Is Albania in NATO? What That Means for Foreign Investors and Real Estate Buyers

A lot of people are surprised when I tell them Albania is a full member of NATO.  

“Yes,” I say, “since 2009.”  

They usually raise an eyebrow, especially if they’ve only recently discovered our beautiful slice of the world down here in Saranda or Ksamil.  

But honestly, it’s one of the first things I mention when I’m talking to serious buyers looking at beachfront property or seaview apartments here on the Albanian Riviera. Not because it sounds impressive (although it kind of does), but because it speaks to stability . And when you’re investing your money in another country—especially one many people still confuse with places like Armenia or Slovenia—stability matters.  

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Why NATO Membership Actually Matters in Real Estate  

Let’s break it down in real terms.  

NATO is more than just a military alliance. For countries like Albania, it’s a sign of growing political and economic alignment with the West. And for foreign investors? It signals safety, future growth, and better legal protections over time.  

Think about it. If you’re comparing two countries on the Mediterranean where you could buy property—one is part of NATO and the other isn’t—which one gives you more peace of mind?  

Last week, I showed a client a stunning apartment in Ksamil with panoramic sea views and a modern, clean design. We stood on the balcony, and she turned to me and said, “This feels too good to be true. Is it really safe to buy here?”  

I get that question a lot.  

And I told her what I tell all my clients: “We’re not just a hidden gem anymore. Albania is moving fast—and NATO membership is a big part of why foreign investors are finally starting to take us seriously.”  

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A Tangent (Because You Know I Like to Ramble)  

Speaking of Ksamil… if you’ve never been to the little beach cove near the old wooden pier just past Lori Beach, go . Not in July when it’s packed, but early June. I was there a few mornings ago before a showing, and the only other soul around was an old man untangling fishing nets with a cigarette tucked behind his ear. He nodded at me like we’d known each other forever. That’s the kind of Albania I fell in love with years ago.  

Alright—back to business.  

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Foreign Ownership: What You Need to Know  

Here’s where it gets really practical. NATO status doesn’t directly change property laws, but it does boost international trust. Albania allows foreigners to buy real estate freely—especially apartments. Land is a bit more complicated (for non-citizens), but even that’s evolving.  

And honestly? With so many affordable properties available, especially compared to Greece or Italy, a lot of buyers are skipping the bureaucracy of land and going straight for seaview apartments. I can’t blame them.  

For example, I recently listed this 1-bedroom sea view apartment in Saranda . It’s bright, modern, and just a short walk from Rruga Butrinti. The price? You could barely buy a garage in Spain for that.  

And if you’re someone who likes a little luxury, we’ve also got this 2-bedroom apartment with a private pool that’s basically a dream vacation home—and still costs way less than similar properties in Italy or Croatia.  

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The Investment Perspective 

From an investment standpoint, NATO membership tells you this country is not likely to implode or close its doors to foreigners anytime soon. It means infrastructure is getting better (slowly, yes, but still), and it gives international investors more confidence that Albania is playing by international rules. 

I’ve had clients from Germany, the UK, and the US tell me that knowing Albania is part of NATO helped them justify buying here instead of somewhere flashier but riskier. 

I mean, look at what’s happening in other parts of the world. Albania feels like a quiet pocket of calm these days. 

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Okay, But What About Corruption? 

Look, I’m not going to sugarcoat everything. Albania has its challenges. Bureaucracy can be slow. Things don’t always happen on time. You’ll probably need more coffee than usual when dealing with paperwork. 

But here’s the thing—I’d rather deal with slow processes in paradise than fast, stressful ones in a place that doesn’t make my heart sing. And as a local who’s been doing real estate here for years, I’ve got my ways of making things smoother for clients. I know which notaries are reliable, which engineers to trust, and which neighbors will feed you by accident during a showing. 

True story : one time I brought a Dutch couple to see a village house near Borsh. The neighbor saw us poking around and immediately brought out raki, cheese, and figs from her tree. By the time we finished, the buyers forgot we were even working. They just wanted to move in. 

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Albania Is Growing—Fast 

Since joining NATO, we’ve also seen a noticeable uptick in infrastructure development. Roads are improving. The airport in Saranda is on the way. Fiber-optic internet is more widespread than you’d expect. And local businesses are leveling up to meet the needs of an increasingly international crowd. 

These are all things that affect real estate values—even if they don’t show up on the brochures. A Saranda apartment for sale today could double in value in a few years, especially once the airport opens and we get more year-round tourism. 

I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast. And I say that not just as someone who works in real estate—but as someone who lives here, drinks coffee at Demi Beach in the off-season, and watches the sunsets over Corfu like it’s the first time, every time. 

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Quick Tips for Foreign Buyers 

Let’s wrap with a few real tips if you’re thinking of investing here: 

• Hire a local expert. Not just a lawyer—someone who lives and breathes the local market (hi, that’s me). 

• Ask about building permits. Especially for new construction. It’s improving, but still worth double-checking. 

• View properties in person. Photos rarely do justice to the light, layout, or surroundings. 

• Be open to slightly imperfect gems. Some of the best properties need a little love, but the location makes them unbeatable. 

• Explore beyond Saranda center. Ksamil, Borsh, and even the hills above the Riviera have amazing spots. 

Oh—and that tiny taverna near Borsh beach I mentioned? If you’re ever down that way for a viewing, let me take you there. Their grilled octopus is unreal, and the owner still cooks everything herself. 

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Final Thoughts

Yes, Albania is in NATO. But more importantly, Albania is ready. Ready for smart, respectful investors. Ready for expats who want more than overpriced flats and tourist traps. Ready to be seen for what it really is—a place of raw beauty, culture, warmth, and opportunity.

If you’re thinking about dipping your toes into the Albanian property market, I’d love to show you around. Whether it’s a cozy apartment in the heart of Saranda, a luxury beachfront home, or just a dream you’re not sure how to make happen yet—let’s chat.

I’ve helped people from all over the world find their place here. And every time, when they finally get the keys in hand, I see that look—that quiet, happy disbelief.

It’s the best part of the job.