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

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For citizens of the Kingdom of Thailand, traveling from the "Land of Smiles" to the rugged beauty of the Balkan Peninsula is an increasingly popular route for 2026. Whether you are seeking the historic charm of Berat or the crystal-clear waters of the Albanian Riviera, entry into the Republic of Albania is managed through a Digital Pre-Clearance system (e-Visa).

There is no "Visa on Arrival" facility for Thai passport holders. Whether you are departing from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK)—typically connecting via Istanbul, Dubai, or Doha—airlines will strictly verify your travel authorization. Without a printed, valid e-Visa or a qualifying exemption, you will be denied boarding at the check-in counter.

This guide is specifically tailored for Thai applicants. It addresses the specific realities of 2026: the use of THB-based financial proofs, the mandatory translation of Thai script documents, and the strategic transit hubs used for Southeast Asian departures.

Is a Visa Mandatory for Thai Nationals?

Yes.All holders of a standard Thai passport must obtain a C-Type e-Visa prior to travel. Albania does not currently grant automatic year-round visa-free entry to citizens of Thailand.

The "Used Visa" Exemption (US/UK/Schengen)

You may be EXEMPT from the Albanian e-Visa application if you hold a valid, multiple-entry visa for certain Western jurisdictions. You do not need to apply for this e-Visa if:

1. You possess a valid, multiple-entry Schengen Visa.

2. You possess a valid, multiple-entry US Visa (B1/B2).

3. You possess a valid, multiple-entry UK Visa.

The Prior Use Rule: The Western visa must have been previously used at least once to enter the issuing country. For example, if you have a US visa and have already visited Los Angeles, you can enter Albania visa-free. If the visa is brand new and unused, you must apply for the Albanian e-Visa.

The C-Type Short-Stay Visa Defined

The C-Type Visa is a short-term entry permit.

• Purpose: Tourism, business meetings, or visiting family.

• Duration: Maximum stay of 90 days within a rolling 180-day period.

• Restriction: It does not permit employment or long-term residency in Albania.

Thailand-Specific Documentation Checklist

Thai applicants must provide robust evidence of financial stability and "intent to return" to satisfy the vetting process.

✅ Passport ValidityYour passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended travel date. Ensure it is a biometric Thai passport.

✅ Financial Proof (THB vs. EUR)

• The Document: Submit a Bank Statement for the last 6 months.

• Accepted Banks: Statements from Kasikornbank (KBank), Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), Bangkok Bank, or Krungthai Bank are standard.

• Format: Most Thai banks can issue statements in English through their mobile apps or at branches. Use the English version to avoid translation costs.

• Balance: Ensure the closing balance covers approximately €50 (approx. 1,900 THB) per day of stay.

✅ Translation Requirements (Thai to English)Official documents in Thailand are issued in Thai script. Albania requires English translations.

• Mandatory Translations: Any document not in English (e.g., Marriage Certificate, House Registration/Tabien Baan, or specialized business licenses) must be translated into English.

• Certification: Translations should be performed by a Certified Translation Office in Bangkok or recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

✅ Employment & Professional Ties

• Employees: An employment certificate in English on company letterhead stating your position, salary, and authorized leave.

• Business Owners: A copy of your DBD (Department of Business Development) registration, translated into English.

• Freelancers: Proof of contracts or work history with international clients.

✅ Travel InsuranceA mandatory policy covering medical repatriation (min. €30,000). Insurers like MSIG, AXA Thailand, or Allianz Ayudhya provide valid certificates.

Step-by-Step Application Workflow

The process is entirely digital via the official portal.

Step 1: Account Creation

Visit the Albania e-Visa Portal. Register with your personal email.

Step 2: Form Accuracy

Select "Visa Type C". Enter your name exactly as it appears in the Latin script section of your Thai passport.

Step 3: Document Uploads

Upload high-quality PDF scans. Ensure your passport photo has a plain white background (47 mm x 36 mm).

Step 4: Payment (Thai Bank Cards)

The government fees for 2026 are:

• Tourist Visa: €60

• Business Visa: €100

• Cards: Visa or Mastercards from KBank, SCB, or Bangkok Bank work well.

• OTP: Ensure your Thai mobile number is active to receive the OTP (One-Time Password) for the transaction.

• Currency: The charge will be in Euros. Your bank handles the THB to EUR conversion.

Processing Expectations

• Standard Timeline: 9-15 Business Days.

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

• Thailand Specifics: Expect processing times of 15 to 25 business days.

• Recommendation: Apply at least 6 weeks before your flight.

Transit & Border Protocols

Choosing the right connection is key for Thai passport holders.

Documents for Border Control:

1. Printed e-Visa: Mandatory.

2. Return Ticket: Confirmed flight back to Thailand.

3. Accommodation: Valid hotel booking.

4. Cash: Carry Euros (€) or USD ($). Thai Baht cannot be exchanged in Albania.

Critical Transit Warning:

• Via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines): THE BEST ROUTE. Thai citizens enjoy Visa-Free entry to Turkey. This makes Istanbul (IST) the most seamless hub if there are delays.

• Via Dubai/Doha (Emirates/Qatar): Excellent airside transit. No transit visa needed for short layovers.

• Via Europe: WARNING. Do not transit through the Schengen area (e.g., Frankfurt, Vienna) unless you hold a valid Schengen Transit Visa. Thai citizens are generally required to have a transit visa for many EU hubs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I submit my "Tabien Baan" (House Registration)?

Yes, it is strong proof of ties to Thailand, but it must be translated into English and notarized.

Can I pay with my K-Plus or SCB EASY app directly?

No. You must use the Debit/Credit card details on the visa portal's payment page.

Is the e-Visa valid for the whole Balkans?

No. The Albanian e-Visa is valid only for Albania. You need separate visas for most neighbors like Serbia or Montenegro.