Albania, a nation on the rise in the Balkans, is drawing in visitors from all corners of the world. Albania boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a prime geographic position, presenting a wealth of opportunities for travel, business ventures, and cultural interactions.

Before you embark on your journey, it's crucial to obtain the correct visa. The Type C visa is designed for short-term stays, allowing you to explore the country for leisure, business, or family visits.

Using the information below, we will review everything you need about Albania's short-stay visa Type C. 

What is an Albanian short-stay visa Type C? 

An Albania Short-Stay Visa Type C allows foreign nationals to enter Albania for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days. This visa suits various short-term purposes, including tourism, business, family visits, and cultural exchanges.

Please note that while this visa allows you to enter Albania, it does not automatically grant you permission to work or reside in the country.

This visa does not permit long-term stays or activities such as full-time employment or extensive study programs. 

Types of Albanian Short-Stay Visas

Here are the types of Albania Short-Stay Visa Type C, each tailored to specific purposes of visit:

Visa for Tourism (C)

This visa is intended for individuals visiting Albania for leisure and sightseeing. Its goal is to make it easier for visitors to discover Albania’s breathtaking natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural treasures. This visa is ideal for people looking for short-term vacation in Albania, from relaxing on the beaches of the Albanian Riviera to seeing Butrint and Berat (UNESCO World Heritage sites). 

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Independent travellers discovering Albania’s main attractions.
• Tourists who are interested in local culture, food, and festivals.

Hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor sports are popular among adventure seekers.

Visa for Tourism, Organized in Tourist Groups—Invited by an Albanian Tourism Agency (C)

This visa-type category covers travellers visiting Albania as part of a planned group trip organised by a licensed Albanian travel agency. Its primary goals are to promote group travel and facilitate easy access for travellers who favour itineraries, guided tours, and pre-arranged lodging.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Tourists participating in package trips run by travel agencies in Albania.
• Travellers visiting Albania as a group with friends, family, or coworkers.
• Those looking for hassle-free travel with reservations that include lodging, transportation, and guides.

Visa for Scientific, Cultural, Sports, and Humanitarian Reasons (C)

This visa makes it easier for people to enter Albania for humanitarian work or to attend sporting, cultural, or academic events. It aims to foster international cooperation, cross-cultural interaction, and community support via involvement in numerous events.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for: 

• Scholars and researchers participating in conferences, seminars, or collaborative projects. 
• Performers, musicians, or artists exhibiting their work at cultural festivals in Albania.
• Athletes participating in training regimens or sporting events.
• Volunteers or assistance workers engaged in charitable endeavours or humanitarian missions.

Visa for Official Visit (C)

People who must visit Albania for official business purposes, such as diplomats, public workers, and staff of international organisations, are eligible to apply for this visa. Attending international gatherings, prominent summits, or other official occasions are examples of what's included in this category.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Government officials or diplomats travelling to Albania for official business.
• Participants in international conferences, summits, or negotiations.
• To improve bilateral relations, members of official delegations are travelling to Albania.

Visa for Medical Reasons (C)

This visa facilitates travel to Albania for consultations or medical treatment. Its goal is to guarantee that patients in Albanian clinics or hospitals can obtain the necessary medical care for a restricted time.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Patients having surgery, specialised treatments, or other medical operations.
• People looking for diagnostic consultations or second opinions from medical professionals.
• Patients are accompanied by carers who provide support during their treatment.

Professional, Commercial, and Business Purposes Visa (C)

People travelling to Albania for work-related or business-related purposes can enter more easily with this visa. Its objective is to facilitate short-term commercial transactions, professional networking possibilities, or business endeavours.

Ideal for: This visa type is suitable for:

• Businesspeople or entrepreneurs going to meetings, trade shows, or exhibitions.
• Professionals participating in training sessions, consultations, or short-term initiatives.
• Investors trying to investigate potential business opportunities in Albania.

Visa Type C and its subcategories serve various purposes, including medical and professional requirements, travel, and cultural exchanges. Every kind of visa guarantees that people can quickly enter Albania for their short-term needs, encouraging travel, business, and cross-border cooperation.

What You Need: Documents for Albania Short-Stay Visa

To successfully apply for an Albania Short-Stay Visa Type C, you'll need to gather the following documents:

Core Documents

• Valid Travel Document: A travel document valid for at least three months after the visa’s necessary expiration date.

• Completed Visa Application Form: A completed visa application form submitted online.

• Recent Passport-Sized Photos: Provide colour passport-sized photos with a white background and dimensions 47 mm x 36 mm. 

• 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 required visa expires. 

• Proof of Sufficient Funds: This can include bank statements, credit card statements, or traveler's checks. It's essential to demonstrate that you have enough financial means to cover your stay in Albania.

