Work Visa Process for Foreigners in Albania — 2026 Full Guide
Quick summary: To legally work in Albania, most foreigners go through three main steps: obtaining a Type D long-stay visa → entering the country → applying for the Unique Permit (which combines residence and work authorization). Below, we break it all down — clearly and step by step.
1) Work Visa Process Overview
| Situation | What You Need to Do | Quick Note |
|---|---|---|
| Planning to stay and work for over 90 days | Type D Long-Stay Visa (for entry) + Unique Permit (residence + work) | D Visa allows entry and later residence permit application. |
| Entering visa-free but intending to work | Apply for a Unique Permit after entry | Your entry reason must match your work permit reason. |
| Highly skilled professional | Blue AL Card | Special “Unique Permit” for skilled workers. |
| Remote (digital) worker | Digital Mobile Worker permit | Requires proof of remote contract, income, and insurance. |
2) Who Needs a Work Visa or Permit?
Any foreign national planning to work in Albania (whether employed or self-employed) must usually obtain a Type D Visa and then apply for a Unique Permit — unless covered by a specific exemption (e.g. certain EU nationals).
The D Visa allows stays over 90 days and gives the right to apply for residence upon arrival. Under the Law on Foreigners (No. 79/2021), the Unique Permit is the main framework combining residence and work authorization.
3) Visa and Permit Types (D Visa, Unique Permit, Blue AL Card, etc.)
Type D Long-Stay Visa
- Purpose: Stay over 90 days and apply for residence/work permit after entry.
- Apply through: The official e-Visa Portal or Albanian consulates.
Unique Permit (Residence + Work)
The Unique Permit allows both living and working in Albania through a single application. Main subcategories include:
- Employee / Self-employed
- Seasonal worker
- Intra-company transfer (ICT)
- Frontier worker
- Volunteer / Trainee / Athlete
- Blue AL Card (for highly skilled workers)
- Digital Mobile Worker (remote professionals)
| Type | Who It’s For | Typical Duration / Note |
|---|---|---|
| Employee | Foreigners with an Albanian employment contract | Duration usually matches the work contract |
| Self-employed / Investor | Entrepreneurs or business owners | You must show economic contribution and sufficient capital |
| Blue AL Card | Highly skilled professionals | Issued for 2 years + renewable for 3 years |
| Digital Mobile Worker | Remote employees or freelancers | Valid for 1 year; requires income, housing & insurance proof |
4) Step-by-Step Application Process
- Secure a job offer or contract. Required for employee permits.
- Employment Authorization (AKPA/NAES): Get employer approval from the National Agency for Employment and Skills. EU citizens are exempt (they only need a “Deklarim për punësim”).
- Apply for the D Visa: Submit through e-visa.al or Albanian consulates.
- Enter Albania once your visa is approved (or visa-free if eligible).
- Apply for the Unique Permit: After entry, apply online or via your local Border & Migration Office.
- Receive a Temporary Electronic Permit within 5 days after submission. This serves as proof while your final card is printed.
- Register Your Address & Provide Biometrics: Within 30 days of approval, complete your address registration and biometric data submission.
- Employer’s Obligation: Must notify the authorities within 8 days after the foreign employee starts work.
- Visa: e-visa.al & Consular Info
- Unique Permit: Ministry of Interior Guide
- Employment Authorization: AKPA / NAES Portal
5) Document Checklist
- Valid Passport
- D Visa approval (if applicable)
- Employment contract or offer letter
- Employment authorization (AKPA) — not required for EU citizens
- Proof of accommodation (rental contract, property deed, etc.)
- Health insurance
- Proof of income or funds (for investors, freelancers, digital workers)
- Criminal record certificate (from your home country)
- Biometric photos + fee receipt
6) Processing Time & Fees
- Unique Permit processing: Typically 4–12 weeks. You’ll receive a temporary electronic permit within 5 days of submission.
- Address registration & card issuance: Within 30 days after approval.
- Fees: Visa, residence, and permit fees vary by nationality and permit type. Always check the latest government tariffs before applying.
- Work start notice: Employers must notify within 8 days after employment begins.
7) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply for a Unique Permit without a D Visa?
Some nationalities can enter visa-free and apply afterward, but the reason for entry and permit must match. Always verify your visa regime first.
Do EU citizens need employment authorization?
No. EU citizens are exempt from AKPA approval — they only submit a declaration (Deklarim për punësim).
What is the Blue AL Card?
It’s a residence + work permit designed for highly skilled workers. Initially valid for 2 years and renewable for up to 3 more.
Can I move to Albania as a digital nomad?
Yes. Remote professionals can apply under the Digital Mobile Worker category if they meet requirements for income, remote contracts, housing, and health insurance.
When can I apply for permanent residence?
Generally, after five years of continuous legal stay with valid permits, you may qualify for permanent residence.
8) Practical Tips & Warnings
- Use only official websites: e-visa.al for visa applications and mb.gov.al for residence/permit details.
- Plan your timeline: Final permit approval may take up to 12 weeks, but the temporary electronic permit arrives within 5 days.
- Employer duties: The employer must report your start of work within 8 days.
- EEAT note: This guide is for informational purposes. Always confirm details through official government sources before making legal or immigration decisions.
Disclaimer: This article is not legal advice.