Travel visa renewal in Albania
How to renew or extend a travel visa — how it works anywhere
Renewing or extending an Albanian travel visa involves filing an application with local migration authorities while the current visa is still valid. Applicants must demonstrate a continued legal purpose for their stay and sufficient financial means.
It is standard practice to begin the extension process at least 30 days before the current visa expires. This allows sufficient time to secure an appointment, as processing times can fluctuate based on the specific local police directorate's current volume of applications.
Start 30 days ahead
Early submission prevents accidental overstaying, which can lead to fines or future travel restrictions.
Most visa applications ask for proof of medical cover → SafetyWing
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The process
- 1Verify the specific extension requirements for the visa category at the nearest local police directorate.
- 2Compile all necessary supporting documentation, including proof of accommodation and financial status.
- 3Submit the application in person at the relevant migration office before the current visa expires.
- 4Pay the required administrative fees at a designated bank or payment center.
- 5Retain the application receipt and collect the endorsed document once processed by the authorities.
What to bring
- Valid passport
- Completed application form provided by the migration office
- Proof of legal stay in Albania
- Proof of financial resources (e.g., bank statements)
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental contract or invitation letter)
- Evidence of the reason for the extension request
Who handles it
Policia e Shtetit (State Police), Departamenti për Kufirin dhe Migracionin (Department for Border and Migration)
Fees for visa extensions are set by the Albanian government and are subject to change; applicants should confirm the current amount in LEK directly at the local migration office.
What commonly goes wrong
- Applying after the expiration of the current visa can result in penalties or mandatory departure.
- Incomplete documentation is the most common cause for application rejection.
- Processing times vary by city and individual case complexity, so allow for potential administrative delays.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Don't rely on remembering
Renewals here take about 30 days to start. Add this document and Duratum will tell you when that window opens.