Albania

About the country

Serbia is situated at the intersection of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa in Southeast Europe (SEE). Several different-sized developing markets in this area have economic growth plans that centre on bringing their legal systems, healthcare and educational frameworks, infrastructures, and security and defence systems up to European standards.

With 60 million people and a GDP of around $500 billion, Serbia, together with Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Hungary, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Slovenia, represents a market the size of Texas. 

Despite the comparatively small size, Serbia's developing economy offers substantial prospects for exports and investments across various industries, including infrastructure, ICT, healthcare, agriculture, energy, and environmental technology.

The Western Balkans' most significant and most developed economy, Serbia's role as a regional hub and launching pad for businesses to enter the bigger regional market. 

Serbia's economy is an upper-middle-class service economy that runs on free market principles. Serbia's most vital economic sectors are energy, industry (particularly in the automotive and industrial industries), mining, and agriculture.

The primary commercial partners of Serbia are Germany, Italy, Russia, China, and the neighbouring Balkan nations. Trade accounts for a significant portion of Serbia's economic output. The nation's top exports are automobiles, base metals, furniture, food processing equipment, chemicals, sugar, clothing, tyres, and medicines.

With an emphasis on infrastructure, investments, trade liberalisation, and procurements, neighbouring Balkan nations are engaged in Serbia. Serbia also participates in China's Belt & Road Initiative and is the fourth-largest receiver of Chinese investment in Europe, mainly in greenfield projects. Around $4 billion has been invested into Serbia by American companies, who are still actively involved in the country's economy. Specific sectors of the Serbian economy continue to be very price-sensitive. However, expanding corporate and government prosperity offers a window to afford premium Western brands, modernise, and concentrate on investments with the highest returns. Public procurement, bureaucratic complexity, corruption, and ineffective commercial courts remain significant obstacles.

Where are the available jobs?

1. Tourism and Hospitality: Albania's beautiful coastline, historical sites, and natural landscapes attract tourists, creating employment opportunities in hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tour agencies.
2. Information Technology (IT): The IT sector in Albania is increasing, offering job opportunities in software development, web design, IT consulting, and digital marketing.
3. Finance and Banking: Banks, financial institutions, and accounting firms require professionals in banking operations, financial analysis, auditing, and taxation.
4. Education: Schools, colleges, and universities in Albania often have vacancies for teachers, administrators, and support staff.
5. Manufacturing and Industry: Albania has a developing manufacturing sector, with job opportunities in automotive, textiles, food processing, and electronics.
6. Energy and Infrastructure: The energy and construction sectors in Albania offer positions in engineering, project management, renewable energy, and infrastructure development.
7. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: Hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies require medical professionals, nurses, pharmacists, and healthcare administrators.
8. Sales and Marketing: Various companies in Albania hire sales representatives, marketing managers, and customer service professionals to promote and sell their products and services.
9. Agriculture: Agriculture plays a significant role in Albania's economy. Job opportunities can be found in farming, agribusiness, food production, and agricultural research.
10. Telecommunications: With the growth of mobile and internet services, telecommunication companies often have openings in network management, customer support, and technical roles.

Please remember to conduct your research, explore online job portals, and use local resources like employment agencies and career centres to find the most recent job opportunities in Albania.

Short overview of the labour market:

The labour market in Albania has undergone significant changes since it transitioned from a centrally planned economy to a market-oriented system in the early 1990s. Here's a short overview of the labour market in Albania:

1. Employment Rate: Albania has made progress in reducing unemployment over the years but still faces challenges. The official unemployment rate has varied; from my knowledge, the cutoff in September 2021 was around 11.6%. However, it's important to note that this figure can fluctuate, and the current employment situation may differ.
2. Informal Economy: The informal economy remains a significant part of Albania's labour market. Informal employment, characterised by jobs without formal contracts and social security coverage, is prevalent, particularly in rural areas and small businesses.
3. Emigration: Albania has experienced significant emigration in recent decades, with many individuals seeking job opportunities abroad. The outflow of skilled workers has impacted the labour market, including shortages in specific sectors.
4. Skills Mismatch: There often needs to be more connection between the skills possessed by job seekers and the skills demanded by employers. This skills mismatch can hinder the efficient functioning of the labour market and contribute to unemployment or underemployment.
5. Public Sector: The public sector traditionally provided significant employment in Albania. However, over the years, efforts have been made to reduce the size of the public administration and promote private sector growth.
6. Foreign Direct Investment: Foreign direct investment (FDI) has created job opportunities in energy, manufacturing, and services sectors. FDI inflows have contributed to economic growth and job creation in certain regions.
7. Youth Unemployment: Youth unemployment is a challenge in Albania, with young people facing difficulty finding suitable employment opportunities. This issue has led to a brain drain, with many educated young professionals seeking better prospects abroad.
8. Wage Levels: Wages in Albania can vary significantly depending on the sector, location, and qualifications. Generally, wages are lower compared to Western European countries, but the cost of living in Albania is also lower.

