All the foriegn embassies in albania can be found in this page, address, website, telephone and email.
Te gjitha ambasadat e huaja mund ti gjeni ne kete faqe, adresa, faqja e web, telefon dhe email.
Austrian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Austria in Tirana, Albania
Rruga Frederik Shiroka Nr. 3
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: (+355) (4) 2274855
(+355) (4) 2274856
Fax: (+355) (4) 233140
Email: tirana-ob@bmeia.gv.at
Office Hours: 10.00-12.00
Austrian Consulate in Shkoder, Albania
Consulate of Austria in Shkoder, Albania
Lagja Vasil Shanto
Rruga Vaso Kadia no. 260
Shkoder, Albania
City: Shkoder
Phone: (+355) 224 70 14
Fax: (+355) 224 70 14
Email: honorarkonsulat@yahoo.it
Belgian Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Consular Section of Belgium in Tirana, Albania
Kompleks Edicom, Pallati 1
Kati 8, Rruga Taulantia
L1 Durres (Tirana)
City: Tirana
Phone: 00355 68 20 24 156
Fax: + (355) (52) 60.760
Email: consubelalb@hotmail.com
Bosnian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Bosnia- Herzegovina in Albania
Emistokli Germenji, 5
City: Tirana
Phone: (+355-4) 230454
Fax: (+355-4) 234848
Bulgarian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Bulgarian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Rr. Skenderbeu 12
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: 00355 4 22-33-155
00355 4 22-32-906
Fax: 00355 4 22-32-272
Email: bgemb-al@interalb.net
Canadian Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Consulate of Canada in Tirana, Albania
Rr: Deshmoret e 4 Shkurtit; Pallati i Ri
mbrapa Akademise se Arteve; Kati II
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: 355 (4) 225 7274
355 (4) 225 7275
Fax: 355 (4) 225 7273
Email: canadalb@canada.gov.al
Chinese Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Chinese Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Skenderbej Str. 57
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: 00355-4-232385
Fax: 00355-4-233159
Web Site: http://al.chineseembassy.org/
Email: chinaemb_al@mfa.gov.cn
Croatian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Tirana, Albania
Rruga A. Toptani 'Torre Drin' building 4
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: 00 355 4 256 948
00 355 4 2242 463
Fax: 00 355 4 230 578
Email: croemb.tirana@mvpei.hr
Office Hours: Working hours: " Monday-Friday 8.30-16.30
Working hours of Consular Section (with clients): " Mondays and Thursdays 9.00-11.00
Cypriot Consulate in Tirane, Albania
Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Cyprus in Tirane, Albania
Rruga 4 Shkurti Pallati I Ri
Tirane, Albania
City: Tirane
Phone: + 355 4 254 832, +355 68 20 21 377
Fax: +355 4 254 842
Email: vavrami@albaniaonline.net
Czech Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of the Czech Republic in Tirana, Albania
Rruga Skanderbeu Nr. 10
Tirana
Republic of Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 42 234004
+355 42 232117
Fax: +355 42 232159
Web Site: http://www.mzv.cz/tirana
Email: tirana@embassy.mzv.cz
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 7:45am - 4:15pm
Consular and Visa Section office hours for the public:
Tuesday - Thursday: 9am - 12 am - Visas: 1pm-3pm
Danish Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Royal Danish Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Rr. Nikolla Tupe No. 1, 4th Fl.
Apt. 4, Tirana
P.O. Box 1743
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 (4) 22 80 600
Fax: +355 (4) 22 80 630
Web Site: http://www.ambtirana.um.dk
Email: tiaamb@um.dk
Office Hours: Monday to Thursday 8:00am to 4:00pm Friday 8:00am to 2:00pm
Danish Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Royal Danish Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Rr. Dëshmorët e 4 Shkurtit Pallati 7/1, Shkalla 1, Kati 8-te
City: Tirana
Phone: (42) 57395
Fax: (42) 57393
Email: ambadane@icc.al.eu.org
Egyptian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Egypt in Albania
1 Iskandar Bek street
Tirana, Albania
P.O Box 8334
City: Tirana
Phone: (003554) 247986 - 233022
Fax: (003554) 232295
Email: egyemb@albaniaonline.net
French Embassy in Tirana, Albania
French Embassy in Tirana, Albania
14 rue Skenderbeg
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: [355] (4) 223 37 50
Fax: [355] (4) 234 442
Web Site: http://www.ambafrance-al.org/
Email: ambafrance.tr@adanet.com.al
German Embassy in Tirana, Albania
German Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Rruga Skenderbeu Nr. 8 Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: (00355 4) 27 45 05
Fax: (00355 4) 23 34 97
Web Site: http://www.tirana.diplo.de
Email: German.Embassy@icc.al.eu.org
Greek Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Greece in Tirana, Albania
Rruga Frederik Shiroka,
City: Tirana
Phone: (003554) 2274669, 2274668, 2274670
Fax: (003554) 2234290
Web Site: http://www.greekembassy.al
Email: grembtir@mfa.gr
Greek Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Consulate of Greece in Albania
Rruga Frederik Shiroka,
City: Tirana
Phone: (003554) 2274644, 2274645, 2274852
Fax: (003554) 2234443
Web Site: http://www.greekembassy.al
Email: grcon.tir@mfa.gr
Greek Consulate in Gjirokaster, Albania
Consulate General of Greece in Gjirokaster, Albania
Pazari I Vjeter,
City: Gjirokaster
Phone: (00355) 84263804;84263091;84262010
Fax: (00355) 84268141
Email: grgencon.arg@mfa.gr
Greek Consulate in Korca, Albania
Consulate General of Greece in Korca, Albania
Pavllo Katro 4
City: Korca
Phone: (00355822) 52888, 52889
Fax: (00355822) 45052
Greenlandic Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Royal Danish Embassy in Albania
Rr. Nikolla Tupe No. 1, 4th Fl.
Apt. 4, Tirana
P.O. Box 1743
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 4 2280 600
Fax: +355 4 2280 630
Web Site: http://www.ambtirana.um.dk
Email: tiaamb@um.dk
Office Hours: Monday to Thursday : 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Friday: 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
Description: The Faroe Islands and Greenland are part of the Kingdom of Denmark. As a main principle, the Danish Constitution stipulates that the foreign and security interests for all parts of the Kingdom of Denmark are the responsibility of the Danish government.
