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Opening a bank account

An Albanian IBAN in one branch visit — what to bring and which banks expats use.

⏱ How long

Usually opened during one branch visit

💶 Opening deposit

Tiny — some banks ask just €10 in a euro account

🪪 Core document

Your passport

Foreigners can open accounts in lek (ALL), euros and dollars. It's easiest with a residence permit, but several banks also open non-resident accounts — for property buyers and people about to move.

Step by step

  1. Pick a bankRaiffeisen, BKT, Credins, Intesa Sanpaolo and OTP all serve foreigners; main branches in Tirana and Vlora have English-speaking staff.
  2. Go in personAccounts for foreigners are opened at a branch, not online. Bring the originals of everything.
  3. Show your documentsPassport, proof of your Albanian address, your residence permit if you have one, and proof of income or where your money comes from — banks must ask under anti-money-laundering rules.
  4. Choose your currenciesOpen ALL for daily life plus EUR or USD for transfers. You get an IBAN, a debit card and mobile banking.
  5. Deposit and activateMake the small opening deposit and activate the banking app before you leave the branch.

Documents you'll need

  • Passport
  • Proof of address in Albania (rental contract or deed)
  • Residence permit, if you have one
  • Proof of income or source of funds
  • An Albanian phone number, for the banking app

Good to know

Albania joined SEPA in 2025, so euro transfers to and from Europe keep getting faster and cheaper.

Buying property or applying for a permit? Open the account first — both go more smoothly with an Albanian IBAN.

Cash is still common outside big shops, but cards and phone payments work across Tirana and Vlora.

Verified help on AlbGate

🏦 Money & Banking — Browse the category →
🛂 Residence permit →🏠 Buying a property →🏥 Health insurance & care →

General information only — not legal, tax or medical advice. Rules, fees and requirements change, so confirm the details on e-Albania or with a verified professional before you act. Facts checked November 2026.