It's important to note that the labour market is dynamic and subject to change. It would be best to refer to official government sources, reports, and local employment agencies for the most up-to-date and detailed information on Albania's current labour market conditions.

Serbia Visas, Work Permits and Migration

Would you be thinking of expanding your business into Serbia? In that case, companies can take advantage of the growing economy with plenty of opportunities, challenges, and advantages of a developing country. However, one of the areas where you can avoid cutting corners is work permits, visas, and residency. There are strict border controls, so avoid fines, sanctions, or even having your staff deported through lacking knowledge of the rules.

Serbia has many bilateral agreements with other nations. Around 96 countries’ citizens can enter without a visa. When Serbia becomes a member of the European Union – planned for 2025 – its members’ citizens will have the right to ‘free movement’ to visit, live and work in Serbia with just their national ID or passport. Until then, expatriates wanting to work in Serbia need a work permit and temporary residence permit.

Serbia is also a member of the mini-Schengen agreement – the Open Balkan as it is known. By 2023 Albania, Serbia and Macedonia are looking to open their borders for business and travel.

Types of Work Permits in Albania

The first step in bringing employees to Albania is understanding who needs a work permit. Citizens of the European Union (EU) and Schengen countries have the same employment rights as Albanian citizens. However, some legislation may require Albanian citizenship for certain positions. US citizens can also stay in Albania for at least a year without a residence permit.

Anyone not Albanian wanting to work in the country for more than three months must apply for a work permit. Your employees have to complete their work permit requests before starting a job. It typically takes up to 30 days to get approval or denial after submitting the documentation. Some work permits have time restrictions, but the overall validity period of the permit depends on the type.

There are four main Albanian work permit categories:

• Type A: Permits for economic activities for both employers and employees
• Type B: Independent economic activity permits
• Type C: Permits for special occasions
• Type D: Permanent work permits for eligible foreigners

All foreigners also need a visa to enter Albania and a residence permit.

Requirements to acquire Albania work permit

1. Job Offer: Typically, you must have a confirmed job offer from an Albanian employer before applying for a work permit. The employer must demonstrate that no suitable local candidates are available.
2. Employer Sponsorship: Your employer will play a crucial role in the application process. They must initiate your work permit application and provide relevant documentation and support.
3. Work Permit Application: You must submit a work permit application to the Albanian authorities. This usually involves completing an application form and providing supporting documents such as a valid passport, employment contract, educational qualifications, and any other documents required by the relevant authorities.
4. Work Visa: Once the work permit is approved, you must apply for a work visa at an Albanian embassy or consulate in your home country. The visa will allow you to enter Albania for employment.
5. Medical Examination and Insurance: Some work permit applications may require a medical examination to ensure you meet health requirements. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of health insurance coverage during your stay in Albania.
6. Fees: There are usually fees associated with work permit applications and visa processing. The authorities will determine the specific fees and payment methods, which may vary based on your circumstances.

It's important to note that the Albanian government periodically updates its immigration and work permit regulations, so it's essential to refer to the official government sources, such as the Albanian Ministry of Internal Affairs or the Albanian embassy/consulate in your home country, for the most accurate and current information regarding work permit requirements and procedures in Albania.

