Albania
Summary
COVID-19Opposition entryparties restrictionsare planning to hold a large demonstration in front of the Office of the Prime Minister, on Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit, from 16:00hrs on 12 November. This may cause traffic diversions and other disruption. Demonstrations could occur elsewhere. Subsequent large scale demonstrations are also possible, and may take place outside the capital city. You should check local media for Albaniathe latest information, remain vigilant and avoid any demonstrations or large-scale gatherings.
Before you travel, check[check the ‘Entry requirements’ sectionsection] (/foreign-travel-advice/albania/entry-requirements#entry-rules-in-response-to-coronavirus-covid-19) for Albania’s current entry restrictions and requirements. Due Theseto COVID-19, these may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
Travelling from and returning to the UK
Check what you must do to travel abroad and return to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
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The British Embassy continue to carry out essential work including providing 24/7 consular assistance and support to British nationals in Albania. However, there is no access to the Embassy building for visitors at this time.
Over 120,000 British nationals visit Albania every year. Most visits are trouble-free.
You should avoid any political rallies or demonstrations and follow the advice of the local authorities as there is always a possibility they could turn violent.
From December to February severe weather may cause flooding, particularly in northern Albania. See Natural disasters
Public security is generally good, particularly in Tirana. Crime and violence does occur in some areas, but is not typically targeted at foreigners. Gun ownership is widespread. See Crime
When visiting hill towns on the northern border with Kosovo, you should exercise caution and heed warning signs about unexploded landmines and other unexploded ordnance. See Landmines
Terrorist attacks in Albania can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism
High levels of air pollution can occur in Albania. See Health
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.
Update history
2025-06-04 16:58
Updated information on the risks of being involved with illegal drugs, including cannabis. This includes risk of arrest if you are found carrying drugs when transiting through the airport (‘Safety and security’ page).
2025-06-04 15:00
Updated information on the risks of being involved with illegal drugs, including cannabis. This includes risk of arrest if you are found carrying drugs when transiting through the airport (‘Safety and security’ page).
2024-08-13 14:25
Information on wildfires (‘Safety and security’ page).
2024-05-16 14:24
This travel advice was reviewed for style and accuracy.
2023-06-22 10:20
Information about the global terrorism risks to British nationals abroad on all FCDO travel advice pages.
2023-02-11 10:30
Factual update about planned demonstrations in early 2023. (See ‘Summary’)
2022-11-11 17:39
Factual update about planned opposition demonstration on 12 November.
2022-07-25 11:11
Removal of information on the Free Iran Summit (‘Summary’ and ‘Safety and security’ pages)
2022-07-22 14:23
New information added on a warning from the US embassy in Albania to US Citizens to avoid the Free Iran Summit being held near Durres, Albania on 23 and 24 July. (‘Summary’ and ‘Safety and security’ pages)
2022-05-31 12:28
Removal of old information on the UEFA Europa Conference League Final match on 25 May (‘Summary’ page).
2022-05-25 15:44
Updated information on the UEFA Europe Conference League Final match between Roma (Italy) and Feyenoord (the Netherlands) in Tirana on 25 May at 9pm local time (‘Summary’ page).
2022-05-06 11:24
Updated information on the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, including curfew and the mask mandate (‘Coronavirus’ page). Update on the lifting of COVID-19 related entry requirements (‘Entry requirements’ page).