Hiring an accountant is not legally required to register a business in Albania—but in most cases, it becomes essential immediately after formation. Once your company is active, it must comply with ongoing tax, reporting, and payroll obligations, all of which require licensed accounting support.
For foreign founders, working with an accountant is strongly recommended from the beginning to avoid delays, penalties, or non-compliance.
Business Registration vs. Operational Requirements
You can register a company at the National Business Center (QKB) without an accountant. The registration process involves submitting founding documents, articles of association, and shareholder information.
However, as soon as your business receives a NIPT (tax ID) and opens a bank account, it enters the fiscal system—and from that point on, accounting becomes mandatory.
When Accounting Becomes Legally Required
Albanian law requires all active companies to:
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Maintain official accounting books
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File monthly VAT and tax declarations (if applicable)
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Submit annual financial statements
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Process payroll and social contributions for employees
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Handle invoicing, reporting, and bank reconciliations
These actions can only be performed by a licensed accountant or accounting firm registered in Albania. The accountant is also responsible for signing off on tax returns and financial reports.
Can You Outsource Accounting?
Yes. Most startups and foreign-owned businesses in Albania outsource their accounting to a local professional or agency. This avoids the cost of hiring in-house staff and ensures all filings are handled correctly.
Outsourcing is especially helpful for:
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Foreign founders unfamiliar with Albanian tax law
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Small companies with no internal finance department
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Businesses operating in regulated sectors requiring strict reporting
Monthly accounting fees vary depending on the size and activity of the business but are relatively affordable compared to other European countries.
Why Early Involvement Matters
Delays in hiring an accountant after formation can lead to missed tax deadlines, non-compliant invoices, or errors in payroll registration. Even if you have no income, inactive companies must still submit zero declarations to the tax office.
Having an accountant in place from day one ensures your business is properly registered with the tax office, avoids penalties, and starts on the right foot operationally.