Albania, a historic and culturally rich country, presents a special chance for extended visits. Knowing the long-stay visa procedure is essential whether you're looking to reunite with family, pursue academic endeavours, or find employment. This tutorial will provide you with the knowledge you need to handle the difficulties involved in acquiring a long-stay visa for Albania. 

If you plan to stay in Albania for more than 90 days, you'll likely need a residence permit or a unique permit. Diplomatic visas and visa service D are exempt from this requirement. This guide will provide information on the types of permits, eligibility criteria, and the application process.

Before beginning, let's learn about residence/unique permits for an Albanian long-stay visa. 

Albania Long-Stay Visas: Residence and Unique Permits

Residence Permit

Foreign nationals wishing to stay in Albania for more than 90 days can apply for a residence permit online by visiting Albania’s immigration website. This permit is not required for a long-stay diplomatic visa or visa services D. This permit can be obtained for various reasons, including:

• Family Reunification
• Studies
• Humanitarian Reasons
• Other Reasons (e.g., retirement, property ownership)

Validity period of Residence Permit

A residence permit is valid for three-six months, one year, two years, 3 years, five years, and permanent. 

Residence Permit Renewal

Foreign nationals who have resided in Albania for more than 180 days in a calendar year can renew their residence permit. 

Unique Permit

Individuals seeking employment or investment opportunities in Albania can apply for a unique permit. This permit can be obtained for various reasons, including:

• Employment
• Self-Employment
• Highly Skilled Employment
• Intra-Company Transfer
• Investment
• Digital Nomad

Validity period

A unique permit is valid for one year, two years, three years, and 5 years. 

Unique Permit Renewal

Foreign nationals who wish to continue their stay in Albania under a unique permit can renew it. 

Note: A residence permit is typically required for long-term stays in Albania. However, D holders of diplomatic visas or visa services are exempt from this requirement.

Classification of Long-Stay Visas in Albania

Here's a breakdown of the most common visa types, each designed to facilitate specific goals for those seeking to live, work, or invest in this vibrant Balkan nation.

Visa for Study Purposes (D)

This visa will enable students to enrol in long-term courses at Albanian universities, colleges, or other accredited educational establishments. It will also make it easier for international students to apply for research scholarships, exchange programs, and other opportunities in higher education.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Enrolling in doctoral, postgraduate, or undergraduate programs full-time.
• Participating in internships or exchange programs related to academic pursuits.

Family Reunion Visa (D)

This visa is for people who want to move to Albania to live with their immediate family. It strengthens family ties by permitting spouses, children, or dependents to live with their loved ones.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Spouses or kids of lawful residents or citizens of Albania.
• Dependents joining relatives with current residency permits.

Religious or humanitarian activity visa (D)

This visa supports individuals who are participating in humanitarian or religious missions. The main goal is to help volunteers, relief workers, or members of religious organisations carry out philanthropic or spiritual activities in Albania.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Members of faith-based organisations, missionaries, and religious leaders.
• Aid workers delivering humanitarian aid in Albania. 

Diplomatic Visa or Visa Service (D) 

This type of visa is intended for diplomats or other officials who will be stationed in Albania for a prolonged period. Its purpose is to assist diplomats working for different nations or international organisations.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Diplomats assigned to Albanian embassies or consulates.
• Employees of UN missions or international organisations.

Visa for Seasonal Employment Purposes (D)

This visa is intended for people in seasonal occupations, including hospitality, tourism, or agriculture. Its objective is to meet Albania's seasonal demand for temporary labour.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Employees working in Albania's agricultural or tourism industries during busy times.

Unpaid Trainee Visa (D)

This visa allows people to participate in unpaid training programs in Albania. Through internships or real-world experiences, it aims to assist in skill development or satisfy academic requirements.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Professionals or students seeking real-world experience without receiving payment.
• People who want to learn essential skills and information in their chosen sector

Au Pairs Visa (D)

This visa is designed for young people who work as au pairs to help host families with childcare and housework while learning about Albanian customs.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Young adults looking to work as au pairs and exchange cultures.
• Those who want to learn the language and experience Albanian family life.

