Albania

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 or 129 for police. 
• Dial 127 or 128 for the fire department.
• Dial 112 for ambulance services. 

Not all operators speak English, but they will attempt to connect you with an English-speaking responder when possible. 

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools 
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common in Albania. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.  
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Large demonstrations, even if peaceful, can create traffic congestion and lead to closures of public transportation, roadways, and sidewalks.

Crime

The overall crime rate for the country is moderate. Albania has a moderate rate of property-related crime.

As a safety precaution due to the potential for retaliatory violence and/or reports of unfair business practices and safety concerns, the following restaurants are off-limits for U.S. Embassy personnel:

• Juvenilja 
• Juvenilja  Castle
• Pastiçeri Venezia
• Magic Club

The most common criminal activities are: 

• robberies 
• vehicle break-ins 
• theft
• pickpocketing in tourist areas  

Criminals sometimes use guns and explosives to settle disputes. Most explosive incidents in Albania happen at night. Foreigners are rarely the intended targets, but bystanders can be harmed.

Safety tips

• Always stay alert, especially after dark and in tourist locations, such as cafés, parking garages, shopping areas, and restaurants.
• Protect your property from theft and never leave your belongings unattended. 
• Travel in groups and stay in well-lit areas after dark.
• Avoid carrying large sums of money.
• People wearing backpacks stand out and attract the attention of pickpockets.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Albania. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. 

Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include: 

• Romance and online dating 
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Money transfers 
• Taxi overcharging
• Inflated bar and club bills 

If using dating apps or websites in Albania:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.  
• Meet in a popular public place. 
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  Dial 129 for police, 112 for the national emergency line, or 127 for the medical emergency line: 

Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.  
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

Albania has strict drone regulations. 

• Drones over 250 grams require prior authorization from Civil Aviation authorities.  
• Drones under 250 grams do not require prior authorization. 
• Flying a drone without permission can result in confiscated equipment and large fines, especially overcrowded areas, historical sites, or near government and military buildings.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs. 
• Staff may not be trained or certified. 
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care. 
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.

Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel 

Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.  

• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Albania seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Photography in Albania

It is against the law to photograph military or secure installations. This includes:  

• airports
• equipment
• bridges
• government checkpoints
• troops
• embassies 

When in doubt, ask permission before taking photographs.

Illegal drugs

Penalties are severe for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs. Courts impose long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

Detention conditions

The judicial process can be lengthy. 

• Living conditions in prisons are improving but are difficult. 
• Prisoners live in close quarters and have limited access to phones. Family members purchase toiletries, comfortable bedding, and personal articles for the prisoner.
• A detention facility may not provide you with essential medications or medical care.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

There are no current legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations.  Albania does not restrict the organization of lesbian or gay activists, from holding events at, visiting, or working in educational institutions in Albania.

Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Albania prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is partially enforced.

• The most common types of accessibility may include wheelchair accessibility in newer shopping centers, recently renovated public buildings, and a few high-end international hotels.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation:
  • City buses and trams frequently lack ramps.  
  • Lodging, especially historic, boutique, or budget accommodations may not be accessible.
  • There are few sign language interpreters, accessible websites, or Braille signage.
  • General infrastructure is limited. There are narrow sidewalks, high curbs, uneven pavements, and steep, cobblestone streets.
• Accessibility is more common in major transportation hubs like the Tirana International Airport, modern shopping malls, and large international chain hotels. 
• There is a significant difference between the cities and the rest of the country.  Outside of Tirana, accessible infrastructure and specialized services are generally unavailable.
• People with disabilities may face more social stigma here than in the United States. Locals are friendly and often offer help, but some outdated attitudes about disabilities still exist.
• Travelers should be prepared to directly and clearly state how they prefer to be helped.  Hospitality staff and the public usually lack formal awareness or training on how to properly help travelers with specific accessibility needs.

Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Albania prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Albania Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for the national emergency line.
• Dial 127 for ambulance services.

Ambulance services

Private ambulance services are available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may be poor. Ambulances may not be equipped with advanced medical equipment.  

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Albania. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment (in the local currency, Lek, though some may accept Euros).
• Credit card payment is not always available, especially in smaller or rural clinics.
• Private hospitals and clinics often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice 

Healthcare facilities 

Health facilities are available in Tirana, and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.  
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• In public hospitals only minimal staff are available overnight in non-emergency wards.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery 

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor. 

• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Albania.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Albania

Prescription medications 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

• Be sure to bring enough of your prescription medication (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the entire duration of your trip.
• Check with the General Directorate of Customs to ensure the medication is legal in Albania.
• Albania does not allow the importation of marijuana-derived compounds, such as cannabidiol (CBD), even with a prescription. Travelers should avoid carrying CBD products.  
• You are strictly limited to a 7-day supply of any medications that are considered controlled substances in the United States. This includes ADHD stimulants like Adderall and opioids like Oxycontin. Make sure you carry a valid U.S. prescription.  Travelers may face difficulties bringing these medications into Albania without proper documentation.
• Do not try to have medications shipped to you. Under Albania law, the import of medications via mail is strictly regulated. Customs will generally only clear shipments with a statement signed by a physician licensed in Albania. 
• Bring enough of your medications with you in your carry-on luggage.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Albania to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 
• Surrogacy is not regulated in Albania.  If you do not follow local law, you may risk legal consequences.  