Hungarian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Hungary in Tirana,Albania
Rugga Skenderbeu 16 Tirana
City: Tirana
Phone: 4-232238
Fax: 4-233211
Italian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Italy in Tirana, Albania
Ruga Lek Dukagjini, n.2
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 4275 900
Fax: 35 54 250921
Web Site: http://www.ambtirana.esteri.it
Email: segreteria@ambitalia-tirana.com
Italian Consulate in Valona, Albania
Consulate General of Italy in Valona, Albania
Rruga Ismet Cakerri, n. 45 Valona
City: Valona
Phone: 0035533225705
Fax: 0035533225706
Email: visti.convalo@esteri.it
Italian Consulate in Albania, Albania
Italian Consulate in Scutari, Albania
Lagjia Migjeni, Rruga Don Bosko
City: Albania
Phone: 762740482
Fax: 0035522248286
Web Site: http://www.consscutari.esteri.it
Email: consolato.scutari@esteri.it; segreteria.scutari@esteri.it
Macedonian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia in Tirana, Albania
Rr. Kavajes
nr. 116, Tirana
Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: 00 355 4 230 909; 00 355 4 274 765
Fax: 00 355 4 232 514
Email: makambas@albnet.net
Dutch Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Netherlands in Tirana, Albania
Rruga Asim Zeneli nr. 10
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 (0) 4 2259 176
Fax: +355 (0) 4 2254 288
Web Site: http://www.mfa.nl/tir-en/
Email: TIR@minbuza.nl
Office Hours: Opening hours: Monday-Thursday from 09.00 - 12.00.
Norwegian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Royal Norwegian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Rruga 'deshmoret e 4 shkurtit'
Pallati No. 5, Tirana
Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 4 256923, +355 4 221666/141
Fax: +355 4 221507
Web Site: http://www.norvegji.org/
Email: emb.tirana@mfa.no
Palestinian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Palestine in Albania
Skenderbeu, No.45 Tirana
City: Tirana
Phone: 35542-34300/ 34056
Fax: 35542-32092
Romanian Embassy in Tirane, Albania
Embassy of Romania in Tirane, Albania
Rruga Themistokli
Gjermeni 2
Tirane
Albania
City: Tirane
Phone: 00355.4.2256071
Fax: or phone: 00355.4.2256072
Email: roemb@adanet.com.al
Office Hours: (Monday-Friday: 9.00-17.00)
Russian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Russia in Tirana, Albania
rr. Donika Kastrioti, 2,
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 42 560-40
Fax: +355 42 560-46
Email: rusemb@albmail.com
Serbian Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Serbia in Tirana, Albania
Rr Donika Kastrioti 9/1
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 4 2232 091
Fax: +355 4 2232 089
Web Site: http://tirana.mfa.rs
Email: ambatira@icc-a
Slovak Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Consulate of Slovakia in Albania
Rr. 'Ismail Qemali' N.11
City: Tirana
Phone: (+355-4) 253219
Fax: (+355-4) 247996
Email: GrandHotel@icc-al.org
Slovenian Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Slovenia Honorary Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Rr.Ismail Qemali, Nr. 14.
City: Tirana
Phone: +355-4-253220
Fax: +355-4-247996
Email: grandhotel@albaniaonline.net
Spanish Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Spanish Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Pilar Gomez Manso
Embajada de Espaba
Rruga Skenderbej, 43
City: Tirana
Phone: 4 274 960 or 4 274 961
From Spain: 00355 4 274 960/ 00355 4 274 961
Fax: 00355 4 225 383
Email: emb.tirana@mae.es
Swedish Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Consulate General of Sweden in Tirana, Albania
Pjeter Budi 76
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: +355 (4) 343486/374997/374424
Fax: +355 (4) 374416
Email: info@sweden.gov.al,fredrik.schiller@sweden.gov.al
Swiss Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of Switzerland in Albania
Ruga e Elbasanit 81
City: Tirana
Phone: (+355-4) 234888
Fax: (+355-4) 234890, 234889
Email: vertretung@tir.rep.admin.ch
Turkish Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Consulate of Turkey in Albania
Bulevardi Zogu I,
City: Tirana
Phone: +355-22-47189
Fax: +355-22-47189
Email: editeli@albnet.net
Ukrainian Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Consulate of Ukraine in Tirana, Albania
Rr. Punetoret e Rilindjes
Nr. 42, (kati 4 ,Ap.3)
City: Tirana
Phone: +355-4-273389
Fax: +355-4-273389
Email: office@ukreons.org.al
British Embassy in Tirana, Albania
British Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Rruga Skenderbeg 12
Tirana, Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: (355) 4 2 34973
Fax: (355) 4 2 47697
Web Site: http://www.britishembassy.gov.uk/albania
Office Hours: Local Time: Mon-Thur: 0830-1700; Fri: 0830-1430 (GMT: +1hr in winter/+2hr in summer)
American Embassy in Tirana, Albania
Embassy of United States in Tirana, Albania
103 Rruga Elbasanit
Tirana
Albania
City: Tirana
Phone: (+355) 4-247-285
Fax: (+355) 4 232-222
Office Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm
Uruguayan Consulate in Tirana, Albania
Consolate of Uruguay in Albania
Rr. Ismail Qemali, Nr. 27
City: Tirana
Phone: +355-4-248766 / +355-4-248767
Fax: 003554245060
Email: petraqgramo@megapharm.net
The information below may not be completely accurate. If you know of any errors or omissions or have any additional information, send us an email and we will update the page.
Showing posts with label Helpful Information. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Helpful Information. Show all posts
Albanian Diaspora
Albanian diaspora
Distribution of ethnic-Albanians in the Balkans.
The Albanian diaspora encompasses Albanians outside of Albania and Kosovo. The greatest concentratinos are found in Turkey, Macedonia, Montenegro, Greece and Italy. There are also smaller communities in Austria, Canada, France, Romania, Belgium, Russia, Scandinavia, Switzerland, Ukraine, UK and the USA.
The Albanian exodus due to the collapse of the communist regime in 1991 and the ensuing economic crisis has been the largest emigration movement in Europe since the population movements after World War II. Between 1989 and 2001, roughly 800,000 people have migrated out of Albania, about 440,000 of them settling in Greece, where Albanians make up 60% of immigrants.[1] 350,000 Albanians have migrated to Italy over the 1990s to 2000s.[2] The situation in Kosovo is similar. More than 600,000 Albanians have left Kosovo since the late 1980s permanently, not counting those fleeing the Kosovo War who have subsequently returned.[3] An important destinatino for emigrating Kosovar Albanians has been Switzerland.[4]
The preference for Italy, Greece and Western European countries during the first waves of emigration during 1991-1995 due to stricter immigration laws has given way in favour of Canada and the United States in the period after 1995. The rate of emigration has decreased during the later 2000s.
The mass emigration of the 1990s to early 2000s has resulted in massive brain drain to Albania. In the period 1990-2003, an estimated 45% of Albania's academics emigrated, as did more than 65% of the scholars who received PhDs in the West in the period 1980-1990.[5]
Balkans
Bulgaria
In 1636, the Mandritsa, a typical village in Bulgaria, was found by Eastern Orthodox Albanian dairymen who supplied the Ottoman Army. They were allowed to pick a tract of land and were freed from taxes. The bulk of the local Albanians arrived in the 18th century from around Korçë and in the 19th century from the region of Souli in Epirus. The locals preserved their Souliot national dress until the 19th century, when the fustanella was substituted by Thracian breeches. However, the female dress was preserved until the mass emigration to Greece in 1913. In the 2001 census of Bulgaria, it was estimated that 10,141 Albanians live in the country.
