Albania e-Visa Validity vs. Duration of Stay: The 2026 Rules Explained
You have received your Albania e-Visa PDF. It has dates on it. You have booked your flights. But do you actually know when you must leave the country?
In 2026, one of the most common reasons for fines at the Albanian border is a misunderstanding of two simple terms: "Visa Validity" and "Duration of Stay." Travelers often confuse the two, assuming they can stay for the entire date range printed on the document. This is a dangerous mistake.
At Migra Global Soluciones, we want to ensure your trip ends with happy memories, not a ban on re-entry. Here is the definitive guide to understanding your time limits and the strict "90/180 Rule" enforced by Albanian immigration.
The Big Difference: Validity vs. Duration
When you look at your approved e-Visa, you will see two distinct sets of data. It is crucial to read them correctly.
1. Visa Validity (The Window)
What it says: "Valid From: 01 Jan 2026" to "Valid Until: 31 Dec 2026".
What it means: This is the time window during which you are allowed to enter Albania. You can arrive on January 1st, or you can arrive on December 1st.
The Trap: It does not mean you can stay for the entire year. It simply means the visa is "live" for entry during this period.
2. Duration of Stay (The Clock)
What it says: "Duration of Stay: 90 Days" (or sometimes 30 Days, depending on your nationality).
What it means: This is the maximum number of days you can physically be inside Albania starting from the day you stamp in.
Example: If your visa is valid for 5 years, but your "Duration of Stay" is 90 days, you must leave after 90 days. You cannot stay for 5 years.
The "90/180 Day Rule" Explained
Albania, aligning with EU/Schengen standards, follows the 90/180 rule for most tourist visas.
The Rule: You can stay for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.
How it works: Look at today's date and count back 180 days. Have you been in Albania for more than 90 days in that timeframe? If yes, you must leave.
Resetting the Clock: You cannot simply cross the border to Montenegro or Greece for a "coffee run" and come back the same day to reset your 90 days (Visa Runs). The clock is rolling.
What Happens If I Overstay? (2026 Penalties)
In 2026, Albanian border control uses digital biometric systems. They know exactly when you entered. There is no manual calculation error. If you stay even one day past your authorized duration, you face serious consequences:
1. Heavy Cash Fines
Upon departure at Tirana International Airport (TIA) or land borders, you will be stopped. Fines for overstaying vary based on the number of days but typically start from €500 and can go up significantly. You may be required to pay immediately before being allowed to leave.
2. Deportation & Re-Entry Bans
This is the long-term risk. An "Overstay" stamp on your passport is a red flag.
You may be issued a ban on re-entering Albania for a period ranging from 6 months to 5 years.
Since Albania shares data with European partners, this black mark could potentially affect future Schengen or UK visa applications.
Can I Extend My e-Visa?
Generally, No.The Albania e-Tourist Visa (Type C) is issued for short-term tourism. It is not extendable while you are inside the country.
The Exception: Only in extreme cases of Force Majeure (e.g., severe medical hospitalization preventing travel, verified by a hospital and police) will the immigration authorities consider an extension.
The Standard Procedure: If you want to stay longer, you must leave the country before your visa expires and apply for a new visa (if your 90/180 allowance permits) or apply for a Type D (Long Stay) visa from your home country.
FAQ: Validity & Overstay
Does the arrival day count as Day 1?
Yes. If you land in Tirana at 11:50 PM (23:50), that counts as your first day. Always build a safety buffer into your travel plans.
I have a Multiple Entry visa. Can I stay 90 days each time?
Usually, no. The "Duration of Stay" (e.g., 90 days) is the total cumulative limit within the 180-day period, regardless of how many times you enter and exit. Check your specific visa document carefully.
What if my flight is cancelled and I overstay by 1 day?
If the airline cancels your flight, get an official letter from the airline immediately. Present this to the border police. They may show leniency for a 24-hour delay due to technical reasons, but it is not guaranteed.
Can I convert my Tourist Visa to a Work Visa inside Albania?
No. You cannot switch from a Type C (Tourist) to a Type D (Work/Residence) visa while inside Albania. You must exit the country and apply for the Work Visa at an Albanian Embassy abroad.
Don't risk the fine.Always check the "Duration of Stay" on your e-Visa PDF carefully. If you haven't applied yet, make sure your travel dates align with the visa rules.