If you are moving to Europe, and climate, cost of living, safety, and long-term potential are important considerations for you, then Albania should be on your list. Read this guide to understand why this country deserves your attention and what you need to know to plan a successful relocation to Albania.
In this guide:
- Albania’s highlights.
- The legalities of moving to Albania: visas and residency options.
- The cost of living: monthly expenses, rentals, and real estate.
- Albania as a retirement destination.
- Infrastructure: travel connections, public transport, internet.
- Buying real estate.
- Healthcare.
- Taxes and bank accounts.
- Where to live in Albania – an overview of the most popular expat locations.
- Tips for moving.
Albania’s highlights
The country is well positioned. Across the Adriatic from Italy, Albania is a 2-hour flight from anywhere in Europe and easy to reach by air, sea, and land.
Albania can cater to any means, from modest budgets to modern luxury living. Though laid-back generally, Albania can also satisfy the active, even adventurous, lifestyle seekers.
Albania’s main seasons are basically spring, summer, and autumn. Most cities experience moderate winters and cool temperatures, with a snow flurry being a once-in-three-year event. If you enjoy the snow, Albania offers numerous snow-capped mountain escapes.
Summer days can average 90°F/32°C and dry. Late autumn is a wet season of approximately 2–3 weeks, and rains can be torrential with occasional flash floods in low-lying areas. Typically, it is only a momentary issue, though.
The urban and modern capital city, Tirana, is a day trip to the full gamut of outdoor life, from the mountains to the pristine coastlines.
Demographically, Albania is a Muslim country, but the people embrace a secular existence. Nevertheless, Eastern and Western Rite Catholic, Christian, and Muslim holidays are recognized and represented in the country.
Albania cannot be considered an LGBTQ destination, and such public displays of affection are not advisable. However, there isn’t any prolific or aggressive harassment towards the community, politically or socially.
An official EU candidate with accession talks started in 2020, Albania joined the Council of Europe in 1995 and NATO in 2009.
The official currency is the LEK (ALL), which has held strong against the Euro and US dollar while still providing a low-cost standard of living.
Visas and residency options for non-EU nationals
Albania has a long list of countries whose citizens are allowed visa-free entry. As a rule, if you are allowed to enter the country without a visa, you are permitted to stay for a period of 90 days.
The UK and EU nationals have the typical 90 days, while Albania provides US citizens with a very generous 1-year stay.
To stay for longer, you need a residency permit.
Residency permits
Residence permit for retirees:
- This visa option allows retirees to live in Albania and enjoy its warm climate and vibrant culture.
- Requirements: Proof of retirement, sufficient financial means to support oneself (minimum of $10500 a year in retirement income), and health insurance.
- The initial visa is valid for 12 months (1 year). Following the first renewal, it extends to two years, and after the third renewal, the visa becomes valid for five years.
Digital nomad residence permit:
- Designed for remote workers, this visa offers the opportunity to live and work from Albania.
- Requirements: Proof of remote work (a contract with a foreign company, a service contract with a foreign contractor, or a contract with a client for a specific remote project), proof of sufficient income (minimum of $10500 a year), an Albanian bank account, health insurance, and proof of accommodation.
Residence permit for property buyers:
- This visa is available for foreign individuals who have purchased property in Albania and wish to reside in the country.
- Requirements: Proof of property ownership, proof of financial means to support oneself, and health insurance.
Getting residency in Albania
Residency needs to be initiated within 30 days of entering the country. If you miss the 30-day mark, just leave the country for one day and enter again.
The process can be started using Albania’s electronic portal, e-Albania, offered in Albanian and English. But you will need to go in person to an immigration office.
Warning: US citizens should consider the potential costs of being subjected to both US and Albanian taxes if they stay in Albania long term.
After five years of uninterrupted residence, you can apply for permanent residency in the Republic of Albania.
The cost of living in Albania
Albania is very affordable. Rent, real estate prices, monthly costs and entertainment are very reasonable.
Here is how the cost of living in Albania compares with some of the northern European and North American countries:
Albania provides a low-cost but quality standard of living for foreigners. However, the cost of living, specifically rent and nightlife, is subjective to the time of year and area.
You will find that rent and nightlife along the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines are very expensive during the summer season. It can be very difficult to negotiate an annual rental agreement close to a tourist area for a reasonable price. Generally, if you move a bit away from tourist areas, you will find good value for your money.
Housing
The capital, Tirana, is the most expensive place to be. It’s especially noticeable with new property development prices in Tirana. Albania is undergoing a massive residential development phase, with dozens of apartment complexes springing up all over the capital city.
These complexes are very modern and well-equipped, with all the essentials from markets, cafes, pharmacies, dry cleaners, barbershops /salons, gyms, etc. However, they average around $1400/1200€ per sq. meter.
Many are offered for long-term rental around $400-$500/350€-425€ a month for a 2-bed 1 bathroom apartment. Utilities can run approx. $100/85€ a month. Existing real estate is cheaper even in the same areas.
Near the beach in Durres, older 2-bed apartments can be found at around $50K/40K€. Rents for the same apartment could average $300/250€, depending upon the apartment’s summer rental history.
Monthly expenses
Tirana has a cheap public transport system (less than half a dollar/Euro) and is very walkable and bikeable.
General items at the market are reasonable. A week’s worth of groceries for a typical family will average around $100/85€.
Local restaurants are cheap and offer various food, from traditional fare to hamburgers, doners, and pasta. An expresso averages $.70/.60€.
There are some KFC and Burger Kings in Tirana that will cost more.
Tirana’s Blloku district is the country’s preeminent drinking and dining scene, and prices there will be very US/UK-like.
Other everyday items in Tirana:
- Petrol – $1.60/1.40€ per liter
- A haircut – $4.50/4.00€, and
- Typical monthly phone/10GB data packages – about $14.50/12.50€. You will need an Albanian SIM card for any long-term stay.
Albania as a retirement destination
According to the Expatra Global Retirement Index, Albania is in the top 20 best countries to retire in the world.
The index is based on the Expatra Global Retirement Survey that asks international retirees to rate their retirement destination’s infrastructure, climate, ease of settling down, value for money, friendliness, and other aspects of life in their retirement destination.
Here is how Albania scores:
Albania has modernized its retirement permit. The new policy allows retirees to receive residency based on basic requirements, including a pension, a notarized rental agreement, and private health insurance.
To apply for an Albania Retirement Visa, you will need the following:
- Completed and signed Albania Retirement Visa Application Form.
- Photocopy of your valid travel document.
- Two recent photographs (47mm x 36mm).
- Proof of suitable accommodation in Albania (certificate or lease contract).
- Proof of an annual income of 1,200,000 ALL (approx. $10,500) from your country.
- Bank evidence from a second-tier bank in Albania for pension transfer.
- Health insurance certificate valid in Albania.
- Legalized Judicial Records Certificate from your country.
- Statement explaining the motive of your stay in Albania.
Considering the cost of living, modern private healthcare and caregivers, affordable housing, year-round good weather, and tax-exempt pensions, Albania is an appealing retirement option.
Safety
Albania does have an issue with organized crime, but the most you’ll see regarding that is the Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Bentleys showing off in Blloku on a Saturday night in the summer. Even with that issue, the US rates Albania at Level 2. In truth, unless you’re involved in such behavior, it will not impact your experience.
If you choose to live in one of the luxury residential communities, those types of individuals, as well as ambassadors, politicians, and celebrities, will be your neighbors. But, regardless of where you live, encountering any violence is rare.
The most common crime you’ll see is traffic violations. Albania is very safe for single travelers, females, families, LGBTQ, and the elderly.
Regarding COVID-19, Albania handled the issue comparatively better than many other countries. Albania has an effective vaccination program (including US and EU-approved vaccines), and everyone is eligible, including non-residents.
Albania has maintained one of Europe’s lowest infection and fatality rates from COVID, has had only one national lockdown, and restaurants/cafes are functioning as normal, with masks and other health security precautions.
Travel connections
Albania is well-positioned for travelers wanting to explore Europe and Meditteranean desstnations. International flights are availble from and to many countries in the world.
Air travel
Major airlines operate in Tirana International Airport (TIA) offering flights to and from Albania include Turkish Airlines, Alitalia, Lufthansa, Wizz Air, and Air Albania.
Flights from countries like Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Turkey, and Greece are commonly available. Prices vary depending on the season and the departure location, but average prices for round-trip flights from European countries range from $100 to $300.
Sea routes
Albania has several ports along its coast, providing options for ferry services. Popular ferry routes include connections to Italy (Bari, Brindisi) and Greece (Corfu, Igoumenitsa).
Companies like Adria Ferries and Red Star Ferries operate these routes. Prices for ferry tickets start from around $40 and can go up depending on the route and cabin class.
Public transportation
Albania’s public transportation system is not very impressive to say the least. It consists of buses and minibusses called “furgons” that connect cities and towns.
In major cities like Tirana, you can find a relatively decent public bus network, but it can be overcrowded during peak hours. The furgons, on the other hand, are more prevalent in rural areas, making it convenient for local travel.
However, they often operate on irregular schedules and can be cramped.
Due to the limitations of public transport, many residents and expats in Albania find that owning a car is essential, especially if you live ouside of urban centers.
Internet
The average download speed in urban areas is around 50 Mbps, while in rural areas it can vary between 20 and 30 Mbps.
If you’re living in Tirana and Durres you’ll have a good internet connection.
Digicom offers 1 Gigabit download speed for around 3,000 ALL.
Other providers are Abissnet, Tring, and Vodafone.
Mobile internet: start from around 300 Albanian Lekë (ALL) for a monthly data allowance of 1GB.
Postpaid mobile internet plans can range from approximately 800 ALL per month for 5GB of data to 2500 ALL per month for unlimited data.
Buying real estate
Foreigners can buy property in Albania, whether in the capital or along the coast, except for agricultural land exceeding 1000 sq. m., which requires establishing a local company.
Purchasing real estate in Albania can also grant a residence permit, requiring a minimum living area of 20 square meters per person, regardless of property value.
Fees and expenses:
- Registration fee: €80.
- Notary fee: €150–€450.
- Real estate agent’s fee (2% for the seller, 1% for the buyer, sometimes included in the price).
For new constructions, extra fees include:
- Municipal fee (0.1-2.5% of the contract amount).
- Property insurance (1% of the transaction amount, valid for ten years).
Albania does not impose a property tax except for a local municipal tax.
Average property prices in Albania:
| City/Town | Average Apartment Price |
|---|---|
| Tirana | $200,000 |
| Durres | $150,000 |
| Vlore | $120,000 |
| Shkoder | $100,000 |
| Elbasan | $90,000 |
| Fier | $80,000 |
Healthcare and health insurance for expats in Albania
Albania has a functional nationalized healthcare infrastructure, and everyone is eligible for emergency treatment. Anyone can go to a local doctor’s office and get basic treatment and prescriptions for approximately $25/20€.
However, valid health insurance is a residency requirement.
Hospitals
Albania has a very modern private medical sector, with hospitals accredited by the US, Italy, Greece, and Turkey.
These private hospitals and clinics are equipped in all medical areas, including cosmetics for both men and women. They’re very affordable, and depending upon your deductible, the bill is usually quite reasonable.
The most popular hospitals include:
- The University Hospital Center “Mother Teresa”, located in Tirana, is known for its comprehensive range of services and expertise in cardiology, neurology, and oncology.
- The American Hospital, also situated in Tirana, stands out for its modern infrastructure and exceptional healthcare services, including surgery and emergency care.
- Hygeia Hospital in Tirana focuses on patient-centered care and offers specialized treatment in areas such as orthopedics, gynecology, and pediatrics.
- The Regional Hospital of Durres, serving the coastal city of Durres, offers a broad spectrum of medical services, including internal medicine, surgery, and emergency care.
- The Shefqet Ndroqi Hospital in Elbasan provides specialized care in fields such as cardiology, urology, and dermatology.
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Nestled among mountains in the northern part of Albania, Lake Koman has the looks and climate of Scandinavian fjords.
Expats in Albania
Foreign visitors are significant to Albania’s economy, and foreigners are welcomed everywhere. Albania is already a European vacation secret, with most tourists coming from the UK, Italy, Poland, the Czech Republic, Ukraine, Germany, Russia, and the Balkans.
The expat community grows every year. It’s composed of nationals from all regions of the globe, with a significant presence from Italy, the UK, and the US. And, with embassies representing virtually the entire international community, no one is ever far from their home or services.
Taxes in Albania for expats
The most common tax in Albania is a sales tax of 20% on virtually everything already in the price. Paying income taxes in Albania requires an accountant.
There are 3 types of personal income that are subject to tax:
Employment income: As of 1 January 2024, the tax rate on employment income is 13% on annual taxable income of up to 2,040,000 ALL (just over $21,000) and 23% on income in excess of that amount
Business income (self-employed and commercial individuals): The tax rate on business income for individuals is 15% on annual net taxable income (taxable profit) up to ALL 14 million and 23% on annual net taxable income exceeding ALL 14 million.
Investment income: an investment income tax rate of 15% is applied to all types of investment income, including private pensions, other than dividends, for which the income tax rate is 8%
US citizens will pay both US and Albanian taxes. Non-residents pay taxes only on Albanian income.
Opening a bank account
To open a bank account in an Albanian bank as an expat, you will need the following documents:
- Valid passport: Bring a copy of your passport, which should be valid for at least six months.
- Proof of address: Provide a document that verifies your residential address, such as a utility bill or a rental agreement.
- Residence permit: If you are a non-EU national residing in Albania, you will need to present your valid residence permit.
- Tax identification number (TIN): Obtain a TIN from the Albanian tax authorities. This number is necessary for various financial transactions.
- Employment or income proof: Depending on the bank’s requirements, you may need to provide documentation that verifies your employment status or proof of income, such as a job contract or bank statements.
- Initial deposit: Prepare the initial deposit amount required by the bank. The minimum deposit often varies depending on the type of account you are opening.
The pros and cons of living in Albania
As with any destination, there are good and could-be-better elements in living in Albania. Regarding the Balkans, though, Albania has much more to offer than most other countries. Nevertheless, some things are lacking, but Albania is working to improve as it moves towards EU membership.
The pros of living in Albania
1. Best food scene in the Balkans
Tirana undeniably has the best food scene in the Balkans. The majority of the options are concentrated in the Blloku district, but you can find amazing places to eat all throughout Tirana.
From US-style steakhouses to some incredibly fresh and excellent sushi, virtually every cuisine is available. There is even an all-you-can-eat sushi event (average $20/17€) every weeknight.
2. Amazing nature and history
Running the full length of the country’s western border, Albania’s Adriatic and Ionian coastlines are an absolute joy for the eyes. The picturesque mountains offer an unparalleled alpine experience all year long, from camping to skiing.
Albania is littered with ancient Greek and Roman remains and has four UNESCO sites and numerous more under consideration.
3. Very hospitable locals and culture
Albanian people are incredibly welcoming and hospitable. The millennium-old old culture strives to maintain authenticity while working towards modernization. The Albanian code of ‘Besa’ invokes a duty upon every Albanian to provide warmth and security to all visitors to the country.
The cons of living in Albania
1. National bus system
Though there is an effective public transport system in place within the cities, going from one city to another can be very time-consuming and overwhelming.
You may need to take four buses and nearly two hours to get from Tirana to the beaches of Durres (30 minutes west) in the summertime. And these buses terminate rather early. Often, the final return is around 19:00 (7 pm).
2. Import tax
It’s very expensive to have anything internationally mailed to you in Albania. The import tax (Dogana) is nearly 25% and applies to the total value, including the cost of shipping.
3. Albanian is a difficult language
Learning Albanian may be a bit too difficult for many people. With an alphabet of 36 characters, some are pronounced with sounds most native English speakers will find difficult to make.
Italian is widely spoken in the country. English is common in Tirana. People in all private hospitals, many government agencies and tourist areas speak good English. Most of the youth and young professionals also speak English.
Where expats live in Albania
The expat community is scattered throughout the country, as Albania offers every environment.
Those who prefer a truly urban setting live in Tirana. The beach life is focused in cities such as Durrës, Vlora, and Saranda. If you desire history and tradition, head inland to Berat, Shkoder, Gjirokaster, and Korca.
For more information on various locations, read our “Best Places To Live In Albania As An Expat” guide.
