Albania Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Albania is fast becoming one of the most attractive destinations in Southeast Europe for international workers seeking stable, legal employment.

With its growing economy, expanding foreign investment, and straightforward visa process, the country offers genuine opportunities for both skilled and unskilled professionals from around the world.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Albania Work Visa and Work Permit — including eligibility, visa types, required documents, step-by-step procedures, fees, and benefits of working legally in Albania.

Why Work in Albania

1. A Fast-Growing Economy

Albania’s economy is steadily growing, supported by industries such as construction, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and IT services. The government’s focus on modernisation and foreign investment has created increasing demand for qualified international workers.

2. Growing Demand for Foreign Workers

Due to a shortage of local labour in various industries, Albanian employers are hiring skilled and semi-skilled workers from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Vietnam, the Philippines, and several African countries. There is robust demand in the construction, hospitality, logistics, and agriculture sectors.

3. Legal Pathway to Work and Live in Europe

Although Albania is not part of the European Union, it is an EU candidate country with an open and transparent visa policy. A work visa and residence permit in Albania provide a legal and stable entry point into the European labour market.

4. Affordable Living and Lifestyle

Albania offers one of the lowest costs of living in Europe, allowing foreign workers to save a substantial portion of their income while enjoying a high quality of life.

5. Safe and Friendly Environment

Known for its hospitality and natural beauty, Albania offers a peaceful environment and friendly communities where foreign nationals are warmly welcomed and easily integrated.

6. Pathway to Permanent Residence

After several years of legal employment and residence, foreign citizens can apply for Permanent Residence and later long-term settlement, offering greater stability and social benefits.

Understanding the Albanian Work Permit

A Work Permit in Albania is an official authorisation issued by the government that allows a foreign national to work legally for a specific employer.

It includes details such as your employer’s name, job position, and duration of employment. Without this permit, you cannot legally begin work or apply for a long-stay visa.

Issuing Authority

Work permits are issued by the National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES) under the Ministry of Finance and Economy in coordination with the Directorate of Migration and Border Affairs.

Validity

Most work permits are issued for one year and can be renewed as long as the employment relationship remains in place.

Types of Work Permits in Albania

Albania Work Visa (Type D Long-Stay Visa)

The Type D Long-Stay Visa enables non-EU nationals to enter Albania for work purposes and remain for a period exceeding 90 days. It is linked to an approved work permit and is the first step toward obtaining a residence permit.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a work visa, you must:

• Have a valid job offer or contract from an Albanian employer.
• Hold an approved work permit issued by NAES.
• Possess a passport valid for at least 12 months.
• Provide proof of accommodation in Albania.
• Have health insurance coverage.
• Show proof of sufficient financial means.
• Present a clean criminal record certificate.

Visa Validity

The Type D Visa is typically valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on the work contract and residence status.

Documents Required

From the Employer

• Completed work permit application form.
• Proof of company registration in Albania.
• Signed employment contract or job offer.
• Tax and social security registration documents.
• Proof of fee payment.
• Financial statements of the company.

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12-month validity).
• Two passport-size photographs.
• Approved work permit.
• Health insurance certificate.
• Proof of accommodation in Albania.
• Bank statement or financial proof.
• Police clearance certificate.
• Completed visa application form and payment receipt.

Step-by-Step Process for an Albania Work Visa

1. Receive a Job Offer
   You can secure a job offer from an Albanian employer registered with the Ministry of Finance and Economy.
2. Employer Applies for Work Permit
   Your employer applies to the National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES).
3. Work Permit Issuance
   Once approved, the work permit is issued, allowing you to proceed with your visa application.
4. Apply for Type D Visa
   Submit your visa application at the Albanian Embassy or the VFS Global centre in your home country.
5. Visa Processing
   The embassy reviews your documents and typically issues a decision within 15 to 30 working days.
6. Travel to Albania
   After visa approval, you can travel to Albania and begin your employment in accordance with the terms of your contract.
7. Apply for a Residence Permit
   Within 30 days of arrival, apply for a Residence Permit at the Local Immigration Office in Albania.

Processing Time

Fees and Costs

Additional costs include insurance, translation, and document legalisation.

Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Albania

Benefits of Working in Albania

• Legal employment under official government authorisation.
• Access to public healthcare and social benefits.
• Opportunity for family reunification.
• Transparent and well-organised visa process.
• Affordable cost of living and housing.
• Safe and welcoming environment.
• Pathway to long-term residence and stability.
• Growing demand for international professionals across industries.

Official Government Resources

• Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs: https://punetejashtme.gov.al
• Ministry of Finance and Economy: https://financa.gov.al
• National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES): https://akpa.gov.al
• Directorate of Migration: https://www.asp.gov.al

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who needs a work permit to work in Albania?

All non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals must obtain a valid work permit before starting employment in Albania.

2. Can I apply for a visa without a job offer?

No. A job offer or signed employment contract is mandatory before applying for a work visa.

3. Who applies for the work permit?

Your employer applies for the work permit on your behalf through the National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES).

4. What is the difference between a work permit and a work visa?

A work permit authorises employment in Albania, while a work visa permits legal entry and stay for the purpose of employment.

5. How long does the process take?

The process usually takes 45–90 working days, including both work permit and visa approvals.

6. How long is the work permit valid?

Work permits are typically valid for one year and can be renewed.

7. Can I change my employer in Albania?

Yes, but your new employer must apply for a new work permit before you can start working.

8. Can my family join me?

Yes. Once you have a residence permit, your spouse and children can apply for family reunification.

9. What are the visa and permit fees?

Visa fees range between €80 and €100, and work permit fees between €100 and €150.

10. Can I apply for permanent residence?

Yes. After several years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for Permanent Residence in Albania.

11. What happens if I work without a permit?

Working without authorisation is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, or entry bans.

12. Can I work for multiple employers?

Only if each employer obtains a separate work permit for you.

13. Do you know if knowledge of the Albanian language is required?

Basic English is widely accepted, but learning basic Albanian can improve workplace communication.

14. Do I need to renew my visa every year?

You can renew your residence permit and work authorisation before expiry.

15. Can I apply for a residence card after arrival?

Yes. Apply for your residence card at the local immigration office within 30 days of entry.

16. Can I travel across Europe with an Albanian visa?

No, Albania is not part of the Schengen Zone; however, you can apply for a Schengen visa once you are settled in Albania.

17. Which sectors hire the most foreigners?

Construction, logistics, manufacturing, and hospitality are the leading sectors hiring foreign workers.

18. What is the average salary in Albania?

Average salaries range from €700 to €1,200, depending on the job and level of experience.

19. Are seasonal jobs available?

Yes. Seasonal work permits are available for 6–9 months, primarily in the tourism and agriculture sectors.

20. How can I extend my stay?

Before your visa or permit expires, apply for a renewal of your residence and work permit through the official authorities.

Professional Assistance with M2S Group Sp. z o.o.

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides expert support for obtaining work visas, Work Permits, and residence permits in Albania.

Our specialists assist in documentation, embassy coordination, and legal verification to ensure a transparent and fully compliant process.

For step-by-step guidance and verified job opportunities in Albania, you can contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Today and begin your journey toward legal employment and a successful career in Europe.