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Albania

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At a glance

Living index rating
Very affordable
Monthly rent
€150 – €300 for a shared flat or dorm; one-bed flat in central Tirana €250 – €500
Monthly food
€150 – €250
Other monthly expenses
€70 – €150 (transport, utilities, phone, personal)
Visa processing time
About 15 – 30 working days
Family allowed for students
Limited

Visa requirements

  • D visa if your nationality needs one; then apply online via e-Albania for a residence permit for study within 30 days of arriving (for stays over 90 days)
  • Acceptance document from your Albanian institution
  • Proof of accommodation and of sufficient funds (about €336 a month, or savings of about €3,150)
  • Passport, recent photo and health insurance
  • The permit is usually valid for 12 months and renewed while you study
  • Part-time work is only possible with the right authorisation; check with your university

Work permit after studies

  • No dedicated post-study visa
  • Graduates need a job offer and a single work and residence permit

Citizenship route

  • Permanent residence after 5 consecutive years of legal residence (time on a study permit may not count fully)
  • Citizenship by naturalisation after 5 years of continuous legal residence, with basic Albanian, income and accommodation

Family details

  • Family reunification residence exists for spouses and children of foreigners with residence, mainly for workers and long-term residents
  • Check with the Border and Migration Police before planning to bring family

Universities in Albania

World-ranked

All other universities and colleges (35), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.