Digital Nomad Visa in Albania Explained — Live and Work Remotely with the “Leje Unike”
Summary: Albania welcomes remote professionals through its “Leje Unike” (Unique Permit) — officially recognized as the “Digital Mobile Worker” category. This combined residence and work permit grants foreigners the right to live and work remotely in Albania while employed or contracted abroad. The initial term is 1 year (renewable), and citizens of the U.S., EU, and Kosovo may receive up to 5 years immediately. Applications are entirely online and require proof of income, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and a remote work contract.
Quick Overview & Key Criteria
- Status: Leje Unike – Digital Mobile Worker
- Initial term: 1 year (up to 5 years for U.S., EU, Kosovo).
- Income requirement: Monthly ≥ 32,000 ALL or bank proof of ≥ 300,000 ALL.
- Work connection: You must work for a foreign employer or have international clients.
- Mandatory: Valid health insurance, police clearance, accommodation proof.
- Where to apply: Entirely online via e-Albania.
Note: Official requirements and fees can change. Always double-check on e-Albania before applying.
What Is the Leje Unike (Unique Permit)?
The Leje Unike is Albania’s unified residence and work permit system established under Law No. 79/2021 on Foreigners. It includes the Digital Mobile Worker category, allowing professionals to legally reside in Albania while working remotely for foreign entities. Under Article 68, the first permit can be issued for up to one year and extended afterward.
Who Qualifies?
- Remote professionals: You work online for a foreign employer or freelance client.
- Financially stable: You meet the income or savings threshold.
- Clean background: You can provide a valid police certificate, accommodation proof, and insurance.
Good to know: U.S., EU, and Kosovo passport holders may qualify for a 5-year permit immediately, with adjusted fees.
Income or Financial Proof
| Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly income | ≥ 32,000 ALL | Salary slips, freelance contracts, or invoices are accepted. |
| Bank guarantee | ≥ 300,000 ALL (annual) | Proof of funds in an Albanian or international account. |
Required Documents
- Valid passport (including ID page and entry/exit stamps).
- Biometric photo (recent, 47×36 mm).
- Proof of accommodation (lease or hotel booking).
- Foreign employment or freelance contract.
- Income or savings proof.
- Police certificate (translated/legalized if needed).
- Health insurance covering 12 months.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Submit online: On e-Albania, choose service code 15146 (“Digital Mobile Worker”).
- Pay fees: Application and visa fees (if applicable) are paid digitally.
- Temporary approval: You receive a provisional permit within 5 days.
- Processing time: Typically 4–12 weeks.
- Register address: Within 30 days after approval, then attend biometric appointment.
- Collect card: Permit card ready within 2 weeks.
Duration, Fees & Visa Type
- Duration: 1 year (or 5 years for U.S./EU/Kosovo).
- Fee: 4,500 ALL (first issue) / 2,250 ALL (renewal).
- 5-year option: 12,000 ALL.
- D/LD visa: Usually processed in 15 days (max 30).
Taxation & 12-Month Exemption Rule
According to Law No. 25/2022 (Start-Up Law), digital nomads are not considered tax residents for their first 12 months in Albania — even if they live there full-time.
After 12 months (or 183+ days per year), tax residency may apply, meaning worldwide income could be taxable. Consult a tax advisor before long-term settlement.
For employers: Hiring a digital nomad in Albania does not automatically create a “permanent establishment” under the same law — a major benefit for global companies.
Family Reunification
Leje Unike holders can bring their spouse and dependent children. Family members receive 1-year renewable residence cards and must show proof of income, accommodation, and clean records.
Tips & Common Mistakes
- Documents must be issued within 6 months and translated into Albanian.
- Ensure your contract clearly states remote work terms.
- Complete address registration within 30 days.
- U.S. citizens: Can stay visa-free for up to 1 year, but residence cards simplify life (banking, SIM, car rental).
- Remember: Albania is not in Schengen; this permit doesn’t grant Schengen travel rights.
FAQ — Common Questions
1) Is there an official “Digital Nomad Visa”?
It’s officially the Leje Unike – Digital Mobile Worker permit, though it’s commonly called a “digital nomad visa.”
2) Can I work for an Albanian company?
No. The permit is designed for foreign employment or contracts. Local work requires a different authorization.
3) Can I apply from abroad?
Yes. You can apply online via e-Albania. Some nationalities may need a D/LD visa first.
4) Can I use savings instead of income proof?
Yes. A minimum balance of 300,000 ALL per person per year is acceptable.
5) Do I pay taxes during the first year?
No. Digital mobile workers are exempt from tax residency for 12 months.
6) How long does the process take?
Permit review: 4–12 weeks. Visa (if required): around 15 days.
Official Sources
- Ministry of Interior: Residence/Unique Permit (Digital Mobile Worker)
- Law No. 79/2021: Law on Foreigners
- Law No. 25/2022: Start-Up Law
- Type D Visa: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- U.S. Embassy Tirana: Visa-Free Entry Info
- PwC Albania Tax Summary: Tax Residency Overview
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult official government sources or a licensed advisor before applying.