Republic of Macedonia
Albanians in the Republic of Macedonia
The Albanian population in the Republic of Macedonia has grown constantly since 1948. According to the official census data (held every 10 years), Albanians made up 19% of the total population in 1953. The population fell to 13% in 1961. It grew again in 1971 to 17%. They made up 19.7% in 1981 and 21% in 1991. At the last census in 2002, the Albanian population was at 25.2%. Ethnologue in 2002 estimated some 800,000 people speaking the Albanian language in Republic of Macedonia. In the decade since the Republic declared independence from Yugoslavia, some Albanians have claimed to account for 38% of the population and demanded an appropriate share of power. On the other side, Ethnic Macedonians said Albanians were barely 20%. However, the widely accepted number of Albanians in the Republic of Macedonia is according to the internationally monitored 2002 census. The census data estimated that Albanians account for about a quarter of the total population. In the 2008 Macedonian parliamentary elections, Albanian political parties received 22.61% of the total vote, receiving 29 of 120 seats.
Greece
Albanian communities in Greece
Albanians in Greece form the country's largest population group after the ethnic Greek majority. Due to different waves of migration, they are divided into distinct groups. The Cham Albanians identify with the modern Albanian nation, but were mostly expelled from the region of Epirus during World War II due to their collaboration with the Axis activities. Albanian immigrants, who have entered Greece in large numbers since the fall of the Socialist People's Republic of Albania, form the largest single expatriate group in the country today. After the fall of communism throughout Eastern Europe in the late 1980s and early 1990s, a large number of economic refugees and immigrants from Greece's neighboring countries, Albania, Bulgaria, the Republic of Macedonia, Romania, as well as from more distant countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia, arrived in Greece, mostly as illegal immigrants, to seek employment. The vast majority of the Albanians in Greece is estimated to be between 65-70% of the total number of immigrants in the country. According to the 2001 census, there are 443,550 holders of Albanian citizenship in Greece. There are also 100,000 cham albanians and 150,000 arvanite albanians. There are also thousands of albanian illegal immigrants in Greece. It is claimed that albanians make up 10% of the whole Greece population. It means there are more than a million albanians in Greece.
Italy
Further information: Arbëreshë
There is an Albanian community in southern Italy, known as Arbëreshë, who had settled in the country in the 15th and the 16th century, displaced by the changes brought about by the expansion of the Ottoman Empire. Some managed to escape and were offered refuge from the repression by the Kingdom of Naples and Kingdom of Sicily (both under Aragonese rule), where the Arbëreshë were given their own villages and protected. The Arbëreshë were estimated as numbering at a quarter million in the 1970s.[non-primary source needed] Now it is estimated that there are 350,000 people of arbëreshë descent.
After the breakdown of the communist regime in Albania in 1990, Italy had been the main immigration target for Albanians leaving their country. This was because Italy had been a symbol of the West for many Albanians during the communist period, because of its geographic proximity. Italy reacted to the migration pressure by introducing the "Martelli" law, stipulating that any immigrant who could prove that he or she had come into the country before the end of 1989 be granted a two year residency permit. From March 1997, Italy instituted a strict patrol of the Adriatic in an attempt to curb Albanian immigration. As a result, many Albanian immigrants in Italy do not have a legal status. Out of an estimated 450,000 Albanian immigrants in Italy in 1998, only some 82,000 were registered with authorities.[6]
The Italian Government has housed significant numbers of Albanians from Kosovo in the Arbëresh settlements, most notably in Piana degli Albanesi in Sicily.
Turkey
Many Albanians fled to Turkey during the Ottoman Empire. Many started to colonize in the European part and Asia minor. Later on, Turkey had a wave of 260,259 Kosovo war refugees, which also included Kosovar Albanians. Today it is estimated that 2,500,000 Albanians live there. But most of these albanians are assimilated and they even can't speak albanian. Out of an estimated 1,300,000 albanians speak albanian.
Western Europe
Germany
Albanians in Germany
There are more than 550 000 ethnic Albanians living in Germany. They mostly migrated to Germany during the 1990s.
Switzerland
Albanians in Switzerland
Ethnic Albanians in Switzerland numbered at about 340,000 as of 2006. Albanians have migrated to Switzerland since 1960s, Many of theme migrated from Kosovo. 45 000 Albanians migrated to Switzerland from Macedonia. but as in other host countries, the bulk of immigrants arrived during the 1990s.
Albanians account for more than 6% of Swiss population, the largest Albanian minority outside of the Albanian homeland after Greece (10% Albanian population). The Albanian language is the second largest immigrant language spoken in Switzerland, following Serbo-Croatian.
Overseas
Canada
It was estimated that 122,395 Albanians live in Canada. The first Albanians arrived in Canada at the beginning of the century, following internal pre-war revolutionary upheavals. Few immigrated to Canada after WWII. Most of the post-war Albanian immigrants settled in either Montréal or Toronto. Some found jobs in Calgary and a few in small communities in Ontario (eg, Peterborough). After the inter-ethnic conflict in the former Yugoslavia between ethnic Albanians and Serbian military and police forces, many Albanians left Kosovo as refugees. Some have come to Canada, and in 1999 the Canadian government created a program to offer safe haven to 7000 Kosovar Albanian refugees. However, they continue to appreciate their ethnic heritage and their Albanian national history, even though their ancestors may have left Albania several centuries ago. Those Albanians from Albania proper are active in their business and social organizations. They are frequently found in the food service industry.
United States
Albanian American
Albanians began to settle in the USA in the early 1920s from Greece, Southern Italy and Kosovo, and in the 1990s from Albania, Montenegro, the Republic of Macedonia, and refugees of war. Another Albanian American (Kosovar Albanian) community in the Riverside/San Bernardino area of California includes Kosovars who entered the United States at the March Joint Air Reserve Base in Riverside. The Albanian-American population is currently 113,661, 0.04% of the US population. The correct number isn't known because of that albanians migrated from Greece and Italy to the USA. In Total there are approximately 1,500,000 albanians in the USA.
Table of diaspora populations
Distribution of ethnic-Albanians in the Balkans.
The Albanian diaspora encompasses Albanians outside of Albania and Kosovo. The greatest concentratinos are found in Turkey, Macedonia, Montenegro, Greece and Italy. There are also smaller communities in Austria, Canada, France, Romania, Belgium, Russia, Scandinavia, Switzerland, Ukraine, UK and the USA.
The Albanian exodus due to the collapse of the communist regime in 1991 and the ensuing economic crisis has been the largest emigration movement in Europe since the population movements after World War II. Between 1989 and 2001, roughly 800,000 people have migrated out of Albania, about 440,000 of them settling in Greece, where Albanians make up 60% of immigrants.[1] 350,000 Albanians have migrated to Italy over the 1990s to 2000s.[2] The situation in Kosovo is similar. More than 600,000 Albanians have left Kosovo since the late 1980s permanently, not counting those fleeing the Kosovo War who have subsequently returned.[3] An important destinatino for emigrating Kosovar Albanians has been Switzerland.[4]
The preference for Italy, Greece and Western European countries during the first waves of emigration during 1991-1995 due to stricter immigration laws has given way in favour of Canada and the United States in the period after 1995. The rate of emigration has decreased during the later 2000s.
