Albania is now one of the easiest places in Europe to start a business. The costs are low. The process is simple. And foreigners can own a company in full. If you want a base in Europe for trade, tourism, IT, or services, Albania is a smart choice.
This guide explains how to register a company in Albania as a foreigner, step by step, in simple words. Bonita Travel and Tours helps clients from all over the world with Albania company registration, investor residence, and visas. If you want personal help at any step, message us on WhatsApp at +92 321 5107411.
Why Start a Company in Albania?
- 100% foreign ownership. You do not need a local partner.
- Very low start-up cost. The minimum capital for an LLC is symbolic — typically 100 Albanian lek.
- Fast process. Registration often takes only a few working days.
- Growing economy. Tourism, trade, and online services are growing every year.
- A path to residence. A real, active company can support your application for an investor or business residence permit.
Company Types in Albania
Most foreign owners choose one of these:
- Limited Liability Company (Sh.p.k.) — the most popular type. One or more owners. Your personal assets stay separate from the company. Best for most small and medium businesses.
- Individual Business (Person Fizik) — a simple sole trader registration. Good for very small activities and freelancers.
- Branch of a foreign company — useful if you already have a company in another country and want an Albania presence.
For most foreigners, the LLC (Sh.p.k.) is the right start.
Documents You Need
Keep these ready before you start:
- A valid passport for each owner and director
- A company name (prepare 2–3 options in case one is taken)
- A registered address in Albania (an office or a legal address service)
- The list of business activities your company will do
- Articles of association (the company rules — we help you prepare these)
- If a company is a shareholder: its registration papers, translated into Albanian and legalised
Foreign documents usually need an apostille and a sworn Albanian translation.
How to Register a Company in Albania — Step by Step
- Choose your company type and name. Check that the name is free.
- Prepare the documents. Articles of association, owner details, address, and activity list.
- Apply at the National Business Center (QKB). Applications are filed at QKB offices or online through the e-Albania portal. Many foreigners use a local representative with a power of attorney, so you do not need to travel for the filing itself.
- Get your registration and tax number (NUIS). Tax registration is done together with the business registration, so you receive your unique tax identification number with your company extract.
- Open a business bank account. Albanian banks open accounts for foreign-owned companies with the registration extract and passport.
- Start trading. Register for any extra licences only if your activity needs them (for example tourism, food, or finance).
Government filing fees in Albania are low, and the full process typically takes a few working days once the documents are complete. Fees and timelines can change, so confirm the exact cost and time for your case before you start.
Does a Company Give You Residence in Albania?
A company on its own is not a residence permit. But a real, active business is the main document behind an Albania investor visa and residence permit application. If your plan is to live in Albania and run your business there, read our full guide on the investor route, and our general Albania visa guide for other visa types. You can also see all our visa and consultancy services.
How Bonita Travel and Tours Helps You
We handle the full process for foreign clients: name check, documents, translation and legalisation guidance, QKB filing, bank account support, and your residence permit file after registration. You get one clear plan, in simple English, before you pay anything.
Ready to start? Send us a message on WhatsApp at +92 321 5107411 and tell us what business you want to open in Albania. We will confirm the exact cost, the documents, and the timeline for your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Albania?
Yes. Albanian law allows full foreign ownership of an LLC. You do not need an Albanian partner or shareholder.
What is the minimum capital for an LLC in Albania?
The minimum share capital is very low — typically 100 Albanian lek. In practice, many owners deposit a higher amount to look stronger with banks and partners.
Do I need to travel to Albania to register a company?
Usually not for the registration itself. A representative can file for you with a power of attorney. You may need to travel later for your bank account or residence permit steps.
How long does company registration take in Albania?
With complete documents, registration typically takes a few working days. Translation and legalisation of foreign documents can add extra days.
Does owning a company give me residence in Albania?
Not automatically. An active company can support your application for an investor or business residence permit, but each case is decided by the Albanian authorities. We explain the full route in our Albania investor visa guide.
