How to get Albanian citizenship in 2025 — naturalisation, marriage & descent

Albanian citizenship in 2025 grants full rights within Albania and visa-free access to over 110 countries. The process is governed by the Ligji i Shtetësisë — the Albanian Citizenship Law. Applicants may qualify through naturalisation, marriage, or descent. This guide explains requirements, documents, timelines, and what changed in 2025.

Key terms to know

• Ligji i Shtetësisë — Citizenship Law of Albania.
• Natyralizim — the process of naturalisation in Albania.
• Dekreti Presidencial — Presidential decree granting final approval for citizenship.
• Shqiptari me origjinë — Albanians by origin, eligible for simplified citizenship.
• Dyshtetësia — dual citizenship, allowed in Albania.

Routes to Albanian citizenship in 2025

Step-by-step naturalisation process

1. Hold legal residence in Albania for 7 years (5 years if married to an Albanian).
2. Apply at the Ministry of Interior with complete forms and documents.
3. Provide biometrics, police clearance, and proof of financial stability.
4. Demonstrate integration, including basic knowledge of Albanian language.
5. Application is reviewed by the Ministry of Interior.
6. Final approval issued by Dekreti Presidencial — the Presidential decree.
7. Collect citizenship certificate and apply for Albanian passport.

Citizenship by descent

Albanians by origin (shqiptari me origjinë) benefit from simplified procedures. Children and grandchildren of Albanian citizens can apply directly, even if born abroad. Documents proving lineage, such as birth and marriage certificates, are required.

Citizenship by marriage

Foreign spouses of Albanian citizens may apply after 3 years of marriage and legal residence. Proof of genuine cohabitation and integration is required, and applications are carefully reviewed to prevent fraud.

Documents checklist

• Valid passport
• Residence permit or proof of residence
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of Albanian origin (if applying by descent)
• Police clearance certificate from home country and Albania
• Health insurance
• Bank statements showing sufficient income
• Application form and fee receipt

Costs and timelines

In 2025, naturalisation fees are around €200. Applications by descent and marriage are less costly, often under €100. Processing takes 12–24 months for naturalisation, and 6–12 months for descent-based citizenship. Exceptional grants depend on government decision.

What changed in 2025

• Residence requirement for naturalisation reduced from 10 years to 7 years.
• New online portal launched for citizenship applications in Tirana and major cities.
• Faster processing for Albanians of origin abroad.
• Marriage route requires stricter proof of genuine cohabitation.

Did you know?

Albania is famous for its stunning coastline along the Ionian Sea, often called the "Albanian Riviera". In recent years, it has become one of Europe’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, which adds appeal for new citizens.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Applying without meeting the 7-year residence requirement.
• Submitting incomplete proof of descent for ancestry claims.
• Believing marriage automatically grants citizenship.
• Not translating foreign documents into Albanian.

FAQ about Albanian citizenship

• How many years of residence are needed for naturalisation? In 2025, 7 years of legal stay are required.
• Does Albania allow dual citizenship? Yes, dual citizenship is fully permitted.
• Can Albanians by origin apply from abroad? Yes, applications can be made via Albanian consulates.
• Do I need to pass a language test? Basic Albanian knowledge is required for naturalisation.

Expert opinion

“Albanian citizenship in 2025 has become more accessible, especially for Albanians by origin. However, applicants should prepare carefully, as descent documentation is closely reviewed.” — VelesClub Int. Immigration Team

Next steps

Explore our platform and check the Residency & Citizenship hub for detailed guides. Visit our main page or go directly to the Residency & Citizenship hub.