If you are considering moving to Europe, climate, cost of living, safety, and long-term potential are important considerations, we think Albania should be on your list.
Read our 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 located. Across the Adriatic from Italy, Albania is a beautiful country with just a 2-hour maximum flight from anywhere in Europe. It is easy to reach by air, sea, and land.
Albania can cater to any budget, from modest lifestyles to modern luxury living. Though generally laid-back, Albania can also satisfy active, even adventurous, lifestyle seekers.
Albania’s main seasons are spring, summer, and autumn. Most cities experience mild 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 are 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, though, it is only a momentary issue.
Tirana's urban and modern capital city is just a day trip from the whole 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, the country recognizes and represents Eastern and Western Rite Catholic, Christian, and Muslim holidays.
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.
Albania is an official EU candidate whose accession talks started in 2020. It joined the Council of Europe in 1995 and NATO in 2009.
The official currency is the LEK (ALL), which has held firm against the Euro and US dollar while still providing a low-cost standard of living.
The town of Pogradec and the Ohrid lake.
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.
UK and EU nationals have the typical 90 days, while Albania offers US citizens a very generous one-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 there.
- Requirements: Proof of property ownership, proof of financial means to support oneself, and health insurance.
Getting residency in Albania
Residency must be initiated within 30 days of entering the country. If you miss the 30-day mark, you can leave the country for one day and then enter again.
The process can be started using Albania’s electronic portal, e-Albania, which is offered in Albanian and English. However, you will need to go to an immigration office in person.
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 compared to many developed and Western countries.
Here is how the cost of living in Albania compares with some of the northern European and North American countries:
Data Source: Numbeo
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 expensive during summer. Negotiating an annual rental agreement close to a tourist area for a reasonable price can be very difficult. Generally, if you move away from tourist areas, you will find better value for your money.
Housing
The capital, Tirana, is the most expensive place to be. This is especially noticeable with the 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 modern and well-equipped, with everything 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-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment. Utilities can run approximately $100/85€ a month. Existing real estate is cheaper even in the same areas. A one-bedroom apartment in different areas of Albania can be found at varying costs, often reflecting the local amenities and proximity to key locations.
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 cost about $14.50/12.50€. For any long-term stay, you will need an Albanian SIM card.
Albania as a retirement destination
According to the Expatra Global Retirement Index, Albania is among the 20 best countries in which to retire.
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:
Data Source: Expatra Global Retirement Index
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.
Albania is an appealing retirement option due to its low cost of living, modern private healthcare and caregivers, affordable housing, and year-round good weather.
Additionally, recent legislative amendments have resulted in an important financial benefit for EU retirees: the exemption from taxes on their pensions. This can significantly reduce their cost of living.
Safety is another compelling reason to consider Albania for retirement. The country is known for its general public safety and notably low crime rates against foreigners, ensuring peace of mind for retirees.
The pleasant Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, also makes it attractive for retirees seeking a temperate environment.
Safety in a relatively safe country
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. Albania is relatively safe, although petty crimes like pick-pocketing occur in major cities.
The Albanian government is making efforts to improve the country's economy, employment opportunities, tourism industry, and infrastructure.
If you choose to live in one of the luxury residential communities, you may have some interesting neighbors, as well as ambassadors, politicians, and celebrities, will be your neighbors. But, regardless of where you live, encountering any violence is very rare.
The most common crime you’ll see is traffic violations. Albania is safe for single travelers, females, families, LGBTQ, and the elderly.
Travel connections
Albania is well-positioned for travelers wanting to explore Europe and Mediterranean destinations. International flights are available from and to many countries worldwide.
Air travel
Major airlines operate in Tirana International Airport (TIA), offering flights to and from Albania. These 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 round-trip prices 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. Ferry tickets start at 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, there is a relatively decent public bus network, but it can be overcrowded during peak hours. Furgons, conversely, are more prevalent in rural areas, making them convenient for local travel. The Albanian government is actively working to improve public transportation infrastructure to address these issues.
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 owning a car essential, especially if you live outside of urban centers.
Internet
The average download speed in urban areas is around 50 Mbps, while it can vary between 20 and 30 Mbps in rural areas.
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: starts 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 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/TownAverage Apartment PriceTirana$200,000Durres$150,000Vlore$120,000Shkoder$100,000Elbasan$90,000Fier$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, compared to Western European countries and other developed countries, Albania's healthcare infrastructure may seem lacking. Despite this, Albania's lower cost of living makes it an attractive option for retirees from more developed countries looking to maximize their pensions or retirement savings.
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 the bill is usually quite reasonable, depending on your deductible.
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 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 cardiology, urology, and dermatology.
Compare your international insurance options
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Expats in Albania
Foreign visitors are significant to Albania’s economy, and Albania welcomes foreigners 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.
Albanian culture, known for its rich hospitality and cultural nuances, greatly impacts expats by helping them integrate into the community through learning the language, participating in festivals, and building meaningful relationships with locals. 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 20% sales tax on virtually everything already included 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 over 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 verifying your residential address, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
- Residence permit: If you are a non-EU national living in Albania, you must 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, Albania has good and could-be-better elements. 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. While the majority of the options are concentrated in the Blloku district, you can find amazing places to eat all throughout Tirana.
Virtually every cuisine is available, from US-style steakhouses to incredibly fresh and excellent sushi. There is even an all-you-can-eat sushi event (average $20/17€) every weeknight.
2. Amazing nature, history, and Mediterranean climate
Running the entire 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.
Albanian cities are known for their vibrant nightlife, diverse leisure activities, and thriving expat communities. 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
The Albanian people are incredibly welcoming and hospitable. Their millennium-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 an effective public transport system is in place within the cities, going from one city to another can be very time-consuming and overwhelming.
In the summertime, it may take four buses and nearly two hours to get from Tirana to the beaches of Durres (30 minutes west). And these buses terminate rather early. Often, the final return is around 19:00 (7 p.m.).
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 shipping cost.
3. The Albanian language is difficult
Learning the Albanian language 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.
Learning the Albanian language presents both challenges and benefits for expats living and working in Albania. The language barrier can be a potential hurdle, but mastering the basics of the Albanian language is crucial for daily interactions and integration into the community.
Italian is widely spoken in the country. English is common in Tirana. People in all private hospitals, government agencies, and tourist areas speak good English. Most of the youth and young professionals also speak English.
Where expats live in Albania's capital city
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.
Read our "Best Places To Live In Albania As An Expat" guide for more information on various locations.
What you should know before you move to Albania
Albania is a small country that is still very much a cash-based society. Credit cards are accepted in malls, large markets, hotels, the Blloku district, and tourist venues. 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 northern regions.
Albania has three international airports and three international ferry ports. Due to their excessive prices, be cautious of ‘fake’ taxis; real taxis have yellow license plates.
Tirana has several lovely malls filled with high-end brands. Regardless of where you live, you may need to go to Tirana to do certain things or find specific 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 promising future while enjoying today as well.
Didn’t find what you were looking for or need further advice? Comment below, and we will do our best to help.
Other locations in the Balkans to consider:
You might find useful:
- 5 Cheapest Countries In Europe To Retire To
- Best South American Countries For Expats
- The Best Places To Retire In Europe For Quality Of Life
- 5 European Destinations With Great Weather All Year Round
- The 13 Cheapest Countries To Retire To
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.
