Albania C-Type e-Visa Application Guide for Afghanistan Citizens (2026)

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Navigating the immigration requirements for the Republic of Albania can be a complex process, particularly for holders of passports issued by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Unlike travelers from visa-exempt jurisdictions, Afghan citizens are subject to a rigorous Digital Pre-Clearance protocol.

It is crucial to understand that Albania does not offer a Visa on Arrival for Afghan nationals under any circumstances. Whether you are flying from Kabul via Dubai, Istanbul, or Doha, you will be denied boarding without a valid, printed Albania e-Visa in your possession.

This guide serves as a complete, authoritative manual for Afghanistan citizens applying for the Albania C-Type (Short-Stay) e-Visa. It moves beyond generic advice to address the specific logistical hurdles faced by applicants in Kabul, Herat, and Mazar-i-Sharif—specifically focusing on document legalization (Dari/Pashto translations), proving financial solvency in Afghani (AFN), and overcoming international banking blocks.

See also: Albania e-Visa Exemptions Guide

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Do Afghanistan Citizens Need a Visa for Albania?

Yes, absolutely.Every traveler holding an ordinary passport issued by Afghanistan—regardless of whether it is a legacy Republic passport (still valid) or a newer issue—must obtain a mandatory e-Visa prior to travel. The Albanian Border and Migration Directorate enforces strict entry controls, and airlines operating flights to Tirana (TIA) verify this documentation rigorously at the check-in counter.

Are There Any Exemptions?

While most Afghan citizens require a visa, there is a specific exemption clause. You may bypass the Albania e-Visa online application process only if you meet all of the following criteria:

1. You hold a valid, multiple-entry visa issued by the United States (B1/B2), United Kingdom, or a Schengen Member State.

2. Critical Condition: This visa must have been previously used to enter the issuing country at least once. An unused visa does not grant exemption for Albania.

3. Or, you hold a valid Residence Permit issued by a Schengen country, US, or UK.

If you do not strictly meet these conditions, you must proceed with the standard C-Type visa application detailed below.

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Understanding the C-Type Short-Stay Visa

The C-Type Visa is a short-term entry authorization. It is strictly for temporary visits and does not permit the holder to seek employment, enroll in long-term university programs, or apply for residency while in Albania.

• Permitted Activities: Tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings, conferences, or medical treatment.

• The "90/180" Rule: This visa allows you to stay in Albania for a maximum of 90 days within any rolling 180-day period.

• Validity vs. Duration: Do not confuse these. The validity is the window during which you can enter (e.g., 6 months), while the duration is how many days you can actually stay (e.g., 15 days, 30 days).

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Critical Application Requirements (Detailed Checklist)

Due to the high volume of applications and security profiling, submissions from Afghanistan undergo enhanced scrutiny. A generic application will likely result in a Visa Processing Delay or refusal.

Use this checklist to ensure your dossier meets the specific standards for 2026:

✅ Passport Validity & ConditionYour passport must differ from the expiration date by at least 3 months at the time of intended departure. However, given the longer processing times for Afghan nationals, we strongly recommend 6 months of validity.

• Note: The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years and contain at least two blank pages.

✅ Proof of Financial Solvency (The AFN/USD Challenge)This is the most common reason for refusal. You must prove you can support yourself (approx. €50 per day) without working.

• Accepted Documents: Official bank statements from recognized institutions (e.g., Aziz Bank, Afghanistan International Bank - AIB, Kabul Bank) covering the last 12 months.

• Currency Conversion: While your account is likely held in Afghani (AFN), the statement must explicitly show the final balance equivalent in USD or EUR. If your bank cannot do this, you must attach a formal conversion slip from the bank.

• Strict Warning: Screenshots from mobile banking apps or unverified crypto portfolios are not accepted and will lead to immediate rejection.

✅ Document Translation (Tazkira & Others)Albanian authorities do not accept documents in Dari or Pashto.

• Requirement: Your National ID (Tazkira), Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, and Police Clearance Certificate must be legally translated into English or Albanian.

• Notarization: These translations must be notarized. A simple translation without a legal stamp is insufficient.

✅ Proof of AccommodationYou must upload a confirmed hotel booking for your entire stay. If staying with a host, you need a Notarized Invitation Letter signed by the host in Albania, including their ID copy and a statement of financial responsibility.

✅ Travel Health InsuranceA mandatory policy covering the entire duration of your stay. It must be valid for Albania (or "Europe/Schengen") and cover at least €30,000 in medical expenses and repatriation.

