Complete Guide to Albania: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts
Your ultimate 2025 Complete Guide to Albania – the hidden gem of the Balkans. Enjoy 90-day visa-free entry for 100+ nationalities, explore Tirana's colorful streets, Berat's Ottoman houses, and the pristine Albanian Riviera beaches. Discover residency through €50K business or €250K real estate investment, grasp the tourism-driven economy under President Bajram Begaj, and savor byrek pastries. This detailed guide covers everything: top destinations, practical tips, and aviation insights for seamless Albania travel and business.
Introduction to Albania
Albania, with 2.8 million proud Illyrian descendants, is a Balkan treasure of Ottoman mosques, Adriatic beaches, and rugged mountains—famous for bunkers, raki toasts, and being Europe's last communist holdout until 1991. In 2025, it attracts 7M tourists to its Riviera and UNESCO sites, fueled by EU candidacy. This guide covers visa ease, investment residency, and must-sees like Theth for seamless Albania travel.
Albania Independence Date
November 28, 1912 – declaration from Ottoman Empire at Vlorë. Celebrated with flag-raising, parades, and fireworks nationwide.
How to Apply for Albania Visa – 90 Days Visa-Free
90 days visa-free in 180 for 100+ countries (EU, USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, etc.). Type D for longer stays. E-visa available online for non-exempt; passport valid 3+ months post-departure.
Albania Residency by Investment 2025 – Real Estate & Business
€50K business investment (creating jobs) or €250K real estate → 5-year renewable residency (no min stay). Family included; path to permanent after 5 years, citizenship after 10. One of Europe's most affordable EU-candidate options.
Top Places to Visit in Albania
- Tirana – Skanderbeg Square, Blloku district
- Berat – UNESCO Ottoman "City of a Thousand Windows"
- Gjirokaster – Stone houses, castle (UNESCO)
- Albanian Riviera – Ksamil beaches, Himara coast
- Theth National Park – Accursed Mountains hikes
- Komani Lake – Fjord-like ferry ride
- Blue Eye Spring – Turquoise natural pool
- Butrint National Park – Ancient ruins (UNESCO)
Economic Activities & 2025 Outlook
Nominal GDP ≈ €25 billion, 3.4% growth forecast. Key sectors: tourism (13% GDP), construction, remittances (€1.5B), agriculture (olives, figs), energy (hydro 95% power).
How to Buy a SIM Card in Albania
Vodafone, One, ALBtelecom at Tirana Airport/stores. €5–10 starter with 10–20GB data. Passport required for registration.
Who is the President of Albania?
Bajram Begaj – former military chief, since July 2022; ceremonial role focused on EU integration.
Political Status
Parliamentary republic, EU candidate since 2014. Socialist Party majority post-2025 elections; ongoing reforms for accession amid regional stability efforts.
Aviation Services in Albania
Tirana International (TIA) hub. Air Albania for domestic; medevac via Medical Air Service (24/7); scenic helicopter flights over Riviera and Theth by local charters.
Culture, Byrek & Festivals
Byrek pastries, polyphonic singing (UNESCO). Festivals: Independence Day (Nov 28), Gjirokaster Folk (May), Summer Festival (Aug).
Safety & Practical Tips
Low crime; safe for tourists. English in cities; Lek currency; buses affordable (Tirana–Saranda 8h).
Plan Your Albania Journey
From Riviera sun to mountain trails, Albania enchants. KiliFlying Air offers charters and scenic flights for your Balkan adventure.
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