Who Needs to Register?
Address registration (“declaration of residence”) applies to anyone living in Albania—citizens and foreign residents—who has a residence or place of residence in the country. The government has confirmed that the process is now handled exclusively online via e-Albania for declaring, changing, or correcting your address.
Before You Begin (What You’ll Need)
- e-Albania account with login credentials (citizens and eligible foreigners can access the portal).
- Digital copies of your proof of address (see accepted documents below).
- Household details if you’re declaring on behalf of family members living with you.
Tip: Scan or photograph your documents clearly. Make sure names and addresses match your lease/ownership certificate.
Step-by-Step: Registering on e-Albania
Accepted Proof of Address
| Document | What it Shows | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Property Ownership Certificate | You (or a household member) own the home. | Upload the latest certificate from the cadaster/registry. |
| Notarized Lease Agreement | You rent the home legally. | Ensure the address, term, and names are clear and current. |
| Loan-for-Use / Use Agreement | You’re allowed to live there without rent. | Common when staying with relatives/friends; notarization is usually required. |
| Other lawful proof | Any legal document that proves residence at the declared address. | Follow the service instructions on e-Albania for accepted formats. |
Municipal note: In Tirana, the city specifies that foreign residents with a valid residence permit can register their address and that the service is free.
Fees, Timing & Confirmation
- Fee: Free of charge for the address declaration service (per municipal guidance).
- Processing time: Often immediate once submitted correctly.
- Proof: Keep the digital confirmation or receipt you receive from e-Albania.
Notes for Foreigners & Families
- Foreign residents: If you hold or are obtaining a residence permit, you’re expected to declare your residential address online. Some municipalities allow you to do this immediately once you have the necessary documents.
- Head-of-household: The platform allows the household head to submit for family members living at the same address (spouse, children), provided the documents cover everyone.
- Language: e-Albania provides English interfaces for many services, which helps newcomers navigate the process smoothly.
Common mistakes
- Uploading an unsigned lease or a draft without notary/legalization where required.
- Typos in names or addresses that don’t match your document.
- Forgetting to update the address again after you move.
Special Situations (Short Lets, Roommates, Moves)
- Short-term stays (hotels/hostels): Tourists in temporary accommodation are typically registered by the provider; self-declaration is geared toward residents with a long-term address.
- Roommates/house shares: If your name isn’t on the lease or deed, ask the owner to issue a notarized authorization (or add you to the lease) so you can declare legally.
- Moving again? Submit a new declaration online as soon as you sign your new lease or complete a property purchase.
FAQ
Do I have to go in person?
No—current rules make the declaration online-only via e-Albania, except limited cases handled by the administration (e.g., special institutions).
What if my lease is month-to-month?
Month-to-month is fine if it’s a lawful, notarized lease that clearly shows your address and identity.
Can my landlord register me?
The household head can submit on behalf of co-residents, but you should keep your own login and confirmation.
Is there a deadline?
Authorities emphasize declaring the address as soon as you move and keeping it up to date; specific timing may be set by your municipality or service provider.
What if I make a mistake?
You can correct your address through the same online service; in some cases the administration may fix clear errors automatically.
Official Sources
- Albania Ministry of Internal Affairs: Announcement on electronic address declaration and required proof (ownership, lease, loan-for-use). Read the notice.
- Government decision covered in national media: e-Albania is the online-only channel for declaring, changing, or correcting your address. Panorama • SCAN TV • Syri.
- City of Tirana (Municipality) – Foreign residents: Service page for address declaration; free and typically processed immediately. View details.
Disclaimer: Rules evolve. Always double-check the latest instructions on e-Albania and your local municipality before applying.
