The Albanian government has decided to ease access for foreign students who wish to study in Albania, whether at private or public universities. A new decree issued recently includes several measures aimed at simplifying the bureaucracy related to visas and residence permits.
The regulation approved by the Council of Ministers states that a suitable housing self-declaration may be issued by the foreign student applying for a visa. If the student does not provide such a declaration, the housing document can be issued by the university (if it provides this service) or by other entities that offer housing services.
A financial coverage certificate is required, amounting to 300,000 Lek (approximately €2,800) in a bank account in the student’s home country. Additionally, proof of knowledge of the language of the study program—or confirmation of acceptance to a preparatory language course—is needed.
For those applying for a residence permit, financial coverage can also be demonstrated through other means in addition to funds in an Albanian bank account, such as donations, scholarships, a valid employment contract, or a job offer. The total value must not be less than 300,000 Lek per person for a one-year period.
Among the new measures is also the obligation for educational institutions and universities to communicate, in written or electronic form, with the authorities. They must send periodic reports every six months or upon request from border and migration authorities regarding the participation of foreign students in educational programs. Immediate notification is required in cases where institutions become aware of information that could lead to the cancellation of a visa. If there are issues with foreign students, or if their studies are temporarily or permanently interrupted, the information must be immediately reported to the local border and migration authorities.
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