To study at any of Albania's universities, international students must obtain an Albanian student visa, depending on their country of origin. A study visa to Albania is issued only by the Albanian Immigration Department.

You should apply at least three months before the start date of the course to avoid any delays, and then apply to the Immigration Department through your regional consulate.

Eligibility for a visa 

An applicant must meet the following criteria:

• An acceptance letter must be provided confirming that the entrant has been offered a full-time place at the institution.
• Applicants must be able to demonstrate evidence of sufficient funds to reside in the country.
• Confirmation must be provided that the course fee has been paid in full.
• Private health insurance must be provided and documentary evidence provided.
• The candidate's intention to return to his country after the end of the period of study should be obvious.

International students must apply for a type D visa or a long-stay visa. Schengen visa holders and those who have a residence permit in the United States or the United Kingdom are not required to apply for a visa. 

However, they will need to obtain it, as this is a requirement for a residence permit, which international students must also obtain upon arrival in Albania. 

Documents required to obtain an Albanian student visa:

• The visa application form completed by the applicant is available online free of charge at https://e-visa.al/apply 
• Photograph of the applicant measuring 47 mm x 36 mm
• Photocopy of a valid travel document
• Application in accordance with the provisions of the law, if the consent of one of the parents or legal guardian is expressed in accordance with applicable law for the trip of a minor.
• Invitation signed by the host.
• Document certifying registration / admission to an educational institution in Albania.
• Financial evidence confirming the coverage of living and studying expenses.
• Certificate confirming knowledge of the language in which the visa applicant will study. Proof of language proficiency can also be verified by interviewing the person in charge of consular affairs at the embassy or consulate.
• Document confirming residence in the territory of the Republic of Albania.
• A document confirming the legal status of the inviting person.

Residence permit for more than 12 months, issued from the country of residence, valid for at least 3 months longer than the validity of the required visa.

Stages of applying for a student visa in Albania:

1. Fill in all required documents. 

2. Apply online ( https://e-visa.al/ ). 

3. Wait for the consulate to verify your application. 

4. Pay the required fees. 

5. Wait for a message from the consul. 

6. Apply to the Albanian Embassy to apply for a visa in person. 

7. Wait for the visa (usually the embassy issues a student visa to Albania 15 days after the date of personal appearance). 

8. Flight to Albania. 

9. Apply for a residence permit.

Can a student combine study and work in Albania?

The Albanian government does not compromise on student tuition, because as a student, you do not have a work visa permit.

After school, students can work with a work permit, but during their studies, students must focus on their studies.

Is it possible to get a scholarship to study in Albania?

Yes, there is such a possibility. Students wishing to study in Albania have the opportunity to receive scholarships, ranging from federal funding to private initiatives in colleges and universities.