Foreign investors and business owners frequently ask how to change company shareholders in Albania when planning to sell, transfer, or restructure ownership. Albania’s company law allows shareholder changes through a clear legal process that must be officially registered with the National Business Center (QKB).
A change of shareholders is only effective against third parties once it is recorded in the company’s official registration records.
Legal Process for Changing Shareholders
The process to change company shareholders in Albania involves a formal share transfer agreement, signed by the outgoing and incoming shareholders. Albanian law requires this agreement to be notarized in Albania or legalized if signed abroad.
The company must hold a shareholders’ meeting (or adopt a shareholders’ resolution) approving the transfer of shares and updating the company’s shareholder register. This resolution must also be notarized and submitted as part of the registration process.
Once the documentation is complete, the company files an application with the QKB to update its official shareholder records. The application must include the notarized share transfer agreement, shareholders’ resolution, updated articles of association (if applicable), and any required identification documents for the new shareholder.
When Is the Change Effective
The transfer of shares becomes legally effective after the QKB registers the change. Until registration is completed, the previous shareholder remains listed as the official shareholder in the company’s public records.
Timely filing is important to avoid legal or operational complications, especially in transactions involving asset sales, banking relationships, or licensing requirements tied to ownership.
Can Foreigners Acquire Shares
Albanian law allows foreign individuals and entities to acquire shares in Albanian companies with no nationality-based restrictions, except for specific regulated industries that may impose licensing requirements. The share transfer process is the same whether the incoming shareholder is an Albanian or a foreign national.
The process to change company shareholders in Albania requires notarized documentation, shareholder approval, and official registration with the National Business Center. Working with professionals ensures compliance with legal formalities and avoids administrative delays.