What you should know before you move to Albania
Albania is still very much a cash-based society. In the malls, large markets, hotels, Blloku district, and tourist venues, credit cards are accepted. Expect to pay rent in cash. Always use the local currency as a very high conversion rate is applied.
The communications infrastructure is modernized and provides very good and reliable internet. The significant exception is in the mountains and some places in the northern regions.
Albania has three international airports and three international ferry ports. Be cautious of ‘fake’ taxis due to excessive prices; real taxis have yellow license plates.
Tirana has several very nice malls filled with high-end brands. Regardless of where you choose to live, you may need to go to Tirana to get certain things done or find certain products.
Expect to drink only bottled water.
Pork and spicy foods are available but not common.
Smoking is ubiquitous, and driving can be treacherous.
As locals earn roughly $18/15€ for an 8-10 hour shift, a 10% tip is considered generous and very appreciated.
Living in Albania – summary
Albania is very much a diamond in the rough, and you do need to know it better before making relocation decisions. Start with Albania as your summer getaway, and let it become your home.
The greatest element of Albania is the ability to enable you to invest in a very promising future while being able to enjoy today as well.
Didn’t find what you were looking for or need further advice? Comment with your question below, and we will do our best to help.
Other locations in the Balkans to consider:
Helpful external links:
- Advice for British nationals living in Albania – UK government guidance.
- Albanian traditions and customs – AFS-USA.
- Albania travel update – Travel.State.Gov.
An utterly fascinating piece, thank you for taking the time to explain a few things. My retired parents are joint UK/NZ citizens, they are currently down under but are thinking of ‘coming back up’ in a few years time, they started looking at Greece and Cyprus for the Golden Retirement Visa or the FIP Visa but it has gotten very expensive or complicated in the last year so I have suggested looking outside the box and this may fit the bill!
My dad while in general good health is diabetic, that will be something he needs to have a look at. Is there a website you could direct me to where I could find out what is available for private healthcare?
Also, would you recommend a place on the coast which is open over wintertime? I would hate for them to come up and end up in a town that shuts down over winter and leave them nothing to do.
Thanks
Hello Colin ~
Thank you for reading our article about Albania and contributing to our knowledge base.
Yes, the Greek Golden Visa will be increasing in price by the end of August – currently, the investment zones for real estate purchases are €250K and €500K but will be increasing to €400K and €800K on 31 August 2024.
The Cyprus Golden Visa is still a real estate investment starting at €300K – the government has not yet announced any plans to increase the price, but Cyprus is in the process of joining the Schengen Zone, and once that is complete, the value of Cypriot residency will increase, so I do expect the price to as well.
Albania is a great alternative – and the Albanian Riviera along the Adriatic will give both Greece and Cyprus a run for their money.
Saranda, Vlora, and Durres will all operate year-round, the difference being that Durres is the third largest city, and Saranda and Vlora are relatively small, so while they are year-round, they will still be a bit restrictive in the off-season.
I lived in a small outskirt of Durres called Plepa for a year and never had any problems accessing daily needs at any time.
It was only a 10-minute bus ride to Durres city center and there is everything you need at any time of year, but there were plenty of local markets and restaurants.
Durres is a much more affordable area than Saranda and Vlora as well.
With that said the big international hospitals are all in Tirana, the capital – no coast, however. But it is only a 30-minute bus ride or a [approx.] €40 taxi ride from Durres to Tirana.
In Tirana, the American hospital [Spitali Amerikan] has endocrinologists and I know many expats who have relied on them for diabetic care. The hospital has a satellite clinic in Durres, so you may be able to utilize that.
But there are several very good private hospitals in Tirana – you will not have any trouble in that department.
Vlora does have a new hospital, but it is not private, it is a public institution.
Thanks again for being a valued member of the Expatra community and continuing to help us improve our knowledge base.
Julian – Global Talon
Explore, Experience, Engage
Why do you pay such exorbitant rentals in Albania when you can rental flat in Sicily or Azores for €200 per month? Continent is the source of culture and all our troubles.
I’m self-employed all my life and I will never retire. For retirement I will have to work or purchase a revolver or a shot gun. Isn’t life wonderful.
