How to Open a Business in Albania: Step-by-Step Guide 2025
Albania is one of the most business-friendly countries in the Balkans. Company registration takes as little as 1 day online, corporate tax is just 15%.
Albania ranks among the easiest places in Europe to start a company. Registration is fully online via the National Business Center (QKB), takes 24 hours, and costs €1 in state fees.
Choose your legal form
SHPK (LLC) is the standard choice for SMEs: 1+ shareholder, minimum capital 100 LEK (~€1), limited liability. SHA (joint-stock) is used only for larger ventures with a 3.5M LEK minimum capital.
Step 1 — Reserve the name
Check name availability on QKB. Reservation is free and instant.
Step 2 — Prepare the statute
A simple notarized statute defines shareholders, capital, registered address, and the administrator. Templates are available; a lawyer can prepare it for €100–€200.
Step 3 — Register at QKB
Submit the statute, founders' IDs, and registered address online. You receive your NIPT (tax ID + commercial registry number) within 24 hours. The same registration covers VAT, social security, and labour.
Step 4 — Open a bank account
Major banks: Credins, BKT, Raiffeisen, Intesa Sanpaolo. Required: NIPT, statute, administrator passport, proof of registered address. Minimum deposit usually €100–€500.
Tax regime
Corporate income tax: 15% (companies with revenue under 14M LEK pay 0% until certain thresholds). VAT: 20% standard, 6% for tourism. Dividend tax: 8%. Social contributions: ~16.7% employer + 11.2% employee on gross salary.
Foreign ownership and repatriation
100% foreign ownership is allowed in nearly every sector. There are no restrictions on profit repatriation. Albania has signed double taxation treaties with 40+ countries.