The mass emigration of the 1990s to early 2000s has resulted in massive brain drain to Albania. In the period 1990-2003, an estimated 45% of Albania's academics emigrated, as did more than 65% of the scholars who received PhDs in the West in the period 1980-1990.[5]
Balkans
Bulgaria
In 1636, the Mandritsa, a typical village in Bulgaria, was found by Eastern Orthodox Albanian dairymen who supplied the Ottoman Army. They were allowed to pick a tract of land and were freed from taxes. The bulk of the local Albanians arrived in the 18th century from around Korçë and in the 19th century from the region of Souli in Epirus. The locals preserved their Souliot national dress until the 19th century, when the fustanella was substituted by Thracian breeches. However, the female dress was preserved until the mass emigration to Greece in 1913. In the 2001 census of Bulgaria, it was estimated that 10,141 Albanians live in the country.
Republic of Macedonia
Albanians in the Republic of Macedonia
The Albanian population in the Republic of Macedonia has grown constantly since 1948. According to the official census data (held every 10 years), Albanians made up 19% of the total population in 1953. The population fell to 13% in 1961. It grew again in 1971 to 17%. They made up 19.7% in 1981 and 21% in 1991. At the last census in 2002, the Albanian population was at 25.2%. Ethnologue in 2002 estimated some 800,000 people speaking the Albanian language in Republic of Macedonia. In the decade since the Republic declared independence from Yugoslavia, some Albanians have claimed to account for 38% of the population and demanded an appropriate share of power. On the other side, Ethnic Macedonians said Albanians were barely 20%. However, the widely accepted number of Albanians in the Republic of Macedonia is according to the internationally monitored 2002 census. The census data estimated that Albanians account for about a quarter of the total population. In the 2008 Macedonian parliamentary elections, Albanian political parties received 22.61% of the total vote, receiving 29 of 120 seats.
Greece
Albanian communities in Greece
Albanians in Greece form the country's largest population group after the ethnic Greek majority. Due to different waves of migration, they are divided into distinct groups. The Cham Albanians identify with the modern Albanian nation, but were mostly expelled from the region of Epirus during World War II due to their collaboration with the Axis activities. Albanian immigrants, who have entered Greece in large numbers since the fall of the Socialist People's Republic of Albania, form the largest single expatriate group in the country today. After the fall of communism throughout Eastern Europe in the late 1980s and early 1990s, a large number of economic refugees and immigrants from Greece's neighboring countries, Albania, Bulgaria, the Republic of Macedonia, Romania, as well as from more distant countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia, arrived in Greece, mostly as illegal immigrants, to seek employment. The vast majority of the Albanians in Greece is estimated to be between 65-70% of the total number of immigrants in the country. According to the 2001 census, there are 443,550 holders of Albanian citizenship in Greece. There are also 100,000 cham albanians and 150,000 arvanite albanians. There are also thousands of albanian illegal immigrants in Greece. It is claimed that albanians make up 10% of the whole Greece population. It means there are more than a million albanians in Greece.
Italy
Further information: Arbëreshë
There is an Albanian community in southern Italy, known as Arbëreshë, who had settled in the country in the 15th and the 16th century, displaced by the changes brought about by the expansion of the Ottoman Empire. Some managed to escape and were offered refuge from the repression by the Kingdom of Naples and Kingdom of Sicily (both under Aragonese rule), where the Arbëreshë were given their own villages and protected. The Arbëreshë were estimated as numbering at a quarter million in the 1970s.[non-primary source needed] Now it is estimated that there are 350,000 people of arbëreshë descent.
After the breakdown of the communist regime in Albania in 1990, Italy had been the main immigration target for Albanians leaving their country. This was because Italy had been a symbol of the West for many Albanians during the communist period, because of its geographic proximity. Italy reacted to the migration pressure by introducing the "Martelli" law, stipulating that any immigrant who could prove that he or she had come into the country before the end of 1989 be granted a two year residency permit. From March 1997, Italy instituted a strict patrol of the Adriatic in an attempt to curb Albanian immigration. As a result, many Albanian immigrants in Italy do not have a legal status. Out of an estimated 450,000 Albanian immigrants in Italy in 1998, only some 82,000 were registered with authorities.[6]
The Italian Government has housed significant numbers of Albanians from Kosovo in the Arbëresh settlements, most notably in Piana degli Albanesi in Sicily.
Turkey
Many Albanians fled to Turkey during the Ottoman Empire. Many started to colonize in the European part and Asia minor. Later on, Turkey had a wave of 260,259 Kosovo war refugees, which also included Kosovar Albanians. Today it is estimated that 2,500,000 Albanians live there. But most of these albanians are assimilated and they even can't speak albanian. Out of an estimated 1,300,000 albanians speak albanian.
Western Europe
Germany
Albanians in Germany
There are more than 550 000 ethnic Albanians living in Germany. They mostly migrated to Germany during the 1990s.
Switzerland
Albanians in Switzerland
Ethnic Albanians in Switzerland numbered at about 340,000 as of 2006. Albanians have migrated to Switzerland since 1960s, Many of theme migrated from Kosovo. 45 000 Albanians migrated to Switzerland from Macedonia. but as in other host countries, the bulk of immigrants arrived during the 1990s.
Albanians account for more than 6% of Swiss population, the largest Albanian minority outside of the Albanian homeland after Greece (10% Albanian population). The Albanian language is the second largest immigrant language spoken in Switzerland, following Serbo-Croatian.
Overseas
Canada
It was estimated that 122,395 Albanians live in Canada. The first Albanians arrived in Canada at the beginning of the century, following internal pre-war revolutionary upheavals. Few immigrated to Canada after WWII. Most of the post-war Albanian immigrants settled in either Montréal or Toronto. Some found jobs in Calgary and a few in small communities in Ontario (eg, Peterborough). After the inter-ethnic conflict in the former Yugoslavia between ethnic Albanians and Serbian military and police forces, many Albanians left Kosovo as refugees. Some have come to Canada, and in 1999 the Canadian government created a program to offer safe haven to 7000 Kosovar Albanian refugees. However, they continue to appreciate their ethnic heritage and their Albanian national history, even though their ancestors may have left Albania several centuries ago. Those Albanians from Albania proper are active in their business and social organizations. They are frequently found in the food service industry.
United States
Albanian American
Albanians began to settle in the USA in the early 1920s from Greece, Southern Italy and Kosovo, and in the 1990s from Albania, Montenegro, the Republic of Macedonia, and refugees of war. Another Albanian American (Kosovar Albanian) community in the Riverside/San Bernardino area of California includes Kosovars who entered the United States at the March Joint Air Reserve Base in Riverside. The Albanian-American population is currently 113,661, 0.04% of the US population. The correct number isn't known because of that albanians migrated from Greece and Italy to the USA. In Total there are approximately 1,500,000 albanians in the USA.
