If you’re planning to move to Albania for work in 2025, you’ll be happy to know that the process is now much simpler than it used to be. Over the past few years, Albania has updated its immigration system, making it easier for foreigners to live and work here — especially after introducing the Unique Permit, which combines both residence and work authorization into one document.
Still, there are a few important steps and details to know in advance. Here’s a breakdown, explained simply and clearly.
The Basics: Visa, Residence, and Work Permits
In Albania, there’s often confusion about what’s needed to live and work legally. Here’s the quick version:
- Visa: This only lets you enter Albania. If you’re from a country that requires one, you’ll need a Type D visa (long-stay) to apply for residency later.
- Residence Permit: This allows you to stay in Albania for more than 90 days.
- Unique Permit: This is the main thing you need in 2025. It’s a combined work and residence permit, one application, one card.
In other words, if someone says they’re applying for a “work visa,” what they really mean is that they’re applying for a Unique Permit to both live and work in Albania.
What Changed in 2025
Albania has refined its process again this year to make things smoother and more transparent. The 2025 updates include:
- New online system: Everything now goes through e-Albania, from submitting documents to renewals.
- Clearer categories: There’s now a defined permit for domestic workers and caregivers, as well as digital movers (remote workers).
- Better coordination between ministries: This change has shortened approval times and reduced paperwork delays.
- Stricter checks on overstaying: Working without a valid permit can now result in fines or removal.
Overall, it’s still bureaucracy — but compared to five years ago, it’s far more efficient.
Who Needs a Work Visa or Unique Permit?
You’ll need one if you plan to:
- Work for an Albanian company (teacher, engineer, hotel staff, etc.)
- Open your own business or work as a freelancer in Albania
- Be transferred by your company to an Albanian branch
- Work remotely while living in Albania for more than 90 days
- Work as a domestic helper or caregiver for a family based here
Some categories, like diplomats, investors, or short-term technical workers, are exempt — but everyone else will need a Unique Permit.
The Step-by-Step Process (2025)
Step 1: Get a job or create your own work setup
You’ll need a signed employment contract or, if you’re self-employed, proof that you’ve registered a business activity in Albania.
Step 2: Prepare your documents
This usually includes:
- Passport (valid for at least one year)
- Criminal record from your home country
- Translated and legalized work or education documents
- Proof of address in Albania
- Health insurance
- Recent passport-size photo
If you’re applying from abroad, these must be apostilled or legalized.
Step 3: Apply online through e-Albania
Everything is done digitally now. Once submitted, your application is reviewed by multiple institutions before approval.
Step 4: Attend the migration office
You’ll be asked to appear in person to show originals, give fingerprints, and pick up your residence/Unique Permit card.
How Long Is It Valid
Most permits are issued for one year at first and can be renewed. After a few years of continuous residence, you may qualify for a long-term permit (or permanent residency).
Costs and Timelines
Expect to pay for:
- Translation and legalization of documents
- Visa fee (if applicable)
- Permit issuance fee
Processing times vary, but if your documents are complete, you can expect approval in a few weeks. Delays usually happen because of missing or untranslated documents.
Working as a Remote Employee or Freelancer
Albania doesn’t have an official “digital nomad visa,” but the Unique Permit includes a “digital mover” category, which serves the same purpose. If you work online for clients or a company abroad, you can still apply for residency and live legally here as a remote worker.
Final Thoughts
Albania is becoming increasingly attractive for foreigners — not only because of its cost of living, but also because the immigration process has finally caught up with the times.
If you have a clean set of documents and apply through the right channels, getting your work permit in 2025 is straightforward.
And if the process feels overwhelming (it often does the first time), it’s completely fine to get help from a local legal expert who knows the system and can guide you through e-Albania, translations, and deadlines.
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