Immigration Law at Albania
Albania's immigration and residency framework is governed by Law No. 79/2021, titled “On Foreigners,” which replaced the previous Law No. 108/2013. This law aligns with European Union standards and outlines procedures for entry, stay, employment, and exit of foreign nationals.
Visa Regime
Visa Types:
Type A: Airport transit visa, allowing the holder to stay in the international zone of the airport until departure.
Type C: Short-term visa permitting stays up to 90 days within 180 days.
Type D: Long-term visa valid for one year, allowing stays up to 90 days within 180 days, and enabling the holder to apply for a residence permit.
Visa Exemptions:
Certain foreign citizens can enter Albania without a visa, including:
Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen, US, or UK visas previously used in the respective countries.
Citizens of specific countries like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Thailand, and Indonesia, during designated periods in 2024.
🏠 Residence Permits
Foreign nationals intending to stay in Albania for more than 90 days must obtain a residence permit. Types include:
Type A: Non-renewable residence permit.
Type B: Renewable residence permit.
Type C: Permanent residence permit.
Blue Card AL: For highly qualified employees, renewable.
Blue Card AL-C: Permanent residence for highly qualified employees.
Duration and Renewal:
Permits are issued for periods ranging from 3 months to 5 years.
Permanent residence is available after 5 consecutive years of legal residence in Albania.
💼 Work Permits
Foreigners wishing to work in Albania must obtain a work permit. Categories include:
Type B: For self-employment or employment with an Albanian employer.
Blue Card AL: For highly qualified employees.
Exemptions:
Citizens from the EU, Schengen Area, USA, and Western Balkans are exempt from work permit requirements for most employment situations.
🛂 Asylum and International Protection
Albania's Law No. 10/2021 on Asylum outlines procedures for granting international protection. It includes:
Accelerated Procedures: For certain applications.
Reception Centers: For asylum seekers.
Legal Aid: State-guaranteed assistance for applicants.
🌍 Citizenship
Albanian nationality law combines Jus sanguinis (right of blood) and Jus soli (right of soil). A person born in Albania to non-Albanian parents may acquire Albanian citizenship if:
They are stateless at birth.
Their parents reside in Albania and consent to the acquisition.
They are adopted by an Albanian citizen residing in Albania.
For detailed information on visa applications, residence permits, and work permits, you can visit the official website or write to us on our email id.
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