How to get an Albanian residency permit through business ownership

Foreign citizens can apply for a residency permit in Albania by starting a business. This route is commonly used by entrepreneurs, consultants, digital service providers, and investors who want to live legally in Albania while managing their own company.

The process is legally recognized and supported under the Law on Foreigners (Law no. 79/2021).

Who Qualifies for This Route

This residency pathway is open to any non-Albanian national who:

• Opens a registered company in Albania (typically a sole-owned sh.p.k)

• Appoints themselves as administrator or legal representative

• Has a valid business address and tax registration

• Can show basic financial means and business activity

The company must be real and active. Shell companies or paper-only structures may be rejected during the permit review process.

Step-by-Step Process

The process starts with forming a business and ends with submitting a residency application to the Migration Directorate. Here’s how it works:

1. Register a company at the National Business Center (QKB), usually a single-owner limited company (sh.p.k)

2. Obtain a NIPT (tax number) and open a business bank account

3. Apply for social security and health insurance registration

4. Gather required documents, including lease agreement, business license (if applicable), and tax certificates

5. Submit your residency application as a self-employed individual through business ownership

6. Receive the permit, which is usually valid for 1 year and renewable

In some cases, the application must be filed from your home country’s Albanian consulate before arrival, unless legal entry was already made on a valid visa-free stay.

Required Documents

Authorities typically request the following:

• Business registration extract from QKB

• Tax number and proof of activity

• Lease or property contract

• Bank statement or financial means

• Health insurance coverage

• Passport copy and recent photos

• Clean criminal record

• Completed application form

Documents must be translated into Albanian and may require legalization (apostille or notarization, depending on the country of origin).

Permit Duration and Renewal

Initial permits are valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually as long as the business remains active and in compliance with tax and legal obligations.

After 5 years of continuous legal stay, you may qualify for permanent residency.

Key Advantages

This method offers flexibility, especially for remote workers, freelancers, or investors who want to base themselves in Albania. There are no minimum capital requirements, and the process is relatively fast compared to other residency routes.

However, ongoing business activity and tax compliance are essential to maintain the permit.