Hey Tom, I love your coverage of Albania! I am an American who has been on the north coast for 6 months and it is sweet. I’d love folks to know about an opportunity in Tirana (no commission or anything for me, haha) because I have had the best experience with my landlady, and she has another place there. Do you know a digital nomad site (if not here) where I can list it? It’s only US$400/month, in a wonderful location near nature and bike trails, as well as bus and easy parking. It’s a modern, furnished one-bedroom with a double-bed, two bathrooms, spacious living room, balcony, great internet, central heat, air, electricity, fully equipped kitchen, internal laundry room (which has space for a bicycle), and has been empty for a year, so the energy is really good, especially because the owner is the kindest and sweetest. Plus, she’s an immigration attorney, a young Albanian mom now raising her sons abroad, and therefore can legally assist the renter looking to stay long-term. It works so well to keep this as a base and travel. If gone for longer spells, the lease might be able to be maintained without utilities for only US$300/month. Her family has one of the best tourist bus businesses here, so they are super hospitable and responsive and can recommend places to newcomers. I love the ease and comfort of Albania! You represented it well. Thanks, MC p.s. I’ll remove the info about the apartment once it’s rented, and leave my praise…
Hey MC ~
Thank you very much for your comments and for contributing to our knowledge base.
WOW, that apartment genuinely is a great opportunity.
My suggestion, if you are looking solely for a Digital Nomad audience, would be Facebook groups. There are several Facebook groups that are entirely or predominantly Digital Nomads in Albania or looking to visit Albania.
There are many posts about available apartments just as you are suggesting to make.
I would also suggest, if this would suit the landlady’s needs, if the apartment is located in walking distance or at least convenient to any of the international schools, to let the school admins know about the apartment. Over the past 2 years, many more teachers from the UK and US have been coming to Tirana to teach at the international schools – 2 have moved into my apartment complex in the past 6 months – 1 from Wales and the other is an American family and the mom teaches at one of the schools. This apartment sounds perfect for a single person who it also teaching at the schools – provided its location works.
Just a couple of ideas for you MC – hope they help.
Thanks again for being a valuable member of the Expatra community and contributing to our knowledge base.
Julian – Global Talon
Explore, Experience, Engage
I found your article very helpful. Thank you. I have one question concerning taxes for an American retired expat. Are annuities taxed? Thanks1
Hello Warren –
Thank you for reading our article about Albania and contributing to our knowledge base.
One of the things that, especially, US citizens need to adjust to the first time they move outside the US is the tax code.
In most countries, Albania included, the tax code is very straightforward, unlike in the US. There are no standard deductions for filing as Single, Married, or Head of Household, and things like that.
If something is putting money in your pocket, it is taxed.
Some countries in Europe are offering special visas and programs providing a term of zero taxation or reduced taxation on all or certain types of incomes, such as pensions, but otherwise, if it is putting money in your pocket, it is taxable at the regular rates.
The Albania tax code basically recognizes residency or non-residency and income from employment and income from other sources – i.e. stocks, annuities, etc.
Residency pays taxes on all income, globally or in Albania.
Non-residency pays taxes only on Albanian income.
Residency income generated by non-employment has a threshold of approximately $250 dollars a month – under that is not taxed. Above that is when you venture into the 13%-23%+ tax rates.
There is some current confusion regarding whether retirement is taxable.
In one place in the law, it states EU pensions and in another, it states foreign pensions.
Also, the word pensions is a bit confusing, as the US doesn’t really have pensions any longer, so what constitutes a pension [i.e. retirement income] is somewhat vague.
This is concerning the Albania Retirement Permit which provides for tax-free pensions. With a very good attorney, you may be able to prove your annuity is really a pension, but there are no guarantees.
Nevertheless, remember [if a US citizen] there is no double taxation treaty between the US and Albania.
Hope that is helpful Warren.
Julian – Global Talon
Explore, Experience, Engage
@Julian,
I am from US. My situation is a bit unusual. When I will retire, I will have both: social security which I will be able to start receiving at age 67, but I will also have a real pension (I worked for government). So, my question is: will my US pension be taxed? Will my social security be taxed? Thank you, Lesia
Hi Lesia, I am afraid we cannot provide any tax advice. US citizens are generally taxed on their income by US government regardless of where they reside. You need professional advice to make sure you are doing everything correctly.
Great article but your rental prices for Tirana are out of date.