Benefits of a work permit 

Obtaining a work permit can offer several benefits to individuals seeking employment in a foreign country like Albania. Here are some potential benefits of having a work permit:

1. Legal Authorization: A work permit provides legal authorisation to work in Albania. It ensures that you comply with the country's immigration and labour laws, giving you the peace of mind of working legally and avoiding any legal consequences or penalties associated with unauthorised employment.
2. Employment Opportunities: With a valid work permit, you can access a broader range of employment opportunities in Albania. Many employers require their employees to have the necessary work permits to ensure compliance with local regulations. A work permit can enhance your chances of securing desirable positions and advancing your career.
3. Job Security: A work permit can provide job security as it establishes your legal right to work and protects you from potential employer exploitation. It ensures that you are entitled to the rights and protections granted by the host country's labour laws, such as minimum wage, working hours, leave entitlements, and workplace safety standards.
4. Social Benefits: In some cases, having a work permit may grant you access to certain social benefits and entitlements provided by the host country. These benefits could include healthcare coverage, social security benefits, retirement plans, and unemployment benefits, depending on the specific regulations and policies of the country.
5. Long-Term Residency: In some situations, a work permit can be a pathway to long-term residency or citizenship in the host country. Some countries offer work permit holders the opportunity to apply for permanent residency or provide a streamlined process for obtaining residency status after a certain period of lawful employment.
6. Cultural Integration: Working legally in a foreign country through a work permit allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture, experience the local lifestyle, and develop a deeper understanding of the host country's customs and traditions. It provides an opportunity for personal and professional growth and expands your global network.

It's important to note that the specific benefits of a work permit may vary depending on the country and its regulations. You'll need to consult the relevant authorities or seek professional advice to understand the benefits of obtaining a work permit in Albania or any other country you'd like to work in.

About AtoZ Serwis Plus

AtoZ Serwis Plus is a reputable and well-known B2C immigration agency providing specialised immigration services since 2009. With company registration offices in Poland, Portugal, Malta, Germany, and Romania and partner offices in various countries worldwide, they offer individualised immigration services to clients globally.

Supported by Polish attorneys and with company registration numbers Regon: 382604058, NIP: 5252780856, KRS: 0000770916, AtoZ Serwis Plus Sp. z o.o. is a Polish Overseas Career Consultant and is considered one of the largest B2C immigration firms in Europe. They work closely with regulated and licensed immigration lawyers in their offices in Poland and Portugal.

AtoZ Serwis Plus has extensive experience managing international recruitment projects and specialises in providing staffing services. They assist individuals from countries such as Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and others in finding employment opportunities in Serbia, Croatia, Romania, Poland, Malta, Portugal, Germany, and other European countries.

Their services cater to individuals seeking professional growth and those looking to relocate permanently to Europe. AtoZ Serwis Plus charges reasonable fees for its services and offers flexible payment options.

Overall, AtoZ Serwis Plus aims to provide high-value immigration services, leveraging their expertise, international network, and partnerships to assist clients in achieving their career goals abroad.

How can AtoZ Serwis Plus assist you?

AtoZ Serwis Plus will provide the services listed below to get an Albania work visa:

• Counseling: Get AtoZ Serwis Plus’ free counselling services.
• Job services: Avail of AtoZ Serwis Plus’  job search services to find jobs in Albania
• Reviewing requirements: AtoZ Serwis Plus reviews all your requirements for an Albania visa
• Application process: We also help in completing your application process
• Requirements checklist: AtoZ Serwis Plus also helps you in arranging the requirements for an Albania work visa
• Complete visa application support
• Assistance with collecting supporting documentation one overseas
• Visa Interview Preparation – if required
• Updates & Follow-up with the Consulate

Willing to work in Albania? Talk to AtoZ Serwis Plus, Europe’s no. 1 overseas immigration consultant.

Would you like some advice? So that you know, the information I've included here is for you to review. You'll always need to consult with your legal and tax advisor(s) and follow their guidance. AtoZ Serwis Plus cannot assist with legal or tax matters. The information presented is not specific to any particular company or workforce nor reflects how AtoZ Serwis Plus products are distributed in any jurisdiction. Instead, it is general. AtoZ Serwis Plus makes no representations or warranties regarding this information's accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. It shall not be liable for any losses from using or relying on it. I think it is your responsibility to exercise caution when using this information.

Disclaimer: atozserwisplus.Pl is a FREE visa database and marketplace for immigration experts. This page's content does not provide legal advice. Before applying, kindly consult an expert.