Table of diaspora populations
Table of diaspora populations
| Country | Albanian population | Year |
| 3,500,000 | (2008) | |
| 1,500,000 | (2007) | |
| 2,500,000 | (2007) | |
| 509,083 | (2002) | |
| 33,600 | (2007) | |
| 800,000 | [2004] | |
| 700,000 | [2003] | |
| 113,661 | (2001) | |
| 261,647 | | |
| 164,935 | (2001) | |
| 35,000 | | |
| 350,000 | [2007] | |
| 65,000 | | |
| 340,237 | (2000) | |
| 550,000 | [2006] | |
| 105,706 | [2005] | |
| 60,352 | | |
| 26,186 | (2002) | |
| 24,621 | (2001) | |
| 10,000 | | |
| 37,000 | | |
| 28,212 | (2001) | |
| 2,000 | | |
| 18,000 | | |
| 25,000 | | |
| 38,000 | | |
| 4,802 | | |
| 13,308 | (2001) | |
| 23,293 | (2000) | |
| 25,427 | | |
| 53,220 | | |
| 10,221 | | |
| 5,851 | (2001) | |
| 21,315 | | |
| 46 | (1999) | |
| 1,204 | (1989) | |
| 15,531 | (2001) | |
| 997 | (2001) | |
| 1,495 | (2000) | |
| 10,141 | (2001) | |
| 6,301 | (2002) | |
| 4,976 | (2001) | |
| 3,037 | (2006) | |
| 5 | (2002) |
Visitors Entering Albania
Visa Procedures and Customs
PASSPORT / VISA
All the foreigners* from the following countries enter the Republic of Albania without a visa, with the passport and by paying 10 Euros.
The foreigners that enter without a visa have the right to stay in Albania only 30 days for an entry and they may stay up to 90 days within the calendar year.
VISAS
The citizens of the following countries may obtain a visa at any entry point by payment:
FYR Macedonia (10 euros; at the Embassy 5 euros), Montenegro (free of charge), Israel (30 euros).
The citizens of other countries are required to obtain visas at the missions of the Republic of Albania that cover the country of residence. These missions can also provide them with the necessary information about Albania. The Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs web site carries information in English and Albanian about visa requirements and where to apply.
CUSTOMS
All personal items, new or old may be taken into Albania without incurring custom duties. A reasonable amount of tobacco, beverages and perfumes for personal use is allowed.
Prohibited items include firearms, ammunition, narcotics, drugs and goods jeopardizing the observance of public order and social security. Special export permits are required for precious metals, ancient coins and scroll, antiques, books and works of art, which are considered to be part of national culture and heritage.
Entry by air
All international air arrivals enter through Mother Theresa International Airport, located 25 km northwest of Tirana.
Linkage with the city is provided through a shuttle bus service, the Tirana Rinas Express, running between Skanderbeg Square and Mother Theresa Airport. Shuttle buses depart every hour at the top of the hour, with an approximate cost of 2 euros. Taxi service available at all times, taxi fares mounting to approximately 20 euros.
“Mother Theresa“ Airport
Phone: + 355 4 379 063 / 4
Lost & Found: +355 69 20 666 26
E-mail: info@tirana-airport.com
Website: www.tirana-airport.com.al
Entry by roadways
From Montenegro
Through Hani I Hotit and Murriqan-Sukobina. The first road leads to the Northern City of Shkodra and Lake Shkodra, while the second links Shkodra with Ulcinj Montenegro.
Recently opened is Vermoshi, which links the region of Kelmendi in Albania with Plava and Gucia (Gusinje) in Montenegro.
From Macedonia
Through Qafe Thana pass leading to Pogradec, Librazhd and Elbasan.
From Tushemisht, at the Southeastern end of Lake Ohrid, leading to Pogradec.
From Bllata, leading to Peshkopi or Bulqiza and Burrel.
From Gorica the road leads to the northern shores of Lake Prespa.
From Kosovo
Through Morina pass, which links Kukes, Albania, with Pristina, Kosovo.
From Greece
Through Kapshtica leading to Korca.
From Kakavija Leading to Gjirokastra.
At Qafe Boti Konispol is connected to Filat, and at Tre Urat, connecting Permet with Konica.
There are regular bus services between the following cities:
Tirana - Tetova, Macedonia, through Qafe Thana
Tirana - Prishtina and other towns in Kosovo through Morina
Korca - Thessalonica, Greece, through Kapshtica
Tirana - Athens through Kakavija
Tirana - Sofia, Bulgaria, and Istanbul from Qafe Thana
Transport Travel Agencies operating in Albania:
"ROY - 2"
(Tirana - Pristina; Tirana - Peje) (Tirana - Athens)
Address: Bul. "Zogu I", Tirana
Phone & Fax 04 262 509
"KLID BALLKAN INTERBUS"
(Tirana - Athens -Tirana) (Tirana - Skopje - Tirana)
Address: "Murat Toptani" Str. n 26, Tirana
Phone 04 235 491, Fax 04 222 228
"VJOSA TRAVEL"
Address: "Willson" Square, Tirana
Fax 04 253 929, mob. 068 202 2388
"JOY TRAVEL"
(Tirana - Athens - Tirana)
Address: "Selman Stermasi" Stadium
Phone & Fax 04 273 030 / 272 932
"SKENDERBEU"
(Tirana -Thessalonica - Tirana)
Address: "Mine Peza" Str P. 139
Phone & Fax 04 234 629
Entry by sea
Albania can be accessed by sea through its main ports:
Durres: the Italian ports of Ancona, Bari, Brindisi and Trieste
Vlora: the Italian port of Brindisi
Shengjin: the Italian port of Bari
Saranda: the Greek Island of Corfu
MAIN TICKET OFFICES
ADRIATICA, Durresi Str., Tirana;
Phone 04 231 858,
AGJENCIA TAULANTIA, Durres
Phone 052 222 33 / 273 33, Fax 052 229 11
AGOUDIMOS LINES L 3, “Skenderbeg” Str.nr 111, Durres
Phone 052 242 55 / 303 83; Fax 052 24255
C/ F GRECIA L 3, “Skenderbeg” Str. nr. 12, Durres
Phone 052 251 54; Fax 052 203 41
DUNI, Lagjia 4, “Skenderbeg “ Str., Durres
Phone 052 253 38 / 249 00 / 202 00; Fax 052 240 12
KAD, Durres
Phone 052 251 54; Fax 052 203 41
QUALITY LINE, Lagjia 4, “Prokop Meksi” Str. 156, Durres
Phone & Fax 052 245 71
MAIN PORTS CONTACTS
Port of Durres Phone 052 220 28
Port of Vlora Phone 033 245 21 / 294 18
Port of Saranda Phone 0732 2734
Travel Advice: Macedonia
TRAVEL INSURANCE
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Macedonia. People travelling to Macedonia for dental or medical treatment should ensure that their travel insurance will cover them in case of any complications that might occur. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.
