Foreigners can fully own apartments, houses and villas in Albania. A finished property in Vlorë can be bought in 2 to 8 weeks, and closing costs are about 1.5–3.5% of the price. This guide explains each step, the costs and the residence permit, as checked in October 2026.
Can foreigners buy property in Albania?
Yes. Foreigners can buy apartments, houses and villas in their own name, with the same title as an Albanian owner. The main restriction is agricultural land, which foreigners cannot buy directly.
6 steps to buy in Vlorë
- Choose the property. View it in person or by live video call with us. Every 4 Horizont apartment has its floor plan, m² and price online.
- Reserve it. Sign a reservation agreement and pay a deposit, so the unit is taken off the market while checks run. The deposit is agreed per project.
- Independent legal check. Your own lawyer checks the title and any debts at the State Cadastre (ASHK). For off-plan units they also check the building permit and the developer. Legal fees are usually 500–2,000 €.
- Tax number and bank account. You get an Albanian tax identification number and, if you want one, a local bank account. Payments go by bank transfer, never in cash.
- Sign at the notary. The contract is signed before a public notary, with a sworn translator if you do not speak Albanian. If you cannot travel, a notarised and apostilled power of attorney lets your lawyer sign for you.
- Register the title at ASHK. Registration usually takes 5–15 working days. You then receive the ownership certificate in your name.
Buying off-plan (for example at 4 Horizont or Belvedere): the contract and its payment plan are signed at the notary first, and the title is registered when the building is complete.
What does it cost?
| Cost | Typical amount | Paid by |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer tax | None for the buyer | – |
| Notary | About 0.5–1% of the price | Buyer |
| ASHK registration | A small fixed fee | Buyer |
| Independent lawyer | 500–2,000 € | Buyer |
| Capital gains tax | 15% of the gain | Seller |
In total, expect about 1.5–3.5% of the purchase price on top.
Taxes after you buy
- A small local property tax is charged every year.
- Rental income (including Airbnb) is taxed at a flat 15%.
- If you sell later, 15% tax applies to your capital gain.
Residence permit through property
Property owners can apply for a 1-year residence permit that is renewed while they own the home (Law 79/2021, Art. 84). The qualifying conditions were updated by Law 43/2025 from 2026, so confirm the current threshold with an immigration lawyer before you buy. It is not a golden visa and does not lead to citizenship on its own. Without a permit, EU and Schengen citizens can stay 90 days in any 180, US citizens up to 1 year, and Russian citizens need a visa.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy property in Albania?
Yes. Foreigners can fully own apartments, houses and villas in their own name. The main restriction is agricultural land, which foreigners cannot buy directly.
What does it cost to buy a property in Vlorë?
About 1.5–3.5% of the price on top. There is no buyer transfer tax. You pay the notary (about 0.5–1%), ASHK registration and your lawyer (usually 500–2,000 €). The seller pays 15% tax on any capital gain.
Can I get a residence permit by buying property in Albania?
Property owners can apply for a 1-year residence permit that is renewed while they own the home (Law 79/2021, Art. 84). Conditions were updated by Law 43/2025, so confirm the current threshold with an immigration lawyer. It is not a golden visa.
Is buying off-plan safe?
It is safest when your lawyer checks the building permit and the developer before you sign, and the contract with its payment plan is signed at a notary. Prime Vlora works with Lider2020 and established developers in Vlorë.
Can I buy without travelling to Albania?
Yes. A notarised and apostilled power of attorney lets your lawyer sign at the notary for you.
Can you rent the property out for me?
Yes. We list, price, clean and host your home on Airbnb and Booking for 30% of rental income, all-inclusive, cleaning included.
Ready to look at properties? Message us on WhatsApp at +355 69 570 4809 – we answer in English, Italian and Albanian.
General information checked in October 2026. It is not legal or tax advice: always confirm with an independent Albanian lawyer before you sign.
