Moving abroad is exciting, but it also comes with its share of worries. One of the first things many expats and retirees ask is: What happens if I get sick?
In Albania, healthcare is accessible and relatively affordable, especially if you know where to go and what to expect. While the public system has its limitations, the private sector offers reliable services, often with English-speaking staff and modern equipment.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key things to know about healthcare in Albania, from costs and insurance options to how to find a good doctor. At the end, you’ll also get a free downloadable PDF to keep on hand: The Quick Guide to Healthcare in Albania for Expats.
1. How the Healthcare System Works in Albania
Albania has both a public und private healthcare system. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Public healthcare is free or low-cost for Albanian citizens and residents, but it’s often underfunded and can have long wait times, outdated equipment, and limited English communication.
- Private healthcare is widely used by expats and Albanians who can afford it. Clinics are available in most cities and offer quicker appointments, more modern facilities, and usually a higher standard of care.
Most expats rely on the private system for general care, dental visits, and even minor surgeries.
2. Do You Need Health Insurance as an Expat?
While health insurance isn’t strictly required for short stays, it’s strongly recommended, especially if you plan to stay long-term or apply for residency.
Options include:
- Albanian providers like Sigal, Albsig, Eurosig, or Intersig, which offer basic coverage for residents.
- International providers like SafetyWing, Cigna, or Allianz, ideal for digital nomads and remote workers.
Prices range from €30–€150/month depending on coverage and provider. Many private clinics will ask for direct payment, so your insurance will reimburse you afterward.
3. What Does Healthcare Cost in Albania?
Here’s what you might expect to pay out of pocket:
| Service | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| General practitioner visit | €20–€35 |
| Specialist consultation | €30–€50 |
| Dental cleaning | €25–€40 |
| Blood test (basic panel) | €10–€20 |
| Emergency room visit | €50–€100 |
Prices can vary depending on the clinic and location, but overall, costs are significantly lower than in Western Europe or the US.
4. Where to Go: Recommended Clinics and Hospitals
Tirana:
- American Hospital (Spitali Amerikan)
- Hygeia Hospital
- ABC Health Center
Durrës:
- Salus Clinic
- German Hospital Durrës
Vlorë:
- Vlora Regional Hospital (private sector)
- Private polyclinics in the city center
Most private clinics have English-speaking staff and accept bookings via phone or website. Some also offer 24/7 services.
5. Booking an Appointment
- Walk-ins: Possible in public clinics but discouraged due to wait times.
- Private appointments: Usually available within 1–2 days. You can book online, by phone, or sometimes via WhatsApp.
Tip: When calling, ask if the doctor speaks English, or request an English-speaking assistant.
6. Emergency Services and What to Do
- Emergency number: 127 for ambulance, 112 for general emergencies
- Private hospitals usually have faster response and better facilities
- Keep a note with your address in Albanian in case you need to direct responders
7. Healthcare Tips for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers
- Choose international insurance if you’re traveling often
- Make a list of local clinics before arriving
- Consider joining local expat Facebook groups to get clinic recommendations
- Keep digital scans of your prescriptions and health records
Schlussfolgerung
Healthcare in Albania is affordable and accessible—especially if you stick to the private system. While the public sector is improving, most expats feel more comfortable in private clinics with modern equipment and faster service.
To make things easier, we’ve prepared a free PDF cheat sheet you can download below. It includes clinic names, emergency numbers, insurance tips, and average prices, a simple reference to help you feel more secure during your stay in Albania.
