Expat Albania

If you are looking for maximum adventure in Europe, Albania could be it. Traveling and living in Albania is a real trip. Albania was a communist country for the better part of 50 years during the 20th century and since the end of communism in the region, Albania has had a tough time making the transition. While the government is democratic, poverty and lawlessness are rampant.

While in most areas, travelers and expats are generally safe, it is far less safe than most other European countries. Albania is situated between Kosovo and Greece. It is primarily a Muslim country; however the people are not Turkish or Slavic decent. While Albania doesn't have many conveniences of most western countries, it does have beautiful culture, warm people and a very interesting history. If you are looking to make a difference, definitely look into the wonderful opportunities of becoming an expat in Albania.

Climate

Albania for the most part is a small country, around the size of Maryland. While most people live in the capital city of Tirana, others are spread out in other main cities. Albania is located between Greece and parts of the former Yugoslavia. It is on the Balkan Peninsula. The climate is usually mild temperate. During the winter months, expect cool temperatures and lots of rain. During the summer months, the temperature is very hot and the humidity is low making the air dry.

Government

For 50 years Albania was under communist rule. Today, Albania is considered an emerging democracy. The government has a unicameral assembly and the seats are determined by popular, direct vote. There is also a president which is the head of state and a civil law system that is similar in structure to other European countries.

Unfortunately, Albania is a very poor country and lacks infrastructure such as proper roads and proper utilities, however inroads are being made. The perception from those that visit and live in Albania is that corruption is rampant and police are frequently responsible for shakedowns of tourists.

While once in the main cities, it is generally safe, caution should be taken when traveling in remote regions. You can find more information about Albania from the United States Embassy in Tirana. You can learn more about Albania from the Embassy of the Republic of Albania in the United Kingdom.

Tax System

Albania has some of the lowest tax rates in Europe. Albania uses its low tax rates to drum up investments and opportunities. The top individual income tax rate is 20% and the top corporate tax rate is 20% as well. Albania has other taxes including a value added tax, tax on vehicles and property taxes.

Medical Care

While during the communist times, Albania had an adequate health care system, today, much of the health care is dilapidated or in need of repair. Health care in Albania is adequate at best, if you are seriously ill, most expats are evacuated to their home country. While there are a few hospitals and clinics in Albania, most expats prefer to leave the country for major or even moderate procedures.

Real Estate

For most westerners, you will be very disappointed in the real estate located in Albania. Albania real estate usually doesn't meet the standards of most westerners. However if you are looking to purchase real estate, make sure you have close ties to family or friends in the area. Corruption can be a huge obstacle for purchasing real estate in Albania and the pace of the courts when dealing with contractual issues can be a deal breaker.

Renting an apartment is much easier. For a high end apartment in Albania, expect to pay $800 to $1200 per month. If you just need a basic place to stay, rent can be found for $200 to $400 per month.

Shopping

For those looking for a shopper's paradise in Albania, you will be disappointed. For most people in Albania finding the necessities can be difficult, so finding luxury items or other types of consumer goods can sometimes be out of the question. It should be noted that with an influx of investment and more infrastructure being built, goods and services should increase in the years to come.

However, food and entertainment are available and if you like ethnic foods from Italy and Greece; you will enjoy the food choices in Albania. There are also a few establishments to enjoy a beverage; however it should be noted that the majority of Albania's are Muslim. Unfortunately the roads and other types of infrastructure are extremely poor so importing items is usually a slow go.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Albania is extremely low; however there is not much that is offered. Where other countries offer lots of goods and services for a relatively low amount of money, Albania doesn't offer that much in either products or services. The biggest expense is usually housing, however other expenses such as utilities and owning a car can be extremely expensive as well.

For those looking to live in Albania make sure that you are going to this region for the right reason. If your goal is to find a cheap watering hole, there are plenty of other places on the planet that will give you more bang for your buck. Albania has had a difficult time with transitioning from communist rule and with poor infrastructure and poverty; it will take many years and a lot of help to reach its full potential.

Blogs from Expats in Albania

Our Man in Tirana

A British expat in Tirana.

Extradition from Albania

The Treaty of Extradition Between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Albania went into effect in 1935.

In those days it was common for extradition treaties to list specific offenses for which extradition would be granted. As such, extradition from Albania to the United States can only be accomplished for serious and real offenses.