Water quality and food safety 

• Local water (tap, well water, springs, etc.) is not safe to drink in Albania.  
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
• You should request no ice in your drinks when traveling outside major cities, since it may be made using tap water. Hot beverages made with boiled water (coffee, tea) are generally considered safer than room temperature beverages.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Albania.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• Air pollution is a significant problem in most cities in Albania.  Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.
• The air quality changes by season. It is at its worst in the winter. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure are:
  • Infants, children, and teens
  • People over 65 years of age
  • People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which include chronic bronchitis and emphysema
  • People with heart disease or diabetes
  • People who work or are active outdoors

For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Common diseases 

Measles is a serious health concern in Albania. Review the CDC recommendations for Albania. 

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Albania has a high rate of traffic accidents. The country’s road system consists of 2-lane roads that wind through steep mountain passes and deep river canyons.

Road conditions

• Many roads are poorly maintained and may be blocked by landslides, public gatherings, or traffic accidents. 
• Major highways have adequate signs, but secondary and rural roads often have poor or no signage. 
• Traffic law enforcement is inconsistent.

Driving dangers

• Avoid driving at night outside major cities. Rural and mountain roads often lack lighting and guardrails, and you may encounter stray animals, unlit horse-drawn carts, and slow-moving farm vehicles. 
• Winter driving from November through April is especially dangerous due to heavy snow, black ice, and sudden dense fog in valleys and mountain passes. 
• Be alert for drivers who overtake on blind turns, drive intoxicated, or speed.

If you need help

Roadside assistance is generally reliable but may be slow to reach remote mountain areas. 

• Dial 112 for the police if you have vehicle problems.  
• If you're in a collision, you must call the police and wait for them to arrive and file a report before moving your vehicle, unless the vehicles create an immediate, serious danger to other traffic. 
• Major highways are adequately marked.  Signage on secondary and rural roads is often poor or nonexistent. Enforcement of traffic laws is inconsistent. 

Travelers should call the police via 112 if they have vehicle issues

Traffic laws  

Driver’s license and documents

• You must have both a valid U.S. driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive or rent a car in Albania.  Get your IDP in the United States before you travel.  
• Always carry your U.S. passport, driver's license, IDP, and vehicle registration or insurance documents while driving.

If you have an accident

• Call the police and remain at the scene for an official report, even for minor accidents. Do not move your vehicle unless it poses an immediate danger to traffic. 

Driving laws and requirements

• Seat belts are mandatory. 
• Talking on a cell phone while driving is illegal. 
• The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.01 percent, which is effectively a zero tolerance policy.  Your car must have a safety vest, spare tire, jack, first aid kit, safety triangle, tow rope, and spare light bulbs. 
• Snow tires are required from November through April. 
• Police frequently set up checkpoints. If asked for a bribe instead of a formal ticket, politely decline to pay on the spot and ask for an official written citation to be paid at a local bank or post office.

Taxis and ride-shares

Licensed, officially marked taxis are heavily regulated, generally safe, and widely available in major cities.  

• Do not enter unmarked or unlicensed taxis. 
• Ensure the driver turns on the taxi meter as soon as you enter the vehicle.  If the driver says the meter is broken, exit the vehicle and find another taxi.
• Most taxis do not accept credit cards and only accept local currency.  Make sure you have small bills before hailing a ride. Drivers may say they do not have change.

Public and commercial transportation 

Public transportation such as buses, taxis, trams, and trains works in and between major cities. 

• These operators are licensed and post their fares.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Albania’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Note for air travelers: During the winter months, flights at Tirana’s airport are frequently delayed or canceled due to heavy fog. Be prepared for last-minute cancellations, schedule changes, lengthy delays, alternate routings, or time-consuming overland transportation.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Albania should check the following:  

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts 
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather and Natural disasters

• Flooding and landslides – Heavy rains and rapid snowmelt cause severe flooding and landslides. This is common in the spring from April to June, and autumn from October to November. 
• Wildfires – During the hot, dry summer months from July to September, wildfires are common.  These fires can lead to road closures, destroy hiking trails, and reduce air quality.
• Severe winter weather and avalanches – Winter months from November to April bring heavy snowfall, ice, and dense fog to the mountainous regions.  This creates dangerous driving conditions. There are severe avalanche risks for backcountry skiers and hikers in the mountains.
• Earthquakes – Albania sits in a seismically active zone.  Moderate to severe earthquakes can occur year-round without warning.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates