Republic of Albania e-Employment Visa (Type D): 2026 Official Guide
Build your career and explore professional growth in one of the fastest-growing economies in the Balkans. The official e-Employment Visa for the Republic of Albania is designed for foreign nationals who have secured a job offer and intend to work and reside in the country for more than 90 days. This long-stay visa (Type D) is the essential first step toward obtaining your Albanian residence and work permit.
Our 100% online platform streamlines the application process, allowing you to secure your work authorization from anywhere in the world.
What is the Albania e-Employment Visa?
The Albania e-Employment Visa (Type D) is a long-term visa issued to individuals who intend to engage in paid employment within the Republic of Albania. Unlike the short-stay Type C visas, this category is mandatory for anyone planning to stay beyond 90 days for professional purposes. It serves as the legal entry permit that allows you to apply for a "Unique Permit" (combined work and residence permit) once you arrive in Albania.
This visa is specifically issued for:
-
Full-time Employment: For workers with a signed contract from an Albanian employer.
-
Professional Services: For specialized experts, technicians, and consultants.
-
Seasonal Work: For temporary labor in sectors like tourism or agriculture.
-
Intra-Corporate Transfers: For employees being moved to an Albanian branch or subsidiary.
Important Notice: You cannot legally begin working in Albania until your employer has initiated the work permit process and you have received your approved Type D visa.
Who Can Apply for the Albania e-Employment Visa?
Foreign nationals who have a confirmed and signed employment contract with a registered Albanian company must apply for this visa. The employer must be a legal entity in Albania and must provide documentation proving that the position could not be filled by a local citizen.
Albania e-Employment Visa Requirements for 2026
To ensure a successful application, both the applicant and the employer must provide detailed documentation. All files must be uploaded in clear, high-resolution digital scans:
-
Valid Passport: A copy with at least 6 months of validity remaining beyond the intended stay.
-
Signed Employment Contract: An official contract specifying salary, role, and duration, signed by both parties.
-
Criminal Record Certificate: A clean background check from your home country, issued within the last 3 months (may require notarization/apostille).
-
Biometric Photograph: A recent digital color photo (4.7 x 3.6 cm) on a white background.
-
Proof of Professional Qualifications: Copies of diplomas, certificates, or a detailed CV.
-
Medical Certificate: Proof of being free from infectious diseases.
-
Proof of Accommodation in Albania: A lease agreement or a declaration from the employer.
-
Financial Proof: Personal bank statements or a guarantee of salary from the employer.
Fee, Processing, and Validity Details
For 2026, the e-Employment Visa (Type D) follows these standard timelines and costs:
-
Official Application Fee: €120 (This long-stay visa fee is based on national reciprocity and 2026 government rates).
-
Standard Processing Time: 15 to 30 Working Days. Due to the background checks required, Type D visas take longer than tourist visas.
-
Visa Validity: The Type D visa is typically valid for 1 year, but you must apply for your Residence Permit within the first 30 days of arrival in Albania.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply for a work visa without a job offer? No. A signed employment contract from a registered Albanian employer is a mandatory requirement for the Type D e-Employment Visa.
Do I need to visit an embassy? No. The initial application for the e-Employment Visa is entirely digital through this portal. Once approved, the electronic visa will be sent to your email.
What happens after I arrive in Albania with this visa? Within 30 days of your arrival, you must visit the Regional Directorate of Border and Migration to apply for your residence card, using your Type D visa as proof of legal entry.
Can my family join me on this visa? Once your employment is legalized, you may apply for a Family Reunion Visa (Type D) for your spouse and minor children.
Empower your career in the heart of the Mediterranean. Secure your future in Albania by starting your professional journey today.
