What Documents Do You Need to Buy Property in Albania?

(A Local’s Guide from Saranda)  

Let me guess — you’ve seen a few listings along the Albanian Riviera, maybe even stumbled across a gorgeous seaview apartment in Saranda or a white villa tucked into the hills of Borsh , and thought… “Wait, is it really this simple to buy property here?”  

Short answer: yes.  

But also… not always.  

There is a process. And if you’re coming from abroad, it can feel a little confusing at first. But that’s why I’m writing this — to walk you through everything you need, step by step, in plain language. No jargon, no salesy talk — just the kind of advice I’d give a friend over a coffee at Limani.  

First Things First: Yes, Foreigners Can Buy in Albania  

I still get this question every week.  

Yes, if you’re not Albanian, you can legally purchase property here — including apartments , villas , off-plan developments , and commercial spaces . The only limitation is on buying land , but there are solutions for that too (like forming a company). More on that in a bit.  

In fact, last week I showed a lovely Belgian couple a 2-bedroom apartment in Ksamil — brand new, full sea view, just minutes from the beach. When they saw the balcony, they looked at each other and said, “This is it.” That moment is why I love this job.  

So… What Documents Do You Actually Need?  

Here’s the core list, whether you’re buying a finished apartment or something still under construction:  

1. A Valid Passport  

Simple but essential. It’s your primary ID.  

Tip: Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your purchase date, especially if you’re opening a bank account or planning to stay long-term.  

2. Your NUIS Number (aka “Albanian Tax Number”)  

This one surprises most foreign buyers. It’s kind of like a fiscal number — you’ll need it to be registered as the property owner. Don’t worry — it only takes a few hours at the local tax office (DPT), and if you’re buying with us at VivaView, we usually handle it for you.  

3. Purchase Contract (Kontrata e Shitjes)  

This is the legal agreement between you and the seller (usually notarized). If the property is under construction, this might initially be a “Pre-Sale Contract” — still fully binding.  

4. Property Certificate of Ownership (Certifikata e Pronësisë)  

This is the document — the official government-issued proof that the seller owns the property. In Albania, we use a digital cadaster system now (called ASHK). If you’re buying new construction, this certificate might still be in the name of the developer and transferred to you after completion.  

Here’s an example:  

In White Residence Villas , we provide full documentation and certify ownership after the final installment is paid. Everything is done transparently through a public notary.  

Bonus Docs You Might Need  

These aren’t mandatory for everyone, but they often come up — especially with resale or larger transactions:  

• Power of Attorney (if you’re not present in Albania during signing)  

• Bank Transfer Confirmations (some notaries ask for payment proof)  

• Company Registration Certificate (if you’re buying land through a legal entity)  

• Construction Permit + Usage Certificate (for new builds — we always include these at VivaView)  

Notary: The MVP of the Process  

Every property deal in Albania is closed in front of a licensed public notary. They’re like the referee — impartial, legal, and essential.  

The notary will verify all the documents, translate the contract if needed (into your language), and ensure everything is registered correctly.  

They’ll also request your passport , tax number , and a copy of the property certificate .  

Note: There’s usually a 1–2% notary fee, depending on the property price.    

If You’re Buying Off-Plan (Under Construction)  

The documents are slightly different if you’re buying a unit that’s still being built.  

Instead of the full Ownership Certificate, the developer should provide:  

• Construction Permit (Leje Ndërtimi)  

• Architectural Plans (Plani Urbanistik)  

• Land Ownership Certificate  

• Preliminary Sale Agreement (Kontratë Paraprake)  

We’ve done this process dozens of times — for example, our Vila 1+2 project in Borsh follows this exact model: you sign a preliminary contract, pay in tranches as we build, and receive the full Ownership Certificate once the property is finalized and registered in your name.  

And no — you don’t need to speak Albanian. Everything is handled with certified translators and bilingual contracts.  

What About Bank Accounts, Money Transfers, and Legalization?  

Here’s a mini checklist that often comes up:  

• You don’t need an Albanian bank account , but it helps. Most people pay via international transfer directly to the developer’s or seller’s account.  

• All documents signed abroad (like a Power of Attorney) must be Apostilled .  

• Transfers over €10,000 should be declared, but this is standard for real estate transactions.  

Sometimes people get nervous about wire transfers — which is understandable. But if you’re working with a reliable agency (like ours), all funds are tracked, contracts are notarized, and every euro is accounted for. Albania has come a long way in transparency.  

A Quick Side Note on Language & Trust  

I get it — the idea of buying in a foreign country, especially one where the language isn’t your own, can feel daunting. But here’s the thing: Albanians are incredibly hospitable people.  

Even at the local offices, they’ll usually offer you coffee before paperwork.  

And when you’re buying with a local company like VivaView, you’re not just handed keys — you’re walked through the process like family. We’ve had clients from Italy, Poland, Sweden, even Dubai. Some don’t speak a word of Albanian — and still say it was the smoothest purchase they ever made.   

A Tangent, But Worth It… 

Last month, after a long morning showing a German family around Panorama Street in Saranda, we stopped at a tiny taverna behind the old mosque. No sign, just a guy grilling lamb on an open fire. The view was… something else. And they said, “Klajdi, this was the best part of the day.” 

That’s what you’re buying into here. Not just a document or a certificate — but a lifestyle that slows you down in the best way. 

Final Checklist: What You Need 

Let’s recap: 

1. Passport (with validity) 

2. Albanian Tax ID (NUIS) 

3. Notarized Contract (with translator if needed) 

4. Ownership Certificate (or Construction Permit for new builds) 

5. Payment documentation (bank transfers) 

6. Translator + Notary 

That’s it. 

Everything else? We’ll help you sort it out. 

Final Thoughts (From Someone Who’s Been Here a While) 

Buying property in Albania isn’t just about seaviews and sunshine. It’s about finding something that still feels real . 

Saranda, Ksamil, Borsh — they’re growing fast, yes. But they haven’t lost that charm yet. You can still walk down the promenade and bump into neighbors, still buy figs from an old woman who insists you try one for free. You can still find affordable properties with incredible views . 

I truly believe the Albanian Riviera offers the best value on the Mediterranean — and I don’t say that lightly.

If you’re thinking about taking the next step, let’s talk. We’ve got some beautiful listings — from beachfront villas in Borsh to modern apartments in Saranda with panoramic views. And we’ll make sure every document is handled, translated, and 100% clear.

Until then — mirupafshim, and maybe I’ll see you at the notary. :)