Your Complete Guide to the Albania Work Visa: Requirements, Process, and Job Opportunities

Albania is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for foreign workers, thanks to steady economic growth, expanding industries, and rising labour shortages across construction, tourism, agriculture, and services. Located strategically in Southeast Europe and known for its affordable living and friendly environment, Albania offers promising job opportunities for workers from Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe.

Whether you're seeking secure employment, long-term residency options, or experience in Europe’s labour market, an Albanian work visa can open the door to a stable and rewarding future.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know—explained and clearly.

Why Apply for an Albania Work Visa?

Albania offers several advantages for foreign workers:

• Fast and straightforward work visa procedures
• Growing demand in construction, tourism, agriculture, and services
• Lower cost of living compared to most European countries
• Safe and welcoming environment
• Opportunities for long-term residence
• Employer-sponsored job options and career growth

Step-by-Step Albania Work Visa Process

Step 1: Secure a job offer from a registered Albanian employer

Only legally registered companies can hire foreign nationals.

Step 2: Employer applies for your Work Permit

The employer submits your work permit request to the National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES).

Step 3: Receive your approved Work Permit

Once approved, your employer sends you the official documentation.

Step 4: Book an appointment at the Albanian Embassy or Consulate

Could you schedule a date to submit your visa application and biometrics?

Step 5: Submit your documents and complete biometrics

Bring all required documents, including the approved work permit.

Step 6: Attend the visa interview

You may be asked about your job, employer, and intention to work in Albania.

Step 7: Visa decision and travel to Albania

After approval, the work visa (Type D Visa) is stamped into your passport.

Albania Work Visa From Abroad

Foreign workers must apply for the Type D Long-Stay Visa after receiving a work permit issued in Albania. Most applicants apply through the Albanian Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

The process can only begin once the employer has applied for and secured your work permit.

Types of Albanian Employment Permits

1. Work Permit (Type A)

Issued to foreign nationals hired by Albanian companies.

2. Work Registration Certificate

Required for seasonal and short-term employment.

3. Work Permit for Highly Skilled Workers

For professionals in engineering, IT, education, and specialised sectors.

4. Work Permit for Seasonal Employment

Common in agriculture, tourism, and hospitality.

5. Permanent or Long-Term Work Permit

Issued to foreigners with long-term residence rights.

6. Type D Long-Stay Visa

The entry visa allows you to enter Albania to begin employment.

Benefits of an Albanian Work Permit

• Legal permission to work and live in Albania
• Opportunity to obtain long-term residence
• Safe working conditions under Albanian labour law
• Ability to renew your work permit annually
• Lower competition for jobs compared to Western Europe
• Employer-backed benefits and career development
• Possibility of family reunification after meeting requirements

Eligibility for an Albania Work Visa

To apply, you must have:

• A valid job offer from a registered Albanian employer
• Approved work permit from the Albanian authorities
• Skills relevant to the position
• Valid passport
• Clean criminal record
• Proof of accommodation in Albania
• Health insurance

Albania Work Visa Requirements

Most applicants must submit:

• Valid passport (minimum 1-year validity)
• Completed Type D visa application form
• Passport-size photographs
• Approved Work Permit
• Employment contract
• Proof of accommodation
• Police clearance certificate
• Travel/health insurance
• Bank statement (if required)
• Visa application fee receipt
• Cover letter explaining your purpose of travel

The embassy may request additional documents depending on your nationality.

How to Apply for an Albania Work Visa (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Find a legitimate Albanian employer

Could you make sure the employer is legally registered in Albania?

Step 2: Employer applies for your Work Permit

Submitted to the National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES).

Step 3: Receive the approved permit

The employer sends you the original documentation.

Step 4: Schedule your embassy or consulate appointment

Submit your Type D Visa application.

Step 5: Submit all required documents

Could you make sure there are no mismatches or incomplete information?

Step 6: Attend the visa interview

Could you answer clearly about your job duties and employer?

Step 7: Visa approval and travel

Once approved, you can enter Albania and start working.

Tips to Avoid Albania Work Visa Rejection

• Apply only through verified employers
• Submit complete, consistent, and genuine documents
• Ensure your job role matches your qualifications
• Never use unlicensed agents
• Prepare well for the interview
• Keep your passport valid and in good condition
• Avoid unclear or mismatched information in forms

Top In-Demand Occupations in Albania

Below is a detailed list of the most in-demand jobs in Albania, including salary ranges and basic requirements.