In recent weeks travellers entering Macedonia have been asked to present proof of travel insurance at the border. The Macedonian authorities may refuse entry to travellers who fail to prove that they are insured.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
For entry requirements for Macedonia, please contact the nearest Macedonian Embassy or Consulate.
Travellers entering Macedonia are required to have proof of travel insurance.
It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
SAFETY & SECURITY
Macedonia shares with the rest of Europe a threat from international terrorism. You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
Following the serious inter-ethnic fighting in 2001, the situation in Macedonia has largely stabilised. But the situation is still unsettled and sporadic acts of inter-ethnic and intra-ethnic violence continue to occur. During recent parliamentary elections there were violent incidents in some ethnic Albanian areas of the country. Shootings and other acts of violence have also taken place in Skopje, Tetovo, Kumanovo and Gostivar in recent times. While none of these incidents or attacks has been aimed at Irish nationals or other members of the international community, Irish nationals living in or visiting Macedonia should exercise particular vigilance given the often indiscriminate nature of these incidents and should avoid large crowds, political rallies or demonstrations.
Personal attacks against foreigners are extremely rare. However, since March 2006 there has been a spate of small bombs exploding in central Skopje and some shooting incidents (principally in Cair and the Bit Pazar areas). These have usually been against targeted individuals. There is always, however, the possibility of foreigners being in the wrong place at the wrong time. You should therefore keep to the main areas and streets and be vigilant at all times.
CRIME
There have also been several reported cases of foreigners being pick pocketed by gangs of children and bag snatchers in the main shopping and entertainment areas late at night.
LOCAL TRAVEL
You should exercise caution when travelling in the northern and western regions of Macedonia. Travel should be restricted to primary roads and daylight hours only. A high level of vigilance should be maintained. Particular care should be taken due to the continuing threat from land mines and unexploded ordnance.
You should exercise caution when travelling to the area bordering Serbia. Apart from designated border crossings, the immediate border area is a military restricted zone. Permission must be obtained from the nearest Macedonian police station before travelling to this zone.
The border between Macedonia and Kosovo can be subject to closure at short notice to all traffic.
ROAD SAFETY
Macedonia has brought in new laws requiring all vehicles to use side lights/ dipped headlights during the day.
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Macedonia. People travelling to Macedonia for dental or medical treatment should ensure that their travel insurance will cover them in case of any complications that might occur. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.
In recent weeks travellers entering Macedonia have been asked to present proof of travel insurance at the border. The Macedonian authorities may refuse entry to travellers who fail to prove that they are insured.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
For entry requirements for Macedonia, please contact the nearest Macedonian Embassy or Consulate.
Travellers entering Macedonia are required to have proof of travel insurance.
It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
SAFETY & SECURITY
Macedonia shares with the rest of Europe a threat from international terrorism. You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
Following the serious inter-ethnic fighting in 2001, the situation in Macedonia has largely stabilised. But the situation is still unsettled and sporadic acts of inter-ethnic and intra-ethnic violence continue to occur. During recent parliamentary elections there were violent incidents in some ethnic Albanian areas of the country. Shootings and other acts of violence have also taken place in Skopje, Tetovo, Kumanovo and Gostivar in recent times. While none of these incidents or attacks has been aimed at Irish nationals or other members of the international community, Irish nationals living in or visiting Macedonia should exercise particular vigilance given the often indiscriminate nature of these incidents and should avoid large crowds, political rallies or demonstrations.
Personal attacks against foreigners are extremely rare. However, since March 2006 there has been a spate of small bombs exploding in central Skopje and some shooting incidents (principally in Cair and the Bit Pazar areas). These have usually been against targeted individuals. There is always, however, the possibility of foreigners being in the wrong place at the wrong time. You should therefore keep to the main areas and streets and be vigilant at all times.
CRIME
There have also been several reported cases of foreigners being pick pocketed by gangs of children and bag snatchers in the main shopping and entertainment areas late at night.
LOCAL TRAVEL
You should exercise caution when travelling in the northern and western regions of Macedonia. Travel should be restricted to primary roads and daylight hours only. A high level of vigilance should be maintained. Particular care should be taken due to the continuing threat from land mines and unexploded ordnance.
You should exercise caution when travelling to the area bordering Serbia. Apart from designated border crossings, the immediate border area is a military restricted zone. Permission must be obtained from the nearest Macedonian police station before travelling to this zone.
The border between Macedonia and Kosovo can be subject to closure at short notice to all traffic.
ROAD SAFETY
Macedonia has brought in new laws requiring all vehicles to use side lights/ dipped headlights during the day.
Travel Advice: Montenegro
TRAVEL INSURANCE
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Montenegro. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you wish to undertake. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Montenegro for a stay of less than 3 months. An entry and exit stamp should be endorsed in passports when entering and leaving Montenegro. Entry to Montenegro should only be made through recognised border crossings.
It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
SAFETY & SECURITY
You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
CRIME
You are advised to take normal, sensible precautions to avoid mugging, bag snatching and pick-pocketing. Please be particularly careful on busy public transport, in train stations, markets and other places frequented by tourists. All incidents of crime should be reported to the local police and a report should be obtained.
ROAD SAFETY
You must have a valid international driver’s licence to drive legally in Montenegro. If you are taking your car, you must have vehicle registration/ownership documents and a locally valid insurance policy. There is a mandatory insurance of vehicles at the border crossings. The European green card is valid in Montenegro.
Because of poor road conditions and poor standards of driving in Montenegro, there is an above average number of road accidents. One particularly poor road is the Ibarska Magistrala, bad conditions and overcrowding can make it dangerous.
You are advised to drive defensively, to avoid confrontation with other drivers and to avoid driving at night outside urban areas.
HEALTH
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
The Ministry of Agriculture confirmed in March 2006, that the H5N1 form of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) was found in one dead swan in north eastern. The Montenegrin authorities have taken measures to prevent any spread, including isolating domestic poultry and disinfecting access roads and paths to the area. No human infections or deaths have been reported.
The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.
Because of the danger of rabies, you should be wary of, and try to avoid contact with, stray dogs. If bitten, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Montenegro. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you wish to undertake. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Montenegro for a stay of less than 3 months. An entry and exit stamp should be endorsed in passports when entering and leaving Montenegro. Entry to Montenegro should only be made through recognised border crossings.
It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
SAFETY & SECURITY
You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
CRIME
You are advised to take normal, sensible precautions to avoid mugging, bag snatching and pick-pocketing. Please be particularly careful on busy public transport, in train stations, markets and other places frequented by tourists. All incidents of crime should be reported to the local police and a report should be obtained.
