The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs held an open day on visa applications in cooperation with the Interior Ministry and the Border and Migration Directorate, bringing together more than 30 representatives from about 15 public and private universities.

The meeting focused on visa and residence permit procedures and improving coordination between state institutions and universities.

Foreign Ministry Secretary-General Armand Skapi said Albania should become more attractive to international students not by lowering standards, but by removing unnecessary administrative obstacles, clarifying procedures and defining institutional responsibilities.

About 800 foreign students obtained residence permits in Albania in 2026 alone, highlighting growing interest in Albanian higher education and the need for procedures that are better coordinated, secure and predictable.

The Foreign Ministry said it would continue working with universities and relevant institutions to create a more welcoming environment for international students, in line with Albania’s European Union integration commitments.

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The 2025 proposed draft budget for the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs projects funding to support foreign policy management, as well separate funding for diplomatic and consular activities.

The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs allocated over 3.87 billion lek in the draft budget, a substantial increase aimed at reinforcing Albania’s diplomatic infrastructure and governance, and strengthen ties with other countries.

A fund of 3.56 billion lek will support diplomatic efforts, a significant increase compared with the previous years. The government will earmark 2.96 billion lek to support Albanian missions overseas, where services for diaspora communities and businesses are a focus.

An amount of 598 490 000 lek is projected in planning and management funds, showing the government’s special attention to planning strategies and effective management of resources.

An additional 318.5 million lek is earmarked for consular and diplomatic representation worldwide, reflecting the Ministry’s goal of strengthening Albania’s international presence.

The 2025–2027 objectives include advancing EU membership talks, bolstering dialogue with EU institutions on joint security policies, and increasing Albania’s contributions to international organisations such as the United Nations, where it holds a seat on the Human Rights Council until 2026.

As a NATO member, Albania will continue its support for the alliance’s eastern operations and expand regional ties, notably with Kosovo, while promoting its economic and tourism interests.

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