Albania

The Land of Eagles
and Wonders

Flag of Albania

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Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Albania.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in Albania.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from these nations can enter Albania with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from these nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Albania.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Albania without an additional visa.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without an Albanian visa.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa.

ID Card Entry
The following citizens can enter Albania using only a valid national ID card:

  • European Union (EU) member states
  • European Economic Area (EEA) countries
  • Switzerland
  • Turkey
  • Montenegro
  • Serbia
  • North Macedonia
  • Kosovo

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions.
Toll

Driving in Albania

As of 2025, the main toll road in Albania is:

  • The Rruga e Kombit (Nation's Road): Connecting Milot to Morine (Kosovo border), including the Kalimash Tunnel.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Albanian Road Authority website: https://www.arrsh.gov.al/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Albanian Lek (ALL) is accepted at all toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll booths.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is being implemented. Check https://e-albania.al/ for updates.

Driving in Albania

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 110 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution, especially on rural roads.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver's license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Albania is considering implementing a vignette system for road use. Check https://www.arrsh.gov.al/ for the latest information.
  • Road Safety: Albania has been improving road safety, but remain vigilant, especially at night or in mountainous areas.
  • GPS and Maps: While GPS is generally reliable, keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Albanian Currency

The official currency of Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10000 Lek
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 Lek
  • Symbol: L (sometimes written as Lek)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct Lek withdrawals

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Albania website: https://www.bankofalbania.org/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Albania

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Albania, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing Kosovo's political status.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits:

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items:

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues:

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints:

  • Submit grievances to the Tourism Office Inspectorate or Customer Protection Commission.

Beach Access:

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated.

Key Resources

  • Albanian Tourism Agency (Tourist rights & complaints)

Albania Travel Safety

Albania is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Albania.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or public transport. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Albania is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and poor rural road conditions.
    • Avoid night driving in mountainous areas.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for long-term stays).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases:
    • Use insect repellent to guard against West Nile virus and tick-borne illnesses.
  • Altitude Sickness:
    • Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters. Ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like American Hospital and Hygeia Hospital in Tirana offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 127 | Fire: 128 | Police: 129.
  • Tourist Police (Tirana): +355 4 222 2222.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/mountainous areas. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Theth to Valbona).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing Kosovo politics.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Tirana; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

  • CDC Albania Health Guidelines
  • Albanian Road Authority
  • E-Albania Services Portal

Flying to Albania