Youth Exchange Visa (D)

This visa is intended to promote youth exchange programs between Albania and other nations, promoting cooperation and cross-cultural understanding.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for: 

• Students participating in student exchange programs or foreign youth activities.
• Young people who want to make friends abroad and immerse themselves in different cultures.

Research Visa (D)

Those working on academic or scientific projects in Albania are granted this visa. It encourages researchers to work with institutions in Albania.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Academics or scholars engaged in research initiatives.
• Scientists who collaborate with research institutes or universities in Albania.

Employee Visa (D)

This visa is intended for people who have long-term work agreements in Albania. It makes it easier to find employment in several Albanian economic sectors.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Experts working for Albanian businesses or foreign enterprises doing business in Albania.
• Competent workers looking for long-term positions in a range of Albanian economic areas.

In-House Transferee Visa (D)

This visa is for personnel transferred by their employer to work in Albania. It enables corporations to relocate personnel from other nations to their Albanian offices.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Workers who have moved to their employers' Albanian branches.
• Multinational corporation workers looking for short-term or long-term assignments in Albania.

Vocational Training Visa (D)

This visa is designed for people enrolled in Albanian vocational training programs. Its main goal is to support professional growth and skill acquisition in particular crafts or sectors.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Professionals or students acquiring technical skills through accredited programs.
• Those looking to receive specialised vocational training to increase their employability.

Athletes' Visa (D)

Professional athletes participating in tournaments, training sessions, or sporting events in Albania are the target audience for this visa.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Sportspeople hired by Albanian teams or training centres.
• Professional athletes competing in international tournaments in Albania.

Voluntary Service Visa (D)

This visa is intended for volunteers in Albania. Its goal is to use volunteerism to advance social and communal development.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Volunteers involved in philanthropic organisations, community projects, or non-governmental organisations.
• Those looking to volunteer their time and talents to the Albanian community.

Highly Qualified Workers' Visa (D)

Professionals with advanced degrees or specialised skills who support Albania's economic growth are the target of this visa.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Highly skilled medical experts, IT specialists, or engineers.
• Professionals who can substantially contribute to the Albanian economy and possess in-demand talents.

Self-Employed Persons' Visa (D)

This visa supports those intending to start or run their businesses in Albania. Its goal is to promote economic expansion and entrepreneurship.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Albanian entrepreneurs starting small enterprises or startups.
• International businesspeople looking to open and run companies in Albania.

Digital Mobile Workers Visa (D)

This visa makes it easier for digital nomads or remote workers to live in Albania while working for international businesses. Its goal is to attract global talent seeking flexible employment arrangements.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Remote workers or freelancers residing in Albania who operate online.
• Digital nomads looking for a place to work remotely in Albania.

Investor Visa (D)

This visa targets foreign investors who wish to contribute to Albania's economy. Its goal is to attract foreign investment and encourage domestic economic endeavours.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Business owners launching ventures or making investments in Albanian industries or real estate.
• People who want to spend heavily in Albania to live there permanently.

Contracting Services Visa (D)

Professionals are permitted to provide contract-based services in Albania with this visa. It is frequently employed for short-term or project-specific tasks.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Contractors Albanian companies engage for particular projects.
• Consultants or freelancers offering Albanian clients temporary services.

Vessel Crew Visa (D)

This visa is given to ship crew members stationed in Albanian waters for a long time.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Members of the crew of yachts, commercial ships, and cargo ships.
• Seamen that operate vessels that are presently in Albanian territorial waters.

Visa for Use of Owned Immovable Property (D)

Real estate owners in Albania who want to remain in the country for a long time can apply for the Visa for Use of Owned Immovable Property (D).

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Long-term visitors staying at the houses of foreign property owners.
• Owners of properties in Albania who want to stay there for long periods.