Occupation	Monthly Salary (EUR)	Requirements	Suitable For
Construction Laborer	€450 – €700	Physical fitness	Labourers
Mason/Carpenter/Plumber	€500 – €800	Skilled trade experience	Skilled workers
Electrician	€500 – €850	Qualification required	Skilled technicians
Welder	€550 – €900	Welding experience	Technicians
Factory Worker	€400 – €650	No experience required	Beginners
Machine Operator	€450 – €750	Technical skills	Semi-skilled workers
Warehouse Worker	€400 – €650	Basic fitness	Entry-level workers
Truck Driver	€600 – €1,000	C/CE license	Professional drivers
Restaurant Waiter/Bar Staff	€350 – €550	English preferred	Hospitality staff
Chef/Cook	€450 – €900	Kitchen experience	Culinary workers
Housekeeping/Cleaners	€300 – €500	No experience needed	Beginners
Caregiver	€400 – €650	Basic training	Supportive workers
Nurse	€600 – €1,000	Nursing qualification	Healthcare staff
Sales Assistant	€350 – €550	Basic communication	Retail workers
IT Specialist	€700 – €1,500	IT skills	Professionals
Software Developer	€900 – €2,000	Coding experience	Programmers
Mechanical Engineer	€700 – €1,300	Degree required	Engineers
Tourism & Hotel Workers	€350 – €600	Basic English	Hospitality sector
Agriculture/Seasonal Workers	€300 – €500	Physical fitness	Seasonal workers

Summary of Albania’s Most Needed Job Sectors

1. Construction & Skilled Trades

Massive infrastructure development fuels high demand.

2. Manufacturing & Industrial Work

Factories require labourers, machine operators, and production staff.

3. Tourism & Hospitality

Hotels, restaurants, and cafes hire year-round.

4. Agriculture & Seasonal Employment

Fruits, vegetables, and olive farms hire thousands of workers.

5. Retail & Customer Service

Shops and supermarkets often employ foreign workers.

6. IT & Digital Services

Growing demand for IT professionals in Tirana and Durrës.

Albania Work Visa Processing Time

• Work Permit Approval: 2–6 weeks
• Visa Processing (Embassy): 10–30 days
• Total Timeline: 1.5–3 months

Processing time varies depending on embassy workload.

Albania Work Visa Cost

Typical expenses include:

• Visa Fee: €30 – €60
• Travel Insurance: €10 – €30
• Document Legalization/Apostille: €10 – €40
• Translation Fees: Varies

Some employers may cover the cost of the work permit.

Official Government Job Portals in Albania

Albania offers several government-managed platforms where foreigners can find verified job opportunities and official information on work permits.

National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES)

The central government job portal for Albania.

Website: https://www.akpa.gov.al

Portal features:

• Verified job listings
• Labour market information
• Work permit guidelines
• Employer services
• Foreign worker regulations

EURES – European Job Mobility Portal

Albania cooperates through regional labour mobility programs.

Website: https://eures.ec.europa.eu

EURES provides:

• Verified job opportunities
• Expert guidance on working conditions
• Employer contact options

Government Work Permit Information

Official guidelines for foreign workers are provided by Albania’s Ministry of Finance and Economy.

Website: https://www.finance.gov.al

Includes:

• Types of work permits
• Employer obligations
• Requirements for foreign workers
• Legal procedures

Temporary Residence Permit in Albania

Once you enter Albania with a Type D Visa, you must apply for a Residence Permit for Employment.

Official Info: https://e-albania.al

This platform explains:

• Required documents
• Processing time
• Validity periods
• Renewal steps

Official Visa Information – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Website: https://punetejashtme.gov.al

Here you can find:

• Visa requirements
• Embassy listings
• Application guidelines
• Entry rules

Locate Albanian Embassies and Consulates

Use the official government directory:

Website: https://punetejashtme.gov.al/en/missions/

Safe Use of Government Portals

When applying:

• Avoid unlicensed agents
• Verify employer registration
• Follow only official government websites
• Never pay for job offers
• Check work permit legitimacy through NAES

How Can M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Help You?

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. is one of the EU region’s most trusted immigration support companies, providing clear, transparent, and personalised assistance.

Our services include:

• Free eligibility assessment
• One-on-one career consultation
• Complete Albania work visa guidance
• Document preparation and verification
• Job search support across Europe
• Training for language and skill requirements
• End-to-end support until your process is complete

Whether you're planning to work in Albania or considering broader European opportunities, our experts ensure you receive reliable, accurate, and customised assistance at every step.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Albania Work Visa

1. What is an Albanian work visa?

An Albanian work visa is a long-stay D-category visa issued to foreign nationals planning to enter Albania for employment after securing a job and requiring work authorisation.

2. Who needs an Albania work visa?

All non-EU, non-Schengen, and non-Western Balkan citizens require a work visa and residence permit to work legally in Albania.

3. What is the work permit in Albania called?

The primary document is the Work Permit (Leje Pune) or the Employment Declaration, depending on the job type.

4. Who applies for the work permit—the employer or the worker?

The employer must initiate the work permit process through the Albanian Labour and Migration Office.

5. Can I work in Albania without a work permit?

No. Foreign workers must have both a work permit and a residence permit to work legally.

6. Can I apply for an Albanian work visa without a job offer?

No. You'll need a valid job offer or employment contract from an Albanian employer.

7. What documents are required for the Albania work visa?

Common requirements include:

• Valid passport
• Visa application form
• Employment contract
• Employer invitation letter
• Proof of accommodation
• Police clearance certificate
• Health insurance
• Passport photos
• Visa fee receipt

8. How long does the Albania work permit process take?

Work permit processing typically takes 7–30 days, depending on the job type and the documentation provided.

