Do U.S. citizens need a visa for Albania in 2025?

Planning a Balkan getaway? Good news: U.S. passport holders can still enter Albania visa-free in 2025. Below is a concise overview of Albania’s visa policy, entry requirements, and the questions Americans ask most often.

Albania visa policy at a glance

Current regulation allows U.S. citizens to stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa, according to the Albanian Directorate of Border and Migration Police and the U.S. Department of State (updated March 2025). The waiver applies to tourism, family visits, and short-term business. Longer stays require a residence permit.

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How long can U.S. citizens stay in Albania visa-free?

You may remain in Albania for 90 calendar days during any rolling 180-day window. Exiting and re-entering does not reset the clock—you must count all days spent in Albania over the last six months.

Is the 90-day allowance per visit or per 180-day period?

It is per 180-day period, not per trip. If you spent 60 days in Tirana earlier this year, you have only 30 more visa-free days until that first day falls outside the 180-day window.

Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days?

Yes. Before day 90 you can apply at a regional migration office for a residence permit or “Privilege Stay” extension. Processing typically takes two weeks and you must show proof of income or property rental and health insurance.

What documents do I need at the border?

Immigration officers require a U.S. passport valid at least three months beyond departure, proof of onward travel, and evidence of funds (e.g. credit card or bank statement). A printed or digital accommodation booking is recommended.

Does vaccination status affect entry in 2025?

No COVID-19 documentation is required at this time. Albania may reinstate health forms if global guidance changes; check the Ministry of Health site 48 hours before travel.

Are there any border fees or tourist taxes?

No entry fee is charged on arrival. A small tourist tax—about one U.S. dollar per night—is often included in hotel bills.

Can I work or study in Albania while visa-free?

Short-term remote work for a foreign employer is tolerated, but any local employment or university study requires a work or study permit in addition to residence authorization.

Key Takeaways

• Visa-free stay: 90 days in a 180-day period for U.S. citizens.
• Residence permit required for stays over 90 days.
• Passport must be valid three or more months beyond departure.
• No COVID-19 entry rules as of May 2025.
• No border fee; tourist tax is usually included in hotel bills.