Albanian citizenship by naturalization

Albanian citizenship by naturalization is a process through which foreign individuals can acquire Albanian citizenship. The Albanian government has specific requirements and criteria that applicants must meet in order to be eligible for naturalization.

How to get citizenship by naturalization in Albania

Here are some key points regarding Albanian citizenship by naturalization:

1. Residency requirement. In general, applicants for Albanian citizenship by naturalization must have legally resided in Albania for a continuous period of at least five years. The residency requirement may vary based on certain circumstances, such as marriage to an Albanian citizen or having Albanian ancestry.
2. Age requirement – at least 18 years old.
3. Language proficiency. Applicants are typically required to demonstrate basic knowledge of the Albanian language. This requirement may be assessed through an interview or an Albanian language proficiency test.
4. Good character and conduct. Applicants must have a clean criminal record and have not been involved in actions that might jeopardize Albania’s national security or public order.
5. Financial stability. Applicants must demonstrate that they have the financial resources to sustain themselves and their dependents without becoming a burden on the Albanian state.
6. Renunciation of previous citizenship. In general, applicants for Albanian citizenship by naturalization are required to renounce their previous citizenship(s). However, exceptions may apply for certain cases, such as when renunciation is not possible or would cause significant hardship.
7. Application process. To apply for Albanian citizenship by naturalization, individuals need to submit an application to the Albanian Ministry of Interior or the relevant government authority. The application typically requires various supporting documents, such as identification documents, proof of residency, criminal record certificates, and other documents to demonstrate eligibility.

Documentation and Application

To apply for Albanian citizenship by naturalization, you will need to gather the necessary documentation and submit an application to the Albanian Ministry of Interior or the relevant government authority. Here is a general overview of the documentation and application process:

1. Application form. Obtain the official application form for Albanian citizenship by naturalization.
2. Identification documents.
3. Proof of residency. Provide evidence of your legal residency in Albania for the required period (typically five years).
4. Language proficiency. If required, provide documentation or proof of your proficiency in the Albanian language.
5. Criminal record certificates.
6. Financial documentation. Demonstrate your financial stability and ability to support yourself and any dependents.
7. Renunciation of previous citizenship (if applicable).
8. Additional documents. Marriage certificates, birth certificates, evidence of schooling, medical certificates, and any other documents sought by the authorities are examples of such documents.
9. Submitting the application. Compile all the required documents and submit your completed application along with the supporting documentation to the Albanian Ministry of Interior or the designated government authority. Pay any applicable fees associated with the application process.

Dual Citizenship

Albania allows for dual citizenship, which means that individuals can hold Albanian citizenship alongside the citizenship of another country. If you are a foreign national and want to obtain Albanian citizenship while keeping your present citizenship, you may usually do so without having to renounce your current citizenship.