Starting a Business - Albania

100% foreign ownership is permitted in virtually all sectors. Exceptions apply to domestic and international air passenger transport (49% cap for non-Common European Aviation Area investors) and television broadcasting (40% single-entity cap). Foreign individuals and foreign-incorporated companies may not purchase agricultural land but may lease it for up to 99 years.

There is no substantive minimum capital requirement for a limited liability company (Shoqëri me Përgjegjësi të Kufizuar, Sh.p.k.); the statutory minimum share capital is only ALL 100 (approximately €1). Joint-stock companies (Sh.a.) face higher capital thresholds.

All registration is conducted online via the e-Albania government portal. The National Business Center (QKB) functions as a one-stop shop: a single application triggers simultaneous registration with the national tax authority (NIPT issuance), municipal tax, health and social security, and the Labour Inspectorate. No separate visits to multiple agencies are required.

Applications submitted through e-Albania are typically reviewed and approved within 48 hours; the certificate of registration is issued within 24 hours of approval. End-to-end incorporation (including document preparation and notarisation) generally takes 1–5 business days.

Law No. 7764 guarantees foreign investors the same legal rights as Albanian nationals, including full repatriation of profits and invested capital. The US–Albania Bilateral Investment Treaty (in force 1998) further extends national treatment and MFN protections to US investors.

Foreigners may establish a sole proprietorship, limited liability company (Sh.p.k.), joint-stock company (Sh.a.), branch of a foreign company, or a representative office. The Sh.p.k. (LLC equivalent) is the most common vehicle for foreign investors due to its minimal capital and simplified governance rules.