Digital nomads, over-construction and the like have created a false economy in Tirana and have pushed rental prices to an astonishing level for Albania.
Unfortunately, pushing Albanians on regular wages out of the Tirana rental market in the midst popular zones.
Expect to pay a minimum €500+ per month.
I had rental agencies laugh at me because I returned to Albania thinking I could rent a Central/Liqeni Area/Komuna e Parasit apartment for a maximum of €400 p/month including tax!
Also, if you want a legal contract then the owners will expect the renter to pay their rental income tax, so add 15% to any listed/negotiated price.
To get residency you must have a legally notarised contract.
hi! great article! We plan our trip to Balkans and consider spending some time in Albania as it seems breathtaking!
A few questions (not sure if you know):
1. You mentioned one year visa-free for americans. And we found information online that after 1 year, one must be outside the country to reset the clock and get another year. What if we stay only 6 months then leave for a month or a few months and decide to come back. Will this reset the clock and when we re-enter we will get another year OR should we just count it all within the first 365 days? This is unclear. Maybe you or your friends had such an experience and know this.
2. Can a tourist open a bank account in Albania? If so, what do we need to show (which documents)? Also, if we transfer money from the US to Albania, is there a pickup location/service for Wise, Western Union etc.?
3. How does one find a long-term apartment in Albania for 6 months for instance? Do we need to sign a lease? Do we need to find a broker or is it possible to just walk around a see what’s available for rent (in some countries it’s as simple as that). Also, what’s their rules (deposit etc)?
Thanks so much!
@Tara,
Thanks for reading my piece and contributing to our knowledge base.
1: Once you enter Albania, the 1-year clock begins and runs non-stop until the 1-year expires. Leaving during the 1-year does not reset the clock. You will still need to leave at the 1-year mark and remain outside the country for 3-months before you can re-enter.
2: Yes, there are Western Union locations in Albania, but I would not advise wiring money, ever. It’s best to simply withdraw it from the ATM.
3: Finding a long-term rental greatly depends upon the area and time of year in which you are looking. It’s not possible to address all your specific questions in a general sense here as they vary considerably from situation to situation. All of what you ask is possible to do or to occur. I would suggest that you book a 1 or 2-month stay on a site like VRBO and then work the situation from there.
FYI, I offer online consultations if you would like to consider that, and we would be able to go into greater detail about your specific situation.
You can simply email me at globaltalon1@gmail.com for further information about that if you would like.
Thanks again Tara for your comment, questions, and contributions.
Julian – Global Talon
Explore, Experience & Engage
@Julian,
thanks so much for your reply! We will definitely save your email and will be in touch when we’re about to be ready for our trip!
You mentioned that the Western Union / Wise transfer is not recommended, I’m guessing – safety issues? So, based on this, one last question here (it might be useful for others as well) – you mentioned ATM card, but…for instance, our bank charges us tons of money (international fees) every time we use ATM abroad. Would you recommend a safe online bank that has free ATM cards in Europe for americans? (free ATMS in Balkans and Italy especially)? thanks!
@Tara,
I do not wire money, simply due to the cost of conversion and transaction. Paying those fees is simply not necessary in 2022.
With the incredible rise of the Digital Nomad sector, there are many US banking options that offer free international ATM use as well as no conversion fees and no foreign transaction fees.
I’ve been using them for years. If you do a lot of international traveling, you really need to leverage such banking options to eliminate these fees.
I apologize, but I cannot make any specific recommendations (naming institutions and banks) for financial issues here.
Please remember, that this is not my personal site.
I am in the process of finalizing my latest book which includes a chapter about this very topic, and I am able to list the specific services that I use there.
I am hopeful this will go to print by year’s end.
In the meantime, the only means of giving you more specific information is via my online consultations – when and if you are interested in that.
Thanks again Tara for your comment, questions, and contributions.
Julian – Global Talon
Explore, Experience & Engage
@Julian, thanks for taking time and answering. We actually already found online banks with no ATM international fees, so it’s a good time to switch to one. Again, appreciate all your ideas and solutions and best of luck with your upcoming release!