ROAD SAFETY
You must have a valid international driver’s licence to drive legally in Montenegro. If you are taking your car, you must have vehicle registration/ownership documents and a locally valid insurance policy. There is a mandatory insurance of vehicles at the border crossings. The European green card is valid in Montenegro.
Because of poor road conditions and poor standards of driving in Montenegro, there is an above average number of road accidents. One particularly poor road is the Ibarska Magistrala, bad conditions and overcrowding can make it dangerous.
You are advised to drive defensively, to avoid confrontation with other drivers and to avoid driving at night outside urban areas.
HEALTH
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
The Ministry of Agriculture confirmed in March 2006, that the H5N1 form of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) was found in one dead swan in north eastern. The Montenegrin authorities have taken measures to prevent any spread, including isolating domestic poultry and disinfecting access roads and paths to the area. No human infections or deaths have been reported.
The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.
Because of the danger of rabies, you should be wary of, and try to avoid contact with, stray dogs. If bitten, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Travel Advice: Kosovo
The Republic of Kosovo declared independence on 17 February 2008. Ireland has recognised Kosovo’s independence.
The overall security situation in Kosovo remains calm but the government of Serbia and some Serbs in Kosovo reject the declaration of independence of Kosovo. You should avoid public gatherings, protests or demonstrations while in Kosovo.
Intending travellers should also note that the Serbian authorities will not allow you to travel into Serbia, from Kosovo, unless you began your journey in Serbia and are returning there directly. See section on Entry Requirements.
Citizens intending to travel to Kosovo are strongly advised to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs
TRAVEL INSURANCE
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance (including evacuation), is obtained before travelling to Kosovo. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Visit visas are not required for entry to Kosovo for periods of up to 90 days. However, it should be noted that, in accordance with the 2005 UNMIK regulation, you will be required to provide documentary evidence regarding the purpose of your visit (e.g. letter of invitation, business or employment documents). Further details regarding the UNMIK regulation on the Movement of Persons into or out of Kosovo are available at: www.unmikonline.org
The Serbian authorities will not allow you to travel into Serbia, from Kosovo, unless you began your journey in Serbia and are returning there directly or are entering Serbia via Albania, Montenegro or Macedonia.
In June 2008 the UNMIK exit/entry stamps were replaced by Republic of Kosovo stamps, since then there have been incidents of foreign nationals, whose passports contain the new stamps, being denied entry into Serbia.
It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
SAFETY & SECURITY
Independence was declared by Kosovo on 17 February, the government of Serbia and some Serbs in Kosovo reject the declaration and this has led to increased tensions. Although the overall security situation remains calm there are still concerns that it could deteriorate.
Since 19 February a number of police and customs border posts between Kosovo and Serbia have been attacked. Border control points may close as a result of disorder. You should therefore consider alternative routes of travel to Serbia. You should avoid non-essential travel to Northern Mitrovica exercise extreme caution if you must travel to the northern municipalities of Leposavic, Zubin Potok and Zvecan as there is an increased risk of disturbance in these areas. You should not try to enter Kosovo from Serbia via Leposavic and Zubin Potok at present.
It is strongly recommended that citizens avoid any demonstrations or public gatherings as there is a possibility that they may turn violent without warning. Stay alert at all times, monitor local media reports and follow directives of local authorities regarding safety or security risks.
There are still residual mines and other unexploded ordnance. Special care should be taken in the areas of the Dulje Pass (central Kosovo), the west and south of the province, the border with Albania and the region between South Serbia’s Presevo Valley and Kosovo.
You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
CRIME
You are advised to take normal, sensible precautions to avoid mugging, bag snatching and pick-pocketing. Please be particularly careful on busy public transport, in train stations, markets and other places frequented by tourists. The incidence of car-jacking and car theft continue to increase, particularly in the city of Pristina.
All incidents of crime should be reported to the local police and a report should be obtained.
ROAD SAFETY
An Irish driving licence may be used in Kosovo. However, European Green Card vehicle insurance is not valid. Local insurance should be purchased at the border or, if not available, the nearest town.
The general standard of roads is poor with conditions worsening in rural areas, particularly in bad weather. There are risks of landslides on the main route between Pristina and Skopje. It is strongly recommended that driving at night be avoided.
You should be aware that many Serbian car hire firms will not allow their vehicles to be driven in Kosovo due to concerns about the security situation. There have been some incidents where Serbian registered cars have been targeted in more isolated areas of Kosovo.
You should check local developments before starting your journey particularly if you plan to cross a land border with Serbia.
HEALTH
You should seek medical advice before travelling and ensure that all required vaccinations are up to date. The standard of medical care is not comparable to that in Western Europe. You are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical evacuation.
Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), a tick-borne infection is endemic to Kosovo. Although most cases of CCHF occur in the region around Malishevo (central Kosovo), during summer months the other rural areas of Kosovo can be affected. If you have visited Kosovo and are suffering from a fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, red rash (which does not fade when pressed under a glass), bleeding on the roof of the mouth or any other unexplained symptoms, you should seek medical advice immediately.
There is also a risk of exposure to tick-borne encephalitis in forested areas.
NATURAL DISASTERS
Kosovo lies in a seismically active zone and earth tremors are common.
There are risks of forest fires during the summer month, particularly in Northern Kosovo.
The overall security situation in Kosovo remains calm but the government of Serbia and some Serbs in Kosovo reject the declaration of independence of Kosovo. You should avoid public gatherings, protests or demonstrations while in Kosovo.
Intending travellers should also note that the Serbian authorities will not allow you to travel into Serbia, from Kosovo, unless you began your journey in Serbia and are returning there directly. See section on Entry Requirements.
Citizens intending to travel to Kosovo are strongly advised to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs
TRAVEL INSURANCE
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance (including evacuation), is obtained before travelling to Kosovo. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Visit visas are not required for entry to Kosovo for periods of up to 90 days. However, it should be noted that, in accordance with the 2005 UNMIK regulation, you will be required to provide documentary evidence regarding the purpose of your visit (e.g. letter of invitation, business or employment documents). Further details regarding the UNMIK regulation on the Movement of Persons into or out of Kosovo are available at: www.unmikonline.org
The Serbian authorities will not allow you to travel into Serbia, from Kosovo, unless you began your journey in Serbia and are returning there directly or are entering Serbia via Albania, Montenegro or Macedonia.
In June 2008 the UNMIK exit/entry stamps were replaced by Republic of Kosovo stamps, since then there have been incidents of foreign nationals, whose passports contain the new stamps, being denied entry into Serbia.
It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
SAFETY & SECURITY
Independence was declared by Kosovo on 17 February, the government of Serbia and some Serbs in Kosovo reject the declaration and this has led to increased tensions. Although the overall security situation remains calm there are still concerns that it could deteriorate.
Since 19 February a number of police and customs border posts between Kosovo and Serbia have been attacked. Border control points may close as a result of disorder. You should therefore consider alternative routes of travel to Serbia. You should avoid non-essential travel to Northern Mitrovica exercise extreme caution if you must travel to the northern municipalities of Leposavic, Zubin Potok and Zvecan as there is an increased risk of disturbance in these areas. You should not try to enter Kosovo from Serbia via Leposavic and Zubin Potok at present.
