Albania Travel with UK BRP

Complete guide to visiting Albania visa-free for 90 days

90 Days Visa-Free

Key Information

Duration
90 days
BRP Required
Previously Used
All Nationalities
Accepted*
Digital Status
Verify First

Albania Visa Policy for UK BRP Holders

Generous 90-day visa-free access under Law No. 79/2021

Albania offers one of Europe's most generous visa-free entry policies for UK BRP holders, allowing stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Under Law No. 79/2021, foreign nationals holding valid multiple-entry visas or residence permits from the United Kingdom, European Union, United States, or Canada can enter Albania without requiring a separate visa.

This policy makes Albania an excellent destination for UK residents of all nationalities, including those who would typically need visas for most European countries. The arrangement is particularly beneficial as Albania is not part of the EU or Schengen Area, so time spent in Albania does not count toward your Schengen 90/180-day limit.

Critical Requirement

Your UK visa or BRP must have been previously used to enter the United Kingdom at least once. A newly issued BRP that hasn't been used to enter the UK may not be accepted by Albanian immigration officers.

Iranian Nationals

There have been reports of additional scrutiny for Iranian passport holders despite holding valid UK documents. It's recommended to contact the Albanian embassy beforehand to confirm current requirements.

Required Documents

What you need to bring for entry

Essential Documents

  • Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond planned departure from Albania
  • UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or valid UK residence permit
  • UK multiple-entry visa (previously used to enter UK)
  • Digital eVisa status (acceptance currently unclear - verify with embassy)

Supporting Documents (Recommended)

  • Return/onward flight ticket (not always checked but recommended)
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or address)
  • Financial proof (approximately €50+ per day recommended)
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Evidence of previous UK entry (passport stamps showing UK usage)

Digital eVisa Status

With the UK's transition to digital eVisas in 2025, acceptance by Albanian authorities is currently unclear. It's strongly recommended to contact the Albanian embassy to verify acceptance of digital UK immigration status before travel.

Entry Process

Step-by-step guide through Albanian immigration

1

Prepare Documents

Ensure all required documents are ready and easily accessible. Have your passport and UK BRP/residence permit ready for presentation.

2

Immigration Queue

Join the "Non-EU/Non-Albanian" queue at Albanian border control. Present your passport and UK immigration document to the officer.

3

Document Review

Officer will examine your UK BRP/visa and check for previous UK usage. They may ask questions about your stay duration and purpose.

4

Entry Stamp

If approved, your passport will be stamped with the entry date. Ensure you receive the entry stamp - you'll need it for departure.

Entry Stamp Essential

Always ensure your passport is stamped on entry. Without an entry stamp, you may face significant difficulties when departing Albania or re-entering the country.

Length of Stay & Restrictions

90/180 day rule and limitations

Stay Duration

  • Maximum stay: 90 days within any 180-day period
  • Counting method: Rolling 180-day period (similar to Schengen rules)
  • Extensions: Not available for visa-free entries
  • Re-entry: Possible after exiting and resetting the 90-day period

Permitted Activities

Allowed

Tourism, business meetings, conferences, photography, cultural activities, remote work for non-Albanian employers, visiting friends/family

Prohibited Activities

Not Permitted

Employment by Albanian companies, receiving income from Albanian sources, establishing a business, studying (long-term), political activities, overstaying 90 days

Overstay Consequences

  • Fines imposed at departure
  • Potential entry ban for future visits
  • Deportation in severe cases
  • Complications for future European travel

Practical Travel Information

Essential tips for your Albania visit

Currency & Costs

  • Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
  • Budget meals: €3-6
  • Mid-range dining: €8-17
  • Budget accommodation: €15-30/night
  • Local transport: €0.50-2 per journey

Getting Around

  • Public buses: Connect most towns and cities (limited schedules)
  • Car rental: Available at Tirana airport and major cities
  • Driving: International Driving Permit recommended
  • Taxis: Available in cities, agree on fare beforehand

Communication

  • Official language: Albanian
  • Common languages: English (in tourist areas), Italian, Greek
  • Mobile networks: Vodafone, Telekom Albania, One
  • SIM cards: Available at airport and city centers
  • Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants

Safety & Health

  • Crime rate: Low violent crime, standard precautions advised
  • Healthcare: Basic healthcare available, travel insurance recommended
  • Emergency number: 112 (general emergency)
  • Road conditions: Variable, mountain roads can be challenging

Official Sources & Verification

Authoritative information sources

Primary Official Sources

UK Government Sources

Additional Verification

Embassy Contact Recommended

Given the transition to UK digital eVisas, it's strongly recommended to contact the Albanian Embassy London directly to verify current acceptance of digital immigration status before travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common queries about Albania travel with UK BRP

Your UK visa or BRP must have been used at least once to enter the United Kingdom. This means you must have physically entered the UK using your current immigration document. A newly issued BRP or visa that hasn't been used for UK entry may be rejected by Albanian border officials. Your passport should show UK entry stamps as evidence.

Yes, working remotely for a non-Albanian employer (such as your UK company) is generally permitted on a tourist entry. However, you cannot work for Albanian companies or receive income from Albanian sources without proper work authorization.

Albania is generally considered safe for international travelers, including solo travelers and women. The country has low violent crime rates and Albanians are known for their hospitality. Standard travel precautions should be taken, and it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in remote areas.

No, Albania is not part of the Schengen Area, so time spent in Albania does not count toward your Schengen 90/180-day limit. This makes Albania an excellent option for UK residents who want to extend their European travels beyond the Schengen limit.

Overstaying can result in fines at departure, potential entry bans for future visits, and in severe cases, deportation. It may also complicate future European travel. Always ensure you exit Albania before your 90-day period expires. Extensions are not available for visa-free entries.

This is currently unclear. With the UK's transition to digital eVisas in 2025, Albania's acceptance of digital UK immigration status has not been officially confirmed. It's essential to contact the Albanian Embassy London before travel to verify current requirements for digital eVisa holders.

⚠️ General Information Disclaimer

Important: This website provides general information only and should not be relied upon as official immigration advice. Visa policies, entry requirements, and immigration rules can change frequently without notice. All travelers are strongly advised to verify current requirements with official sources before booking travel or making any travel-related decisions.

Official Verification Required: Always check with the Albanian Embassy, UK Foreign Office travel advice, and other authoritative sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information. This site accepts no responsibility for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided.

Last Updated: Information on this page was compiled in May 2025. For the most current requirements, visit the official sources listed above.

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Remember to verify current requirements with the Albanian Embassy before travel, especially regarding digital eVisa acceptance.

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