Foreign investors looking to enter the Albanian market often ask how to register a business in Albania. The process is designed to be accessible, with a streamlined registration system through the National Business Center (QKB). However, following each legal step carefully is essential to avoid delays or compliance issues.
The process applies equally to both Albanian citizens and foreign nationals, with no restrictions on foreign ownership of business entities.
Registration Steps
The official steps for registering a business in Albania are:
– Reserve a company name and confirm its availability with the National Business Center (QKB)
– Prepare and notarize the articles of association and founding documents
– File the company registration application with the QKB, including all required documents and shareholder identification
– Register for a Tax Identification Number (NIPT) and fiscal obligations
– Register the company’s address, administrators, and share capital
– Open a corporate bank account to deposit the required capital
– Publish the company registration in the Official Gazette
Each step must follow specific documentation and legal requirements under Albanian law. Documents issued outside Albania must be legalized with an apostille and officially translated into Albanian.
Additional Considerations
Certain business activities may require additional licensing or sector approvals after registration, depending on the industry. Investors planning to operate in regulated sectors should verify licensing needs early in the process.
While the procedure is relatively quick, often completed in a few working days when documentation is correct, errors in filings, missing translations, or incomplete documents can cause delays.
Foreign investors are not required to be physically present in Albania to register a company if they appoint a local representative with a valid power of attorney.
Why Professional Support Matters
Even though registering a business in Albania is straightforward on paper, navigating legal translations, notarizations, apostilles, and regulatory filings can be challenging for foreign investors. Professional guidance ensures compliance, avoids procedural mistakes, and speeds up registration.
This step-by-step guide to registering a business in Albania highlights the key legal and administrative steps required for setting up a company. Foreign investors benefit from Albania’s open investment laws but must meet formal requirements.