Hello Julian,
Thanks for valuable and keen information about the Albania. Above article is very much interesting. We are family of 2 and looking for relocation to Albania. We both are based in India and seeking more information about job opportunities, accommodation and health Services. we are 40 years old and working professional in Pharmaceutical Industry. Please suggest, how much cost of living we have to consider if we relocate and plan our retirement there. And what are the other measures we have to take to move forward to Albania.
Thank you so much… !
@Rockey,
Thanks for reading my piece and contributing to our knowledge base.
To be honest, cost of living is a difficult question to address as it differs with everyone and depends upon where you want to live, what you require in housing, and what sort of life you intend living.
It’s very possible for a couple to live on $2000-2500 a month, but again, that can go up or down significantly.
In regards to actually staying in Albania, that also depends upon a number of factors, including your passport. So, it’s not possible to go into that here. You stated that you are “based in India”, but that doesn’t mean you have Indian passports.
FYI, I offer online consultations if you would like to consider that, and we would be able to go into greater detail about your specific situation.
You can simply email me at globaltalon1@gmail.com and me for further information about that if you would like.
Thanks again Rockey for your comment, questions, and contributions.
Julian – Global Talon
Explore, Experience & Engage
Wonderfully informative article! Thank you!! Any thoughts on bringing pets (2 lab retrievers) over for up to a years stay?
Hey Michael,
Thanks for reading my piece and contributing to our knowledge base.
Honestly, I have a dream of adopting a stray cat I meet along my journeys and have him/her travel with me.
I have met several people who have brought their furry family members to Albania with them.
They told me that they enjoyed having them along.
Just a few points to consider.
1: There are vets and vet hospitals, but you will want to rely on the ones in Tirana.
2: The vets/hospitals are not always easy to get to, and to my knowledge, your dogs will not be able to ride with you on public transport.
3: There are a lot of stray dogs in Albania (in the Balkans actually in general) so be aware of that regarding walking through the streets with your 2 dogs.
4: Labs are big dogs, and you have 2 of them. I’m not sure how experienced you are with Europe in general, but apartments in Europe are much smaller than in the US (I’m guessing that is where you are). So, a place big enough for you and 2 large dogs may be a bit expensive/difficult to find depending upon your arrival date.
5: During your apartment search, make sure you inform the apartment owner that you have 2 dogs. It’s not just an issue about potential damage to the apartment, but a noise issue and the neighbors. You don’t want to have to find a new place a few months after getting settled in.
6: Also, be sure to have an apartment secured prior to arrival, not only will you need the address for the paperwork, but I’m not aware of any hotel (currently) that will allow you to have them.
7: Most important element in your planning is to be sure your current vet is USDA approved (if you are in the US) and your dogs have electronic chips. If not, those are your first moves. Both are required for bringing them to Albania.
Thanks again Michael for your comment, questions, and contributions.
Julian – Global Talon
Explore, Experience & Engage
What are the job opportunities that are available in Albania and what is the earnings like. Also is it easy to get.
Hey Elijah,
Thanks for reading my piece and contributing to our knowledge base.
This is a bit of a very specific area of interest, so I will provide a general answer here. But, if you would like to discuss this more in-depth, please note that I offer online consultations and you can contact me via email for more info about that; if you would like.
Honestly, the employment situation in Albania is bleak. There are several reasons for this, and one of them is definitely the War in Ukraine and how that has affected economies all over Europe.
For expats and digital nomads, Albania has a lot to offer.
For foreigners who are looking to get a job abroad, I cannot recommend Albania.
There are several international schools in Tirana and Durres that teach in English, and there have been some Americans who have come here for teaching or administrative roles in those schools.
But the pay is nothing like in the US or Europe and though it is above the average for jobs here, it is not very good money. The roles are also very difficult to get.
The schools genuinely want to hire Albanians who have been educated in the US and speak fluent Albanian & English.
Everyone that I have known that had one of those roles has also had to have a second job teaching English online to supplement their income.
As far as trying to get a work visa for Albania, that is the least common visa they ever issue, and I could not honestly tell you about the chances for having such approved.
I’m not sure where you are from Elijah, and what your skillset is, but do not rely on finding a job in Albania as part of your relocation plan; TBH.
Thanks again Elijah for your comment, questions, and contributions.
Julian – Global Talon
Explore, Experience & Engage