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Step-by-Step Application Workflow

The entire process is digital. There is no need to visit an Albanian Embassy in neighboring countries (like Pakistan or Turkey) unless you are explicitly summoned for an interview.

Step 1: Secure Digital Registration

Navigate to the official Apply for Albania e-Visa portal. Register using a secure, personal email address. Avoid using travel agency emails, as the visa PDF will be sent here directly.

Step 2: Accurate Form Completion

Select "Visa Type C" and your specific purpose (e.g., "Tourism").

• Data Entry Warning: Enter your details exactly as they appear in the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) at the bottom of your passport biodata page. Discrepancies in name spelling (e.g., "Mohammad" vs "Mohd") are a primary cause of technical rejection.

Step 3: Document Upload Protocols

All documents must be scanned in high-quality PDF format (max 5MB per file).

• Photo Spec: The photograph must be a recent, color JPG file, white background, size 4x5cm (pixel resolution approx 600x600). Do not scan a physical photo; use a digital file.

Step 4: Visa Fees & Payment Solutions

You must pay the non-refundable government processing fee to finalize your application. The 2026 fee structure is:

• C-Type Visa for Tourism: €60

• C-Type Visa for Business: €100

• C-Type Visa for Medical/Other: €60

Overcoming Banking Restrictions in Afghanistan

We understand that many Afghan applicants face significant hurdles because domestic Debit/Credit cards (even those branded Visa/Mastercard) are often blocked from international online transactions due to banking sanctions or restrictions.

How to Pay Successfully:

1. Use a Foreign Card: You are legally permitted to use a card belonging to a relative or friend residing abroad (e.g., in Europe, USA, UAE). The name on the payment card does not need to match the applicant's name.

2. Third-Party Services: If you do not have foreign contacts, you may need to utilize secure third-party visa agencies that can process the payment on your behalf.

• See more on resolving Albania e-Visa Payment Issues.

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Processing Timelines for Afghanistan Citizens

It is vital to manage expectations regarding timelines. While the statutory processing time is "15 business days," applications from Afghanistan typically undergo extended security vetting by Albanian intelligence agencies.

• Standard Timeline: 9-15 Business Days.

• Express Timeline: 24 Business Hours. ( 3 Business Day )

• Real-World Timeline (Afghanistan): 30 - 60 Business Days is common.

• Recommendation: Do not book non-refundable flights until the visa is issued. Submit your application at least 2 months before your intended travel date.

Understanding the "Action Required" Status

If you track your application and see the status "Action Required", do not panic. This means the consular officer has reviewed your file but needs additional clarity—often a clearer bank statement or a more detailed employment letter. You typically have a strict window (5-10 days) to upload the new document. Missing this deadline triggers an automatic refusal.

• Track your status here: Track Application.

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Entry Procedures: What Happens at the Border?

Holding an approved e-Visa allows you to travel, but the final decision on entry rests with the Border Police at Tirana International Airport. Travelers from high-risk migration profiles are often interviewed upon arrival.

Be prepared to present physical copies of:

1. The Printed e-Visa: Digital copies on a phone are often not accepted by border guards.

2. Return Flight Ticket: A confirmed ticket showing your intent to leave Albania.

3. Proof of Subsistence: Cash (EUR/USD) or a valid credit card to prove you can support yourself.

4. Accommodation Address: You must know exactly where you are staying (Hotel name and address).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I apply for a visa on arrival if I have a valid US visa but haven't used it?

No. The exemption strictly requires that the US, UK, or Schengen visa has been previously used to enter that territory. If your US visa is brand new and unused, you must apply for the Albania e-Visa.

What should I do if my bank statement is in Dari/Pashto?

You must request an English version from your bank. If they cannot provide one, you must have the statement translated by a sworn translator and notarized. The currency figures must be clear.

Is the visa fee refundable if my application is rejected?

No. The government fee covers the administrative cost of processing the application. It is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. We strongly advise reviewing Albania e-Visa Refusal Reasons to ensure your application is watertight before paying.

Do I need a transit visa if I am just changing planes in Tirana?

If you remain in the international transit zone of Tirana International Airport and your connecting flight is within 24 hours, you typically do not need a C-Type visa. However, airline policies vary, so verify with your carrier.

Can I extend this visa while in Albania?

C-Type visas are generally not extendable unless there is a Force Majeure (medical emergency, humanitarian crisis). You must leave the country before your authorized days expire to avoid fines and future entry bans.