Buying an existing business in Albania is a practical way to enter the market quickly. Whether you’re acquiring a small hotel, a local café, or an established services company, the process must follow clear legal steps to avoid risk.
Share Transfer or Asset Purchase?
There are two ways to legally acquire a business in Albania: a share transfer or an asset purchase.
In a share transfer, you take over the company’s legal identity. This includes its contracts, licenses, employees, assets, and liabilities. It’s the most common method, especially for small and medium-sized businesses that are already operating.
An asset purchase means acquiring only selected parts of a business, such as real estate, equipment, or brand assets. This method may offer cleaner control, but it requires setting up your own legal entity in Albania and often involves additional paperwork.
Legal Due Diligence
Before signing anything, buyers must perform proper due diligence. This means verifying that the company is registered with the National Business Center (QKB), checking its financial records, confirming it holds valid licenses, and reviewing any pending legal disputes.
If the business owns property, title verification is essential. Unregistered assets or missing ownership history can delay the transfer or lead to future legal claims. Buyers should also request a tax clearance certificate from the tax authorities, confirming there are no outstanding obligations tied to the business.
The Share Purchase Agreement
Once due diligence is complete, a Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) is drafted and signed before a licensed Albanian notary. This document outlines the sale terms, the identity of the buyer and seller, the price, and responsibility for any existing liabilities.
If the buyer cannot attend in person, the process can be completed using a Power of Attorney. The document must be legalized in the buyer’s country and translated into Albanian before use.
Registration with QKB
After the agreement is notarized, the ownership change must be recorded at the National Business Center. This officially updates the company’s shareholder list and administrator if needed. Without this step, the transaction has no legal force in Albania.
In regulated sectors such as hospitality, tourism, construction, or health, licenses may need to be renewed or reissued under the name of the new owner. This process varies depending on the business type and must be handled carefully to avoid business interruption.
Taxes and Additional Costs
The seller may be subject to capital gains tax, while the buyer may incur transfer tax if the company owns real estate. Other costs include notary fees, legal advisory fees, and QKB registration charges. These should all be factored into your acquisition planning.
Working with a local accountant or legal consultant is strongly advised to ensure the deal is structured properly and in compliance with Albanian tax law.
Buying a business in Albania is a secure and efficient option—when done correctly. Investors must follow all legal procedures, including notarized contracts, government registration, and proper due diligence.