“Currently, the Republic of Albania has concluded about 20 agreements, 13 of which are enforceable, have already come into effect.

“I would single out the agreements with Switzerland, Germany, and Luxembourg. Meanwhile, three other agreements, which have been approved and ratified by the Albanian Parliament, have been signed with Montenegro, North Macedonia, and with Italy, which has been long-awaited. Additionally, two more agreements, finalized in 2024, with the Republic of Poland and Serbia, will go through the same process before they come into force and become applicable,” said Manjani.

Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation revealed details about the agreements signed for the recognition of pensions and work years for Albanian citizens who have worked abroad.

“Besides the importance of geographic coverage, we want to conclude agreements with all countries, regardless of the number of Albanians living and working there. Even if just one Albanian lives and works in a country outside of Albania, we need to make sure that their social insurance is covered. It is their right to benefit from what is covered, whether in the Albanian social insurance scheme or the schemes of the country they have emigrated to.”

“Of course, the law in no case has retroactive effect, meaning it applies to all citizens who are still employed and will, at a later stage, reach retirement age and gain the right to retire. It is important to emphasize that the Albanian state, in addition to the old-age pension, offers a universal scheme. Therefore, any Albanian citizen living in Albania who has paid social contributions, upon reaching the age of 70, which is a few years beyond the retirement age, automatically qualifies for the social pension in the countries where they live or where they have contributed,” she stated.
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