involves applying for a unique permit through the electronic service “Request for Residence Permit.” This service allows applicants to apply for various reasons, such as family reunions, studies, humanitarian reasons, and others.
Note: Given the uniqueness of each case, feel free to reach out to us for assistance navigating the application process. Our team of experienced lawyers is here to support you every step of the way.
Update: Check out the latest new requirement for foreigners applying for residency in Albania.