Extra Documents (Depending on the Reason for Your Visit)

Here's a breakdown of the additional documents required for each type of Albania short-stay visa:

Visa for Tourism (C)

• Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking or invitation letter
• Proof of sufficient funds: Bank statements, credit card statements, or traveler's checks.

• Round-trip flight reservation.

Visa for Tourism, Organized in Tourist Groups (C)

• Notarized copy of the tour operator's license.

• List of group members with itinerary.

Visa for Scientific, Cultural, Sports and Humanitarian Reasons (C)

• Invitation from a local scientific, cultural, sports, or humanitarian entity.

• Proof of relevant activities in the applicant's home country.

Visa for Official Visit (C)

• Invitation from the host institution

• Verbal note from the applicant's employer

Visa for Medical Reasons (C)

• Invitation from the host hospital

• Medical diagnosis

• Proof of sufficient funds for treatment and stay

• Travel insurance for the patient and any accompanying person

• Confirmation from the host institution

Visa for Professional, Commercial and Business Purposes (C)

• Proof of professional or commercial activity

• International transport documents (if applicable)

• Invitation letter from the host in Albania

• Proof of accommodation in Albania

Specific Requirements for Minors

Before travelling to Albania, minors must obtain written authorisation from their parents or legal guardians. The contact information of the consenting adult, as well as the purpose and duration of the travel, should be included in this consent.

Albania Short-Stay Visa Application Process

Obtaining an Albania short-stay visa is a relatively straightforward process. However, understanding the specific requirements and following the correct procedures is essential. Let's guide you through the steps of applying for an Albania Short-Stay Visa Type C: 

• Visit the E-Visa Portal: Go to the official Albania e-Visa portal. 

• Fill out the application form:
  • Provide personal details (name, date of birth, nationality, passport information)
  • Enter travel details (arrival and departure dates, port of entry)
  • Specify accommodation details
  • Provide Proof of funds

• Upload Required Documents:
  • Upload clear scans of your passport, passport-size photo, and proof of accommodation or invitation letter.
  • Ensure file formats are compatible (JPEG or PDF) and file sizes are within limits.

• Review and Submit:
  • Carefully review all information for accuracy.
  • Submit your application.

• Pay the Visa Fee:
  • Use a credit or debit card to pay the required fee.

• Track Your Application:
  • Check your email for the latest updates, or use your reference number to track your application status online.

• Receive Your E-Visa:
  • You will get your E-visa by email once your visa application has been approved.
  • Print a copy of your e-Visa for your travel.

Validity of Albania Short Stay Visa Type C 

The Albania Short-Stay Visa Type C is ideal for short-term visits to Albania, including tourism, family visits, and business trips. This visa allows you to stay in the country for a specific duration.

• Duration of Stay:
  • A Type C visa allows visitors to stay in Albania for up to 90 days within a six-month period.
  • The 180-day period is calculated retrospectively, starting from the day you enter Albania.

• Single or Multiple Entry:
  • This visa allows for either a single entry into Albania or multiple entries within the specified validity period.
  • In multiple entries it allows the holder to enter and exit Albania multiple times within the total duration of 90 days.

• Validity Period
  • While the visa permits a stay of 90 days, the total validity of the visa can extend beyond the actual stay period, depending on the consulate's decision. For example, a visa could be valid for 6 months, during which the 90-day stay can be utilized.

• Conditions and Restrictions:
  • The visa is intended for short-term purposes and does not permit long-term residence or employment in Albania.
  • Overstaying the 90-day limit can result in penalties, fines, or future visa denials.

Can I Extend My Albania Short-Stay Visa?

Generally, Type C visas are not eligible for extensions. You might have to apply for a different kind of visa or permit if you want to stay longer. 

Making the proper travel arrangements and ensuring you have the necessary visa are crucial to avoiding legal issues. It is best to plan well in advance of any need to extend your stay so you are informed of your options and the specific actions that need to be taken.

How can I check the status of my Albania Short Stay Visa Type C? 

To track your Albania e-Visa application, follow these steps:

• Visit the Status Check Page: Go to the Albania e-Visa status check page to start the process. 

• Provide details: Enter your travel document number and the unique reference number you received after submitting your application.

• Verify with CAPTCHA: Type the CAPTCHA code on the screen to confirm your request. If the code is unclear, refresh the page to get a new one.

• Click check status: Click the ‘Check Status’ button to proceed.

• Review Your Application Status: The system will display the current status of your visa application. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: Please be advised that this information was last updated in December 2024. For the most precise and up-to-date travel guidance, it is imperative to verify travel details with the appropriate authorities, such as embassies, airlines, and government authorities.