Residence & citizenship
Albanian Permanent Residence Permit
Long-term settlement status for foreigners after a qualifying period of continuous legal residence.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Verify the exact continuous-residence period required for permanent residence (five years is commonly cited) and any exceptions against Law 79/2021.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Albania government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Permanent residence permit
- Route type
- Settlement / long-term residence
- Legal basis
- Law No. 79/2021 On Foreigners
- Qualifying residence
- Continuous legal residence, commonly stated as five years
- Confirm the exact qualifying period in Law 79/2021
- Eligibility
- 5 years of continuous legal residence in Albania
- Counted from the first residence permit application, under Law 79/2021.
- Where to apply
- Online via the e-Albania portal, finalised at the immigration office
Who it is for
- Foreigners who have held temporary residence permits for the required continuous period
- Those intending to settle in Albania long-term
Requirements
- Required period of continuous legal residence in Albania
- Valid current residence status and clean legal record
- Evidence of means of support and accommodation
How to apply
- Apply through the e-Albania portal to the Border and Migration Authority
- Submit proof of continuous residence and supporting documents
Documents you may need
- A valid passport or travel document.
- Evidence of five years of continuous legal residence (previous residence permits).
- Proof of accommodation in Albania.
- Proof of stable income or financial self-sufficiency.
- A criminal-record certificate.
- Passport-standard photographs.
Frequently asked questions
Once you have completed at least five years of continuous, legal residence in Albania on valid residence permits, counted from your first residence permit application.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.