Albania e-Temporary Visa

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An Albania e-Temporary Visa (Type D Visa) is a long-stay entry permit. Unlike a short-stay tourist visa, its primary purpose is not for travel but to allow the holder to enter Albania and then apply for a temporary residence permit from the local immigration authorities. A residence permit is required for any foreigner wishing to live in Albania for a period longer than three months.

Think of the e-Temporary Visa as your ticket to start the residency process. The application is conveniently initiated online through the official e-Visa portal, making it accessible and straightforward.

 

Who Needs to Apply for an e-Temporary Visa?

 

Any non-Albanian citizen who is not from a visa-exempt country and who intends to stay in Albania for more than 90 days within a 180-day period must apply for a Type D visa. This applies to individuals planning to:

• Work for an Albanian company.

• Study at an Albanian educational institution.

• Join a family member who is an Albanian resident or citizen.

• Operate as a remote worker (Digital Nomad).

• Participate in long-term volunteer programs.

• Retire in Albania.

 

Types of Temporary Visas (Based on Purpose)

 

Your reason for moving to Albania will determine the specific category of Type D visa you need to apply for. Each category has its own set of required documents. Common purposes include:

• Visa for Professional Reasons: For individuals with a work contract from an Albanian employer.

• Student Visa: For students enrolled in a recognized Albanian school or university.

• Family Reunion Visa: For spouses, children, or dependents of someone already residing legally in Albania.

• Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers or freelancers who earn an income from outside Albania.

• Visa for Humanitarian or Volunteer Activities: For participants in recognized non-profit or humanitarian programs.

 

General Requirements for the e-Temporary Visa Application

 

While each visa category has unique document requirements, all applicants must provide a set of core documents through the online portal.

 

Core Application Documents:

 

• Valid Passport: A scanned copy of your passport, valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

• Online Application Form: The correctly filled-out application on the official e-Visa platform.

• Biometric Photograph: A recent, passport-compliant digital photograph.

• Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will be living in Albania (e.g., a rental contract).

• Travel Health Insurance: A policy covering you for your initial stay in Albania.

• Criminal Record Check: An official document from your country of residence, proving a clean record, typically authenticated with an Apostille stamp.

• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or other evidence showing you can support yourself financially.

 

Visa Fee, Validity, and Processing

 

• Application Fee: 129.90 USD

• Validity: The Type D visa is a single-entry visa that allows you to enter Albania and remain for the time needed to submit your residence permit application (usually within 30 days of arrival).

• Processing Time: The estimated processing time for an e-Temporary Visa application is typically 5-9 business days, depending on the visa category and individual case.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

 

Is the e-Temporary Visa the same as a residence permit?

No. The e-Temporary (Type D) Visa grants you entry into Albania for the purpose of applying for a residence permit. The residence permit is a separate document you receive from immigration authorities after you arrive, which allows you to live in Albania legally for one year or more.

 

 

Can I apply for a residence permit without a Type D visa?

No, if you are from a country that requires a visa, you must first obtain the Type D visa from outside Albania. You cannot switch from a tourist visa (or visa-free stay) to a residence permit from within the country.

 

 

Do I need to submit original documents online?

The application is fully online, so you only need to upload high-quality digital scans of your documents. However, you must bring the original documents with you to Albania, as they will be required for your residence permit application.

 

 

What happens after my e-Temporary Visa is approved?

You will receive the visa electronically. You must print it and present it at the border upon arrival in Albania. Once you enter, you should proceed with your residence permit application at the local immigration office as soon as possible.

 

Ready to begin your life in Albania? The journey starts with one simple step. Let us help you navigate the visa process smoothly so you can focus on planning your new life in this dynamic and welcoming country.

To get started, visit our official Albania e-visa application page. Our user-friendly platform simplifies the entire process, providing clear instructions to ensure your application is complete and correct.