At Expatax, our mission is to help expatriates and retirees get better acquainted with tax-related matters. Delving into the topic of import taxes when relocating to Albania can be quite complex. If you have any further inquiries beyond this article, feel free to use our intelligent AI tool for additional assistance.
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Import Taxes When Bringing Household Goods Into Albania
When moving to a new country, understanding the potential tax implications is crucial. For expats or retirees moving to Albania, import taxes on household goods can be a matter of concern. The good news is that most household goods are not subject to import taxes – a policy in line with international tax conventions. While the Albanian government doesn’t levy taxes on these items for bona fide prospective residents, importation does incur port charges, customs inspection fees, and other transaction costs once goods arrive in Albania. However, these are costs that are charged by whichever relocation or shipping company the prospective resident chooses to use; therefore getting a clear quote with a breakdown of costs before the move is essential.
How To Move Your Household Goods To Albania Tax-Free
Personal goods imported by individuals moving their regular place of residence to Albania can be admitted free of import duties. This includes motor vehicles, caravans and private vessels. However, several criteria needs to be fulfilled such as a minimum six months possession (12 months for vehicles – read below) before moving to Albania.
Vehicles and Vessels Must Be Owned For 12+ Months To Be Imported Tax-Free
For motor vehicles, caravans, vessels and aircrafts, some additional conditions must be met. The individual must have been the registered owner for at least a 12 month period before relocating to Albania. Also, customs duties and other taxes relieved for these items, cannot be transferred until two years after customs clearance unless payment is made.
Security Deposit For Tax-Free Importation of Personal Goods
To reduce tax avoidance, the Albanian authorities have decided that a security deposit must be paid by the person moving to Albania in order to qualify for tax-free importation. The amount will be decided by the authorities depending on the goods imported. The deposit will be released two years after its submission to customs clearance, upon proof that the owner of the goods has not changed throughout the two-year period.
What Documents Do You Need to Submit to The Albanian Authorities?
Several documents need to be submitted for applying relief from customs duties. These include:
- request for relief from customs duties along with a list of household items (your agent can help you prepare both)
- passport
- family certificate
- residence certificate
- valid residence permit from the country of origin
- documents proving continuous residence for at least one year in the country of origin
Note that all documents of foreign origin must be translated and notarized. Your shipping agent shall be happy to assist you with the legalisation of these documents.
Can You Import Alcohol and Tobacco Tax-Free in Albania?
Unfortunately, there are some exemptions to the tax-free regime for the importation of personal belongings into Albania. Alcoholic products, tobacco products, and articles used for trading or professional tools (excluding portable instruments of the applied or liberal arts) do not receive any import tax relief. It is recommended you alert your shipping agent well ahead of loading goods in your country of origin if you’re really planning to bring along those boxes of Chateauneuf du Pape or your prized collection of Cuban cigars.
Getting a Free Quote For Shipping And Import Costs
If you’re interested, we at Expatax can facilitate your move to Albania. From connecting you with licenced customs brokers and international shipping companies to providing free cost estimates, we can ensure your moving process is as smooth as possible. Feel free to ask TAX AI at the bottom of this article for more information.
Sources
https://www.dogana.gov.al/english/c/168/196/240/transferring-of-residence
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