Ready to work from the Albanian Riviera? Alba Legal breaks down the new Digital Nomad Visa law, requirements, application process, and our expert pricing to make your relocation seamless.
Have you ever imagined coding to the sound of the Ionian Sea, or joining a Zoom call with a view of the Accursed Mountains? Albania, one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, has officially rolled out the red carpet for remote workers worldwide with its new Digital Nomad Visa.
At Alba Legal, we’ve helped countless international clients navigate Albanian immigration law. This article cuts through the complexity, giving you a clear, legally-sound guide to securing your residency in this stunning Mediterranean haven.
What is the Albania Digital Nomad Visa?
Formally known as the “Unique Law for Digital Nomads” (Law No. 21/2023), this program allows non-Albanian citizens who work remotely for employers or clients based outside of Albania to live and work legally in the country for up to one year, with the option to renew.
It’s the key to enjoying Albania’s low cost of living, rich history, and breathtaking coastline without the worry of overstaying a tourist visa.
Key Benefits at a Glance
· Long-Term Legal Residency: Stay for one year, renewable.
· Tax-Free Personal Income: A major advantage! Your foreign-sourced income is not subject to Albanian income tax.
· Travel Freely in the Region: Use Albania as your base to explore the Balkans and the wider Schengen Area.
· Path to Permanent Residency: After holding the Digital Nomad visa for five years, you may become eligible to apply for permanent residency.
· Include Your Family: Your spouse and minor children can apply for residency under your application.
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the visa, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Proof of Remote Work:
· Be employed by a company registered outside of Albania, OR
· Be a shareholder or owner of a company based abroad, OR
· Work as a freelancer for clients primarily located outside of Albania.
2. Minimum Income Requirement:
· You must prove a stable monthly income. While the law does not specify a fixed amount, our legal assessment, based on government practice, recommends proving an income of at least €9,000 per year (approx. €750/month). This demonstrates you can support yourself without needing local employment.
3. Required Documentation:
· A valid passport (with at least one year of validity).
· Completed application forms.
· Proof of comprehensive health insurance valid in Albania.
· A clean criminal record certificate from your home country.
· Proof of income (e.g., employment contract, bank statements, client contracts).
The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Overview
Navigating the bureaucracy can be daunting. Here’s a simplified roadmap of the process we manage for our clients:
1. Document Preparation & Legalization: We help you gather, translate, and notarize all required documents to meet Albanian legal standards.
2. Application Submission: Your application is submitted to the Albanian Consulate in your home country or, in some cases, directly to the authorities in Albania.
3. Background Check: Albanian authorities will process your application and conduct a security check.
4. Visa Issuance: Once approved, you will receive a Type D Long-Stay Visa, allowing you to enter Albania.
5. Residency Permit Application (Upon Arrival): After you enter Albania, you must apply for a biometric residency permit at the local immigration office. This is a critical, often-missed step that we handle for you.
How Alba Legal Simplifies Your Journey (With Transparent Pricing)
At Alba Legal, we understand that your focus should be on your work and exploring your new home, not on legal paperwork. Our comprehensive service package is designed for a hassle-free experience.
Our Digital Nomad Visa Service Package: €1,200
What’s Included:
· Initial Consultation & Eligibility Assessment: We review your situation to ensure a successful application.
· Documentation Review & Preparation: We manage the translation, notarization, and certification of all required documents.
· Full Application Management: We act as your legal representative, liaising with Albanian consulates and immigration authorities on your behalf.
· Assistance with Residency Permit: We guide you through the final, in-country steps to secure your biometric residency card.
· Dedicated Legal Support: Your personal point of contact for any questions throughout the entire process.
Additional services, such as assistance with renting an apartment, setting up a local bank account, or family application support, are available upon request.
Why Choose Albania?
Beyond the visa, Albania offers an unparalleled quality of life:
· Affordability: Enjoy a high standard of living for a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.
· Nature & Culture: From pristine beaches to ancient ruins and vibrant cities like Tirana and Vlorë.
· Welcoming Community: Albanians are known for their hospitality, and a growing community of nomads makes it easy to connect.
Start Your Albanian Adventure Today
The combination of a clear legal framework, significant tax benefits, and an incredible lifestyle makes Albania a top-tier destination for digital nomads.
Don’t let complex paperwork delay your dream. Let Alba Legal handle the law while you plan your adventure.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to assess your eligibility and start your application.
Your Consultation
Alba Legal
Your Trusted Partner in Albanian Immigration Law.