It is strongly recommended that citizens avoid any demonstrations or public gatherings as there is a possibility that they may turn violent without warning. Stay alert at all times, monitor local media reports and follow directives of local authorities regarding safety or security risks.
There are still residual mines and other unexploded ordnance. Special care should be taken in the areas of the Dulje Pass (central Kosovo), the west and south of the province, the border with Albania and the region between South Serbia’s Presevo Valley and Kosovo.
You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
CRIME
You are advised to take normal, sensible precautions to avoid mugging, bag snatching and pick-pocketing. Please be particularly careful on busy public transport, in train stations, markets and other places frequented by tourists. The incidence of car-jacking and car theft continue to increase, particularly in the city of Pristina.
All incidents of crime should be reported to the local police and a report should be obtained.
ROAD SAFETY
An Irish driving licence may be used in Kosovo. However, European Green Card vehicle insurance is not valid. Local insurance should be purchased at the border or, if not available, the nearest town.
The general standard of roads is poor with conditions worsening in rural areas, particularly in bad weather. There are risks of landslides on the main route between Pristina and Skopje. It is strongly recommended that driving at night be avoided.
You should be aware that many Serbian car hire firms will not allow their vehicles to be driven in Kosovo due to concerns about the security situation. There have been some incidents where Serbian registered cars have been targeted in more isolated areas of Kosovo.
You should check local developments before starting your journey particularly if you plan to cross a land border with Serbia.
HEALTH
You should seek medical advice before travelling and ensure that all required vaccinations are up to date. The standard of medical care is not comparable to that in Western Europe. You are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical evacuation.
Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), a tick-borne infection is endemic to Kosovo. Although most cases of CCHF occur in the region around Malishevo (central Kosovo), during summer months the other rural areas of Kosovo can be affected. If you have visited Kosovo and are suffering from a fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, red rash (which does not fade when pressed under a glass), bleeding on the roof of the mouth or any other unexplained symptoms, you should seek medical advice immediately.
There is also a risk of exposure to tick-borne encephalitis in forested areas.
NATURAL DISASTERS
Kosovo lies in a seismically active zone and earth tremors are common.
There are risks of forest fires during the summer month, particularly in Northern Kosovo.
Travel Advice: Albania
TRAVEL INSURANCE
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Albania. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
For entry requirements for Albania, please contact the nearest Albanian Embassy or Consulate.
It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
SAFETY & SECURITY
We advise against all travel to the northeast border areas (i.e. the districts of Kukes, Has and Tropoje) between Albania and Kosovo because of the very poor condition of the roads and the risk of unexploded ordnance placed during the 1999 Kosovo crisis.
Please be aware that ownership of firearms is widespread in Albania.
Along with other European countries, there is potential for Albania to experience international terrorism.
CRIME
Public security is generally good, particularly in Tirana, and Albanians are very hospitable to visitors. However, crime and violence still represent a serious problem in some areas. You are advised to be vigilant about personal security, dress modestly and not display expensive items such as watches and cameras.
LOCAL LAWS & CUSTOMS
Penalties for drug related crimes are severe.
ROAD SAFETY
Driving can be very hazardous in Albania. Roads are poor, especially in rural areas. In winter, mountain roads are snowy and icy. During hot spells, the tarmac can melt and become slippery. Flash flooding is possible throughout the year. Drivers should stay alert for large, unmarked potholes. Street lighting in urban areas is subject to power cuts. Elsewhere, except on the major inter-urban arterial routes, there is no street lighting, so night travel is best avoided. There is no national recovery system, so cars should be self-sufficient, carrying minor repair equipment including jack, spare wheel, fan belts, wiper blades, local phrase book, first aid kit, water and overnight food when in remote areas.
Albanian driving can often be aggressive and erratic. If you intend to drive, you are strongly advised to avoid reacting to provocative behaviour by other road users. If you are involved in a traffic accident, even a minor one, you are required to wait until the police arrive.
HEALTH
The Albanian authorities have confirmed that there have been outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in domestic poultry in the village of Cuka near the Butrint Lagoon in south west Albania and in the village of Peze-Helmes, 14km from the capital Tirana. No human infections or deaths have been reported.
The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.
There are high levels of Hepatitis in Albania. Rabies is also a matter of concern as there are large numbers of stray dogs, although there have been no reports of the disease in Tirana at present. Cases of tick borne encephalitis have been reported in the north of the country. Vaccination is available but we advise travellers to keep all areas of the body covered when close to shrubs or bushes, and to inspect themselves regularly for ticks.
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Albania. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
For entry requirements for Albania, please contact the nearest Albanian Embassy or Consulate.
It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
SAFETY & SECURITY
We advise against all travel to the northeast border areas (i.e. the districts of Kukes, Has and Tropoje) between Albania and Kosovo because of the very poor condition of the roads and the risk of unexploded ordnance placed during the 1999 Kosovo crisis.
Please be aware that ownership of firearms is widespread in Albania.
Along with other European countries, there is potential for Albania to experience international terrorism.
CRIME
Public security is generally good, particularly in Tirana, and Albanians are very hospitable to visitors. However, crime and violence still represent a serious problem in some areas. You are advised to be vigilant about personal security, dress modestly and not display expensive items such as watches and cameras.
LOCAL LAWS & CUSTOMS
Penalties for drug related crimes are severe.
ROAD SAFETY
Driving can be very hazardous in Albania. Roads are poor, especially in rural areas. In winter, mountain roads are snowy and icy. During hot spells, the tarmac can melt and become slippery. Flash flooding is possible throughout the year. Drivers should stay alert for large, unmarked potholes. Street lighting in urban areas is subject to power cuts. Elsewhere, except on the major inter-urban arterial routes, there is no street lighting, so night travel is best avoided. There is no national recovery system, so cars should be self-sufficient, carrying minor repair equipment including jack, spare wheel, fan belts, wiper blades, local phrase book, first aid kit, water and overnight food when in remote areas.
Albanian driving can often be aggressive and erratic. If you intend to drive, you are strongly advised to avoid reacting to provocative behaviour by other road users. If you are involved in a traffic accident, even a minor one, you are required to wait until the police arrive.
HEALTH
The Albanian authorities have confirmed that there have been outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in domestic poultry in the village of Cuka near the Butrint Lagoon in south west Albania and in the village of Peze-Helmes, 14km from the capital Tirana. No human infections or deaths have been reported.
The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.
There are high levels of Hepatitis in Albania. Rabies is also a matter of concern as there are large numbers of stray dogs, although there have been no reports of the disease in Tirana at present. Cases of tick borne encephalitis have been reported in the north of the country. Vaccination is available but we advise travellers to keep all areas of the body covered when close to shrubs or bushes, and to inspect themselves regularly for ticks.
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