Capital City: Tirana
Population: 2,402,113 ( 2023 )
Official language: Albanian
Commonly spoken languages: Greek, Romani, Serbian, Aromanian (minorities)
Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
Albania is a small country located on the Balkan Peninsula. It has a long history dating back to 1190 and an extremely diverse and beautiful nature, with about three-fourths of its territory consisting of majestic mountains and the remaining part of sunny coasts. The country has a Mediterranean climate with all four seasons – spring, summer, autumn, and winter. It has a growing economy and has upgraded its status from one of the poorest countries in Europe to an upper-middle-income country.
Albania may not currently rank high on many lists, but there is potential for change in the near future. So, considering its long-term prospects, moving to Albania from the UK might be a wise choice. Check out our guide to find out why this country deserves your attention and what you need to know to plan a successful move to Albania.
Table of Contents
Residence requirements in Albania for UK citizens
British nationals are permitted to visit and stay in Albania without needing a visa for no more than 90 days within a period of six months. However, to live in Albania for more than 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa or obtain a valid residency permit. You can apply for a temporary resident permit at the Border & Migration Department of the Albanian State Police. There are several main reasons to apply for an initial Albanian residency permit, such as:
- To work
- To join a family member
- To study
- For other motives justified by the documents
- For international protection
Albanian citizenship can be obtained if you are 18 years old and are a residency permit holder who has lived in Albania for five continuous years (more than 180 days per year). Proficiency in the Albanian language at an elementary level is also required for eligibility. Dual nationality is also accepted in Albania.
According to the most recent Nomad Passport Index, individuals holding an Albanian passport can access 120 destinations without needing a visa, either through a visa-on-arrival or an eTA (electronic Travel Authorisation).
Where do most people live in Albania
It is hardly surprising that among the best cities to live in Albania are also the country’s biggest cities. We start with the capital, Tirana, with a population of 502,734 people as of 2021. The city has great living standards and multiple benefits – e.g. many educational and employment opportunities and a lively social scene. Then, we have Vlore, Kameez, Durres, and Skoda, which are the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th largest cities, respectively. These are also some of the cities most preferred by foreign citizens, UK nationals included.
Working in Albania
For a long time, Albania has been under a communist regime and was one of the poorest European countries. In the last decades, however, Albania’s economy has been growing at a steady rate and the country now has an upper-middle-class economy. Albania is a candidate state to join the European Union and has been in negotiations since its application in April 2009.
Expats moving to Albania can find job opportunities as call centre operators, specialists in the apparel and footwear industry, mining and construction workers, waiters, bartenders, and drivers, as these are the most in-demand professions in recent years. The demand for highly qualified professionals in Albania is low. This is not surprising, keeping in mind that the most developed industries in the country include natural resources, manufacturing, and retail. The highest-paying jobs are sales professionals, engineers and technicians, construction and labour workers, education and university professionals, and IT specialists.
Transportation in Albania
The Albanian road infrastructure has significantly improved in the last few years. There are four main transportation modes available in the country – buses, trains, planes, and personal vehicles. There is only one international airport in Albania – this is the Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, also referred to as Rinas International Airport. There is no domestic air connection in the country.
The railway is administered by the national railway company Hekurudha Shqiptare (HSH) and is only about 500 kilometres long. Both air and railway transportation is vastly limited by the Albanian landscape.
In Albania, transportation within and between cities is primarily done using buses and shared minibuses called fourgons. These methods are generally convenient and budget-friendly, but delays and inconsistent schedules can be common. Cycling is also an option. It offers the chance to experience Albania’s beautiful scenery, although the cycling conditions in the country are not ideal.
Driving your own car in Albania
UK and EU driving licenses are valid in Albania. It is recommended, however, that you get an International Driving Permit. You can easily exchange your driving license at your local Regional Directorate of Road and Transport. To do that, you need the following documents:
- A notarized copy of the approved temporary or permanent Albanian residence permit, as well as the original
- Translated and notarized copy of your driving licence, as well as the original
- Payment slip proving the service fee payment
- A local medical certificate with your photo attached
If you want to take your car after moving to Albania from the UK, you will need the registration/ownership papers of the vehicle as well as a valid insurance policy. To legally drive a car in Albania, you must have your driving license, vehicle registration and insurance documents, and a personal ID or passport. Overall, owning a vehicle in Albania is affordable.
Education in Albania
Education in Albania is of relatively high quality. There are both public and private education options. Education is completely free of charge and compulsory from ages 9 to 16 (nine grades). This is the basic education level in the country. Then, children could proceed with their secondary education level at the available educational institutions in the country. As a next step, students should get their state matura exam and could enrol at some of the Albanian higher education institutions.
Being a student in Albania
International students who move to Albania to study require a student visa. The cost of study varies depending on the university and course of study. Students can either have the option to live in the university dormitories or rent an apartment. The cost of living in Albania as a student is generally low and affordable for UK nationals. Students can also work on a work permit while studying in the country.
Healthcare in Albania
Healthcare in Albania is affordable and of relatively good quality. There are both public and private hospitals and medical centres. The country has a universal healthcare system based on both mandatory and voluntary contributions, supplemented by funding from the state budget. However, when moving to Albania from the UK, remember that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not applicable in the country, and you must register at your local health centre. Read more about healthcare and other essential aspects for UK nationals living in Albania here.
Takeaways
Albania may be smaller in size compared to other countries; however, it doesn’t fall short when it comes to presenting opportunities. Its rich history and breathtaking nature make the country a very desired destination. Also, in the last decades, Albania has experienced steady economic growth. More education and employment opportunities have made the country a popular choice for expats.
If you are among the people who have chosen to move to Albania, don’t hesitate to let us know! With more than 10 years of experience in removal services, our company will take care of all details ensuring your smooth and stress-free international relocation.
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