Pensioner (Retired) Visa (D)

This visa is intended for retirees who plan to relocate to Albania. Its goal is to provide seniors a quiet, reasonably priced place to live.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for 

• Retired people looking for a peaceful, long-term home in Albania.
• Seniors looking to live comfortably in a budget-friendly setting during their retirement.

Every Visa Type D category has a distinct long-term function, guaranteeing that people from various backgrounds can take advantage of opportunities in Albania for employment, education, or leisure.

Essential Documents for Albania Long-Stay Visa Type D

The documents necessary for Albania long-stay visa type D are as follows: 

Core Documents

When applying for a visa to Albania, several key documents are required regardless of the specific visa type. These documents ensure that applicants meet the general eligibility criteria and are prepared for their intended stay in the country. Below is an expanded explanation of the common documentation requirements:

Visa Application Form

• The application form must be completed online through the official Albanian visa portal.
• Ensure that all the information is accurate and matches your supporting documents. Forms that are incomplete or inaccurate could be rejected or cause delays.

Photograph

• A recent passport-sized photograph with dimensions of 47mm x 36mm is required.
• The photograph should have a clear, neutral background and meet biometric standards, such as showing the full face with no headwear unless for religious purposes.

Valid Travel Document (Passport):

• A valid passport is mandatory, with a photocopy of the bio-data page submitted along with the application.
• The passport must have a validity period that extends at least three months beyond the intended visa duration.
• Ensure the passport has sufficient blank pages for visa stamps and complies with international travel regulations.

Residence Permit:

• A residence permit from the applicant's home country that is valid for more than 12 months and for at least three more months after the requisite visa expires, if applicable.

Bank Statement:

• A detailed bank statement showing financial activity for the past 12 months is required.
• The statement should clearly attest to your financial capacity to support yourself during your time in Albania.
• It is advisable to include proof of regular income, such as salary deposits, to strengthen your application.

Additional documents relevant to visa type you are seeking are added to these standard requirements, which serve as the cornerstone of your application. It is crucial to thoroughly go over the prerequisites for the visa category you have selected and make sure that all of the documents you have given are current, understandable, and, if required, appropriately attested.

Extra Documents (Depending on the Reason for Your Visit)

Study Visa (D)

• Invitation from the host institution
• Proof of enrollment or admission
• Proof of financial resources for living and education expenses
• Language proficiency certificate or proof

Family Reunion Visa (D)

• Invitation from a family member in Albania
• Proof of family relationship (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate)
• Proof of accommodation and financial support in Albania

Humanitarian or Religious Activities Visa (D)

• Invitation from the host organization
• Proof of humanitarian or religious activity
• Letter of intent or work plan

Diplomatic or Service Visa (D)

• Verbal Note from the relevant institution

Seasonal Employment Visa (D)

• Valid employment contract for seasonal work
• Proof of accommodation

Unpaid Trainee Visa (D)

• Invitation from the host institution
• Proof of enrollment in a vocational training program
• Language proficiency certificate

Au Pair Visa (D)

• Invitation from the host family
• Agreement with the host family
• Proof of financial guarantee
• Language proficiency certificate

Youth Exchange Visa (D)

• Invitation from the host organization
• Certification from the youth exchange program

Research Visa (D)

• Invitation from the research institution
• Research agreement or contract

Employment Visa (D)

• Employment contract with an Albanian employer

In-House Transferee Visa (D)

• In-house transfer statement

Vocational Training Visa (D)

• Certification of professional ability
• Invitation from the host institution

Athlete Visa (D)

• Employment contract with a sports organization
• Registration of the sports organization

Volunteer Visa (D)

• Volunteer agreement with the host organization

Highly Qualified Employee Visa (D)

• Higher education diploma
• Employment contract

Self-Employed Visa (D)

• Certification of professional capacity
• Business registration documents

Digital Nomad Visa (D)

• An employment contract or service contract with a foreign company

Investor Visa (D)

• Proof of investment in Albania

Contracting Services Visa (D)

• Service contract with an Albanian entity
• Professional qualification certificate

Crew Member Visa (D)

• Employment contract with a shipping company

Property Owner Visa (D)

• Property ownership certificate
• Proof of financial resources

Pensioner Visa (D)

• Pension document
• Proof of sufficient income

Steps to Apply for an Albania Long-Stay Visa Type D

Step 1: Obtain a Residence or Unique Permit

As a prerequisite for a long-stay visa in Albania, you'll need to secure either a residence permit or a unique permit.

