Albania entry requirements: visa and what you need
Albania isn't in the EU, but has a very open entry policy. Which documents to carry, when you need a passport and what happens if you stay over 90 days.
Entry rules depend on your nationality and can change, so this guide explains the general policy and points you to the official sources. Always confirm it there before you travel.
Visa
Albania isn't part of the European Union or the Schengen area, but it keeps a very open entry policy. According to Albania's own Ministry of Foreign Affairs, citizens of the European Union, the Schengen area, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea, among other nationalities, more than 80 countries in total, can enter visa-free for tourist stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you hold a valid multiple-entry Schengen, US or UK visa, you can also enter with no extra formalities.
Check your case on the official tool. If your nationality needs a visa, it can be applied for online at e-visa.al, and it's worth starting early because it can take several weeks.
Documents
If you're a citizen of the EU or the Schengen area, you can enter with just a valid ID card, no passport needed. Other visa-exempt nationalities need a valid passport, normally with at least 3 months of remaining validity.
If you'll rent a car, carry your passport as well even if you don't need it to enter, because some companies ask for it as an additional document.
Forms
As of today, Albania doesn't require any online form or prior registration for short tourist stays. Passport or ID control on arrival at Tirana airport is enough. If your stay will go beyond 90 days, registering with the local police within the first few days is mandatory, which doesn't apply to a one-week trip.
Vaccines
There are no mandatory vaccines to enter Albania.
Requirements can change. Check the official website of Albania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs before you fly.
Our recommendation
Look up your nationality on the official tool, check your document and, if you rent a car, carry your passport. For the car, read the car insurance mistake in Albania first. You'll find the plan in our 7-day Albania itinerary, and when to go in best time to visit Albania.
Our favorite activities in Albania
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