On 07.07.2023, the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Albania adopted the Decision "On the determination of entry, residence, and employment in the Republic of Albania of foreign nationals, employees of an IT company" (hereinafter referred to as the “Decision”).
The Decision, which implements the provisions of Law no. 79/2021 “On foreigners” (hereinafter referred to as the “Law”), determines the entry, stay, and employment of foreigners in the Republic of Albania, who are employees of an Information Technology Company.
According to this Decision, a foreign national who, at the time of crossing any of the border crossing points during entry into the territory of Albania, proves that will be employed by an IT company through a declaration issued by the company itself, has the right to enter without a visa and stay without a unique permit in the Republic of Albania for a period of up to 1 (one) year.
The company must have as primary activity, computer programming, consulting, and related services, data processing, hosting, and related activities, internet portals, and/or publishing computer programs, according to the economic activity nomenclature approved by the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Albania. Additionally, the company should conduct activities as a user in science and technology parks as per the applicable law.
During this period, the foreign national may apply for a unique permit in the Republic of Albania, based on the criteria, documentation, and procedures set forth in the Decision of the Council of Ministers, “On the determination of criteria, procedures, and documentation for the entry, residence, and treatment of foreigners in the Republic of Albania”, as amended.
The Decision was published in the Official Gazette no. 103, dated July 11, 2023, and entered into force on the date of its publication.
By Aidi Milo, Managing Associate, Deloitte Legal
