Foreign investors and business owners often ask how to transfer company ownership in Albania when selling, restructuring, or passing a business to new shareholders. Albanian law allows company ownership transfers through a formal legal process that must be officially recorded to take legal effect.
Transferring ownership typically involves transferring shares in the company and updating the company’s records with the National Business Center (QKB).
Legal Process for Ownership Transfer
The process to transfer company ownership in Albania begins with a share transfer agreement between the current owner (seller) and the new owner (buyer). Albanian law requires this agreement to be notarized in Albania or legalized if signed abroad.
The company must approve the share transfer through a shareholders’ resolution or general assembly decision, depending on the company’s articles of association. This approval document also needs to be notarized.
Once these documents are prepared, the company must file an application with the QKB to update the official shareholder register. The filing must include the notarized share transfer agreement, shareholder approval resolution, updated articles of association if necessary, and identification documents for the new owner.
When Does the Transfer Become Effective
The transfer of ownership becomes legally effective only after the QKB updates the company’s official registration records. Until registration is completed, the previous owner remains the official shareholder of record.
Timely registration is essential, especially for transactions that affect banking, licensing, or operational control of the business.
Can Foreigners Buy 100 Percent Ownership
Yes—Albanian law allows foreign individuals and foreign companies to acquire 100 percent ownership of Albanian companies. There are no nationality-based restrictions on ownership, except in specific regulated sectors where additional approvals may be required.
The process to transfer company ownership in Albania requires notarized agreements, shareholder approval, and formal registration with the National Business Center. Professional guidance ensures compliance with legal requirements and avoids administrative delays.