Foreign investors often ask if they can use a nominee shareholder when opening a company in Albania. This structure is commonly used in offshore jurisdictions, but its use in Albania follows a very different legal approach.
While nominee arrangements are not explicitly regulated under Albanian law, they are used in practice through private agreements. However, using a nominee comes with serious limitations and legal risks.
What Is a Nominee Shareholder?
A nominee shareholder is a person who holds shares on behalf of the real (beneficial) owner. In this arrangement, the nominee appears in public records, while the actual investor remains behind the scenes, usually through a private agreement.
This structure is often used for privacy, tax planning, or asset protection. However, in Albania, the legal system does not formally recognize nominee relationships as enforceable unless carefully documented.
Are Nominee Shareholders Legal in Albania?
There is no official nominee shareholder framework under Albanian commercial law. The company registration system—managed by the National Business Center (QKB)—records only legal shareholders, meaning the individuals or entities officially listed as owners.
If you appoint a nominee, they will be legally recognized as the shareholder in Albania. Any attempt to claim back ownership later must rely on private contracts, which may or may not be enforced by Albanian courts depending on how they are written.
Risks and Limitations
Using a nominee structure in Albania carries certain risks:
1. No legal protection unless properly documented
Without a notarized agreement clearly outlining the beneficial ownership, your control over the company may be disputed.
2. Tax and compliance exposure
Authorities will treat the nominee as the actual owner for tax, liability, and reporting purposes.
3. Limited use for banking and legal matters
Most banks, notaries, and licensing authorities will only work with the registered shareholder—not the beneficial owner.
In short, while nominee arrangements are possible, they offer no legal shortcut. The nominee must be fully trusted, and all documents must be carefully prepared and notarized to avoid future conflicts.
When Is a Nominee Used in Albania?
Nominee structures are occasionally used by:
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Foreigners who cannot open a company due to visa or residency restrictions
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Investors who want to test the market before formally entering
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Family members or trusted associates holding shares temporarily
In these cases, it is essential to work with a qualified legal advisor who can draft the nominee agreement, clarify beneficial ownership, and provide mechanisms to transfer shares legally when needed.
You can use a nominee shareholder in Albania, but the law does not protect you unless the arrangement is fully documented and legally enforceable. Any nominee must be trustworthy and supported by a strong agreement drafted under Albanian law.