Albania
1-year visa-free & Albanian Riviera
Albania offers a 1-year visa-free stay for many nationalities, stunning Mediterranean coastline, and remarkably low costs. This Balkan gem is rapidly emerging as a digital nomad destination with a new Digital Nomad Visa and EU candidate status.
Our framework evaluates Albania across 6 strategic pillars. Each pillar answers a key question that matters when planning your relocation strategy.
Profile Weight Distribution
How we score: Six strategic pillars with weighted sub-factors. Confidence indicators show data quality (●●● = verified, ●●○ = researched, ●○○ = editorial). Read our full methodology
Profile weighting: Different expat profiles prioritize different pillars. Select your profile above to see personalized rankings.
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Immigration Overview
Albania has undergone a remarkable transformation in the past decade. The Albanian Riviera rivals the Greek islands and Croatian coast at a fraction of the price. With a new digital nomad visa program and EU candidate status driving modernization, Albania is positioning itself as a serious option for location-independent workers.
We help you navigate the visa-free stay, digital nomad visa, and the practical aspects of life in Albania, from finding the right coastal town to understanding the unique besa code of Albanian hospitality.
Visa & Residency Pathways
1-Year Visa-Free Stay
Extended visa-free access for many nationalities
- 365 days in Albania
- US, UK, EU citizens eligible
- No income requirement
- Renewable by brief departure
Digital Nomad Visa
New program for remote workers
- Work remotely from Albania
- 1-year renewable permit
- Income requirement applies
- Formal residence status
Residence Permit
For employment or business
- Employment with Albanian company
- Business registration
- Property ownership
- 1-year renewable permits
Albanian Citizenship
After 5 years of residence
- 5 years legal residence
- Basic Albanian language
- Clean criminal record
- Dual citizenship allowed
Why Albania?
Albanian Riviera
Stunning Ionian and Adriatic coastline. Crystal-clear waters, hidden beaches, and charming villages. Greece vibes at 1/3 the price.
Extremely Affordable
Tirana apartments for $400-800/month. Meals for $3-7. One of the most affordable European countries.
EU Candidate
Albania is on the EU accession path. Infrastructure and institutions are modernizing rapidly. Early movers may benefit from rising values.
15% Flat Tax
Simple flat tax rate on income. Growing as a tax-efficient base for location-independent professionals.
Mountains & Nature
Albanian Alps (Accursed Mountains) are spectacular. UNESCO sites like Berat and Gjirokastra. Diverse landscapes in a small country.
Besa Hospitality
The besa code means your word and honor. Albanians take hospitality extremely seriously. Guests are treated with exceptional warmth.
General Requirements
For the 1-year visa-free stay:
- Valid passport (3+ months beyond stay)
- No advance visa for US, EU, UK citizens
- Proof of accommodation helpful
- Health insurance recommended
Albania has progressively liberalized its visa regime. The 1-year visa-free stay is among the most generous in Europe. The new digital nomad visa provides a more formal path for those who want official residence status.
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