REPUBLIC OF
ALBANIA
Apply For The E-Visa
Albania E-tourist Visa For South Africa Citizens
Albania E-Tourist Visa for South Africa Citizens | Apply Online
Quick Summary: An Albanian E-Tourist Visa is a mandatory travel document for all citizens of South Africa who do not hold a valid multi-entry US, UK, or Schengen visa. This guide provides a full breakdown of the online application for those who require it.
This guide is designed to assist citizens of South Africa through the process of applying for an e-tourist visa to Albania. The entire procedure is handled online, making it convenient to secure your visa from home before you travel.
Eligibility for Albania E-Tourist Visa
All citizens holding a passport from South Africa are generally required to obtain a visa to enter Albania for tourism. The online e-visa portal is the official platform for these applications. However, important exemptions may apply for holders of valid multi-entry US, UK, or Schengen visas.
Required Documents for Albania Tourist Visa
Valid Passport: A clear scan of the biographic data page. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from your planned date of departure from Albania.
Passport Photo: A recent, digital passport-style photograph with a white background.
Flight Booking: Your confirmed round-trip flight itinerary.
Hotel/Accommodation Booking: Documentation of your accommodation for the entire duration of your stay in Albania.
Travel Health Insurance: A valid travel insurance policy that covers you for the entire period of your stay.
Financial Proof: A recent bank statement or similar document to prove you have sufficient funds for your trip.
Sponsor Letter (if applicable): If another person or entity is funding your trip, a formal letter of sponsorship might be needed, detailing their support.
Visa Fee and Processing Time
Fee: The processing fee for a standard single-entry e-tourist visa is €89.90 (approx. $100 USD).
Multiple-Entry Option: For an additional fee of +$20 USD, you can obtain a multiple-entry visa. This is an excellent option if you plan to visit neighboring countries and re-enter Albania during your trip.
Processing Time: While the general processing time is 5-9 business days, applications can sometimes take longer. We strongly advise applying at least three weeks before your intended travel date to accommodate any potential delays.
Validity and Duration of Stay: Typically, the e-tourist visa permits a stay of up to 30 days. However, the final decision on the duration rests with the Albanian authorities, and it may vary (e.g., 15, 60, or 90 days).
How to Apply for Albania E-Tourist Visa
Complete the Online Form: Begin by accurately entering your personal, passport, and travel information into the application form.
Upload Documents: Upload high-quality, clear digital copies of all the required documents as specified above.
Submit and Pay: Carefully review all your information for accuracy, then submit the application and complete the payment using our secure online portal.
Receive Your E-Visa: After approval, your official e-visa will be sent to your email address. You must print a copy of this e-visa to present to airline and border officials upon your arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South African citizens need an Albanian visa if they have a valid UK or Schengen visa?
If you are a South African citizen holding a valid, multiple-entry visa for a Schengen country, the USA, or the UK, and you have previously used that visa at least once to enter that territory, you are generally exempt from the Albanian visa requirement for a short stay (up to 90 days). However, border policies can change. It is crucial to verify the latest official regulations before traveling without an Albanian e-visa.
What are the flight routes from South Africa to Albania?
There are no direct flights from major South African cities like Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT) to Tirana, Albania (TIA). Travel will require at least one connection. The most common routes are through major hubs in the Middle East (like Dubai or Doha) or Europe (like Istanbul or Frankfurt).
Can I use the South African Rand (ZAR) in Albania?
No, the South African Rand (ZAR) is not an accepted or convertible currency in Albania. You must exchange your currency for a major international currency, such as Euros (EUR) or US Dollars (USD), before your trip. You can then easily exchange these for the local currency, the Albanian Lek (ALL), upon arrival.
Ready to begin your trip to Albania? Start your Albania e-visa application now and get your visa online in a few easy steps!
