Albania Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements & Application Guide

The Albania digital nomad visa, officially known as the Unique Permit for Digital Mobile Workers, was introduced in early 2022 as part of a broader reform under Law 79/2021 “On Foreigners.” This Type D visa allows remote workers employed by foreign companies or self-employed individuals working with international clients to live and work from Albania for up to one year, with the option to renew annually for a total of five years.

Does Albania Have a Digital Nomad Visa?

Albania does not have a visa officially titled “digital nomad visa,” but the Unique Permit for Digital Mobile Workers serves that function. It falls under the Type D Long Stay visa category, which offers a legal pathway for remote workers to reside in Albania while working for a foreign employer or client.

This visa streamlines the process through a centralized digital platform, significantly reducing red tape compared to earlier systems requiring separate applications to various officials.

Benefits of the Albania Digital Nomad Visa

The Unique Permit provides several perks that make it an appealing option for digital nomads.

• Stay up to 5 years with the ability to apply for permanent residency afterward
• Fully digital application process, no embassy or consulate visits required
• Affordable cost of living with Mediterranean beaches and mountain escapes
• Access to EU-like amenities without needing a Schengen visa
• Albania allows family members to be included in your application

Who Can Apply for the Albania Digital Nomad Visa?

To apply, you must:

• Work remotely for a foreign company or client
• Earn a minimum of approximately $9,800 per year
• Be able to demonstrate professional qualifications (e.g. degree, certification)
• Show financial self-sufficiency through bank statements or contracts
• Have health insurance valid in Albania with coverage of at least €30,000
• Show proof of accommodation and a bank account in a recognized Albanian bank
• Provide a clean criminal record from countries where you’ve lived in the last 5 years

Documents Required for Applying for the Albania Digital Nomad Visa

Prepare your documents before you start, and make sure they're in PDF format for uploading to the portal:

• Copy of valid passport
• Passport-sized photo
• Employment contract with a foreign employer or service contract with a remote client
• Proof of professional qualifications (degree, certification, etc.)
• Proof of financial means (bank statements, payslips, contracts)
• Proof of accommodation in Albania (lease agreement, hotel booking, etc.)
• A bank account confirmation from an Albanian second-tier bank (e.g., ABI, BKT, ProCredit)
• Proof of valid health insurance in Albania with €30,000 minimum coverage
• Clean criminal record issued in the last 6 months, with apostille if applicable

How to Apply for the Albania Digital Nomad Visa

The application is entirely online and must be submitted before entering Albania.

1. Go to the Albania e-visa portal and create an account using your name and email.
2. Select “Apply Now,” then choose “Type D Visa” and the option for “digital mobile worker.”
3. Fill out all fields, including personal info, passport details, employment info, and your address in Albania.
4. Upload all required supporting documents in either English or Albanian. Documents in other languages must include an official translation.
5. Pay your visa fee online via credit card.
6. Submit your application and receive a tracking number to monitor the status online.

How Much Does the Albania Digital Nomad Visa?

The visa fee is based on reciprocity, meaning what an Albanian would pay for a visa to your country of residence. For most European applicants, the cost lands around €100. U.S. applicants may pay more depending on current diplomatic rates.

Timeline for Applying For the Albania Digital Nomad Visa

The legal maximum processing time is 12 weeks from the date of application, though many applicants are seeing decisions in 4 to 6 weeks.

A tracking number is issued upon submission so you can follow your application status online.

After approval, you’ll receive an e-document by email. Present this upon entering Albania to receive the appropriate visa stamp at border control.

What If I'm Not Eligible for the Unique Permit as a Digital Nomad?

If you don’t meet the criteria for this visa, you still have a few options:

• Tourist Visa: Allows stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. U.S. and Kosovo citizens may stay for up to one year visa-free.
• Self-Employed D Visa: Similar to the Unique Permit; ideal if you operate your own business providing services internationally.
• Investor or Highly Qualified Employee Visa: These may apply if your profession fits their criteria.

Other European countries also offer digital nomad visas, including Croatia, Greece, Italy, and Montenegro.

Paying Taxes as a Digital Nomad in Albania

• Living in Albania on this visa classifies you as a tax resident, requiring you to declare and pay tax on your worldwide income.
• There are no double taxation treaties with the U.S., Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, which may result in dual taxation scenarios.
• Personal income tax in Albania is 15% on income up to ~$1,400/month, and 23% on income exceeding that level.

Given the complexity and potential variation in tax obligations as a digital nomad in Albania, it's recommended that you seek advice from a professional tax consultant prior to deciding to work remotely from Albania.

Are You Ready To Live and Work in Albania as a Digital Nomad?

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