Looking to start a business in Europe without the bureaucratic headache? Albania might just be your golden ticket. With fast registration, minimal capital requirements, and investor-friendly laws, launching a business here is not only efficient, it’s smart. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a multinational exploring new markets, or a startup founder eyeing the Balkans, Albania offers one of the region’s most accessible entry points.
Let’s walk through how it works and why so many are choosing Albania to launch their next venture.
How Fast Is Business Registration?
 
In most cases, registration with Albania’s National Business Center (NBC) is completed within 1 working day—as long as your documents are complete and correct. Once registered, you receive a Unique Business Registration Number (NUIS), which also functions as your tax ID. All companies must also declare their Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) within 40 days of registration.
Albania provides a variety of legal structures to suit different needs.
 
Here’s a rundown of your choices: Sole Proprietor (Person Fizik, Tregtar), the simplest form. Ideal for freelancers or solo entrepreneurs. No separation between personal and business liability. Limited Liability Company (Sh.p.k.).
The most popular business type in Albania.

 
✅ Start with just ALL 100 (about €1) in capital

✅ Liability is limited to your investment

✅ One or more shareholders allowed
Joint Stock Company (Sh.A.):

   
✅ Designed for larger businesses or those going public.

✅ Capital: ALL 3.5 million (approx. €34,000) without public offering

✅ ALL 10 million (approx. €97,000) with public offering

✅ Choose between single-tier or dual-tier governance
General Partnership:
 
  • Partners have unlimited liability. Often used for professional services;
  • Limited Partnership;
  • A hybrid structure with both general (fully liable) and limited (investment-only) partners. Great for startups and SMEs;
  • Joint Venture
  • Not a company per se, but a contract-based partnership governed by civil law. Used for one-off or project-based collaboration. Foreign Branches and Representative Offices;
  • Foreign Branches and Representative Offices;
  • Foreign companies can set up branches (for profit) or rep offices (non-profit) with equal tax treatment to local firms.
Documents you will need for business registration:
 
  • Application form (signed by your administrator or rep);
  • IDs/passports of shareholders and administrators;
  • Articles of incorporation and company statute;
  • Parent company documents (for foreign-owned businesses), including:
    • Certificate of registration;
    • Certificate of good standing
    • Board decision authorizing the new company
    • Balance sheet from the last fiscal year
  • Power of attorney, if someone is applying on your behalf

All foreign documents must be apostilled and translated.

Registration = Tax Enrollment + UBO
 

One of the biggest advantages? Once you register with the NBC, you’re automatically enrolled for:

  • National and local tax purposes
  • Social and health contributions
  • Online services via e-Albania
  • Just don’t forget to file your UBO information separately!
What About Opening a Bank Account?
   

Easy. After your company is registered, head to the bank of your choice with:

  • NBC registration certificate and extract
  • Articles of association
  • IDs/passports of shareholders and admins
  • Residence permits (for foreign residents)

Banks usually require shareholders owning more than 20% to be present during account opening.

Albania Makes It Easy to Begin
 
If ease of entry, low cost, and quick setup are at the top of your business checklist, Albania ticks all the boxes. Add in a growing economy and access to regional markets, and you’ve got a winning formula for launching and scaling your company.
 
Albania isn’t just an affordable place to do business—it’s a strategic one.