9. How long does the visa processing take at the embassy?

Visa processing usually takes 10–30 days, depending on your country of application.

10. How long is the Albanian work visa valid?

Most work visas are valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually.

11. Can I extend my stay in Albania?

Yes. Temporary Residence Permits can be extended based on employment continuity.

12. Can I change employers while in Albania?

Yes, but your new employer must apply for a new work permit, and you must update your residence permit.

13. What is the Albanian Residence Permit for employment?

It is the legal document that allows a foreign national to live and work in Albania long-term after entering on a D visa.

14. Would you like me to submit biometrics?

Yes. Biometrics are collected at the Migration Office when applying for your residence permit.

15. Is a criminal background check required?

Yes. A clean police clearance from your home country is mandatory.

16. Is health insurance required?

Yes. Foreign workers must have valid health insurance during the visa and residence process.

17. Are medical tests necessary for Albania?

Some applicants may be asked to provide medical certificates depending on job type and embassy rules.

18. Do I need to speak Albanian to work in Albania?

Basic Albanian is useful, but many employers in factories, tourism, service, and construction accept non-Albanian speakers. Skilled roles may require English.

19. Which industries hire the most foreign workers in Albania?

High-demand sectors include:

• Construction
• Tourism & hospitality
• Agriculture
• Garment & textile factories
• Manufacturing & production
• Call centres/BPO
• IT & engineering

20. Is Albania a good destination for foreign workers?

Yes. Albania offers growing employment demand, affordable living costs, low taxes, and easier entry than many EU countries.

21. Can I bring my family to Albania?

Yes, after obtaining your Temporary Residence Permit, family members can apply for reunification.

22. Can I work in other countries using an Albanian work visa?

No. The Albanian work visa is valid only within Albania.

23. Can I travel to EU countries using an Albanian visa?

No. Albania is not part of the Schengen Zone. You must apply separately for Schengen visas.

24. What is the minimum wage in Albania?

As of the latest update, the minimum wage is around €350–€400 per month, depending on employer and sector.

25. Does Albania provide overtime pay?

Yes. The Albanian Labour Code requires employers to pay additional rates for overtime, night shifts, and holidays.

26. Do employers provide accommodation in Albania?

Some employers—especially in factories, agriculture, and hospitality—offer free or subsidised accommodation.

27. Are meals included by employers?

Many workplaces offer free meals or meal allowances, depending on the company.

28. What happens if my employer cancels the job offer?

Your visa may be refused, or your residence permit may not be granted, unless you secure a new employer.

29. Do embassies verify job offers?

Yes. Albanian embassies may contact employers to verify employment documents.

30. Are bank statements required for the visa?

Bank statements may be required depending on embassy rules or if sponsorship is unclear.

31. Can I apply directly without using an agent?

Yes. Albania allows independent applications to be submitted directly through embassies and official government portals.

32. What are standard working hours in Albania?

Workers usually work 40 hours per week with paid overtime for additional hours.

33. Does Albania accept fixed-term contracts?

Yes. Most foreign workers start with 1-year contracts, renewable annually.

34. Can I apply for permanent residency in Albania?

Yes. Foreigners may apply for permanent residence after five continuous years of legal stay.

35. Can international students switch to a work permit in Albania?

Yes. Students who obtain a job offer can transition to a work-based residence permit.

36. Is there an age limit for Albania work visas?

There is no official age limit, but employers generally prefer workers aged 20–55.

37. Can I work part-time with a work permit?

Only if your work permit and employment contract specify part-time arrangements.

38. How do employers legally hire foreigners?

Employers must:

1. Submit a job offer
2. Apply for your work permit
3. Ensure compliance with labour laws
4. Register your employment officially

39. Are Albanian job offers guaranteed?

No. Applicants should verify all offers to protect themselves from fake recruiters.

40. What does the Albanian Labour Office do?

They review employer compliance, labour market needs, and issue work permits.

41. Can I start working immediately after arriving in Albania?

You may start work only after receiving your work permit and submitting your residence permit application.

42. What is the Albania Temporary Residence Card?

It is the official ID card issued to foreigners legally residing in Albania.

43. Must I register my address in Albania?

Yes. Please register your residence with the authorities within the required timeframe.

44. Can I work while my work permit is processing?

No. Work can begin only after the work permit is approved.

45. Can seasonal workers extend their stay in Albania?

Yes, but only by switching to a standard employment contract and applying for a new permit.

46. Does the employer pay for the work permit?

Many employers cover the work permit costs, but this depends on the employment agreement.

47. What is the average time for completing the full Albania work visa process?

From job offer to visa and residence approval, the whole process takes 1.5 to 3 months.

48. Do my documents need to be translated into Albanian?

Yes. A certified Albanian translator must translate all official documents.

49. Can I switch from seasonal or temporary work to long-term employment?

Yes. You must secure a long-term contract and apply for a new work permit and residence card.

50. Is Albania suitable for long-term settlement?

Yes. Albania offers low living costs, straightforward renewal procedures, demand for foreign workers, and eligibility for long-term residency after a continuous legal stay.