• Residence Permit
  • Eligibility: For those planning to stay in Albania for more than 90 days for reasons such as family reunification, studies, humanitarian needs, retirement, property ownership, etc.

• Unique Permit
  • Eligibility: For individuals seeking employment, self-employment, highly skilled work, intra-company transfer, investment, or digital nomad activities.

Note: These permits can be obtained by completing the form accessible on the Albanian immigration website.

Step 2: Apply for a Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

After obtaining the residence or unique permit, the next step is to apply for an Albanian long-stay visa. The steps are as follows: 

Visit the Albania E-Visa Portal

• Access the Portal: Visit the Albania E-Visa portal.
• Stable Connection: To ensure a smooth application process, make sure you have a reliable internet connection.

Start Your Application

• Click to Apply: Once on the portal, locate and click the ‘Apply E-Visa’ button.
• Online Form: This will direct you to the Albanie e-visa application form.
• Accurate Information: Provide precise details such as your full name (as per your passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, visa type, and contact information.
• Travel Details: Input your flight details, travel dates, and accommodation plans.

3. Upload Required Documents

• Clear Scans: Prepare clear scans of the necessary documents, including:
  • Travel document bio page.
  • Recent passport-sized photo.
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter).
  • Bank statements.

• Correct Format: Ensure documents are in the specified format (usually PDF or JPEG).
• Quality Matters: High-quality scans prevent processing delays.

4. Choose Your Processing Speed

• Standard Processing: Opt for the standard processing time if you're not in a rush.
• Expedited Processing: For urgent travel needs, choose the expedited option (may incur additional fees).

5. Secure Payment

• Online Payment: Pay securely online using a credit or debit card.
• Payment Confirmation: On successful payment, you'll receive a confirmation.

6. Track Your Application

• Reference Number: Keep track of your application reference number.
• Online Tracking: Use the reference number to monitor your application status on the portal.

7. Receive Your E-Visa

• Email Notification: Upon approval, you'll receive your E-Visa via email.
• Print a Copy: Print a physical copy of your E-Visa for presentation at the airport.

Step 3: Present Your E-Visa at the Airport

• Immigration Check: Upon arrival at the Albanian airport, proceed to the immigration counter.
• Document Verification: Present your passport and printed E-Visa to the immigration officer.
• Answer Queries: Be prepared to answer any questions the officer may have regarding your travel purpose and stay.

With your E-Visa in hand, you're ready to immerse yourself in Albania's stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality.

Validity of Albania Long Stay Visa Type D 

Your Albania Long-Stay Visa (Type D) is typically valid for more than 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa category is specifically designed for longer stays in Albania, often exceeding the standard 90-day visa limit.

Can I extend my Albania Long Stay Visa Type D validity? 

Yes, it is possible to extend your Albania Long-Stay Visa (Type D). However, the specific process and requirements can vary based on your individual circumstances and the reason for your extended stay.

Key considerations when extending your visa:

• Residence or Unique Permit Validity: Your visa extension is tied to the validity of your residence or unique permit. It is crucial to ensure that your permit remains valid throughout your intended stay in Albania. If your permit is nearing expiration, prioritize its renewal before proceeding with a visa extension.
• Timely Application: To prevent any issues, it is essential to begin the extension procedure soon before the expiration of your current visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in December 2024, We suggest verifying all details with the appropriate agencies.