Albania is an emerging destination for international students, including those from Pakistan, who are looking for affordable education, a vibrant cultural experience, and opportunities to explore Europe. If you’re considering Albania for your higher studies, it’s important to understand the Type D Study Visa, requirements and opportunities.
📌 Type D Study Visa – The Basics
- What it is: A long-stay visa Type D for students admitted to Albanian universities, valid for more than 90 days.
- Duration: Usually issued for 1 year, renewable based on your program length.
- Where to apply: Pakistani applicants apply via the Albanian Embassy in Ankara, Turkey, as there is no full Albanian embassy in Pakistan.
- Processing time: On average, 2–4 weeks through the embassy
✅ Requirements for Pakistani Students
- University admission/acceptance letter
From a recognized Albanian higher education institution. - Proof of accommodation
Rental contract, booking, or university housing confirmation. - Financial proof (bank statements)
Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs (usually a few thousand euros per year). If bringing a spouse, you must show additional financial support. - Health/travel insurance
Covering your entire stay. - Criminal record / good character certificate
Issued by Pakistani authorities. - Language proficiency (case by case)
Proof of knowledge of Albanian or the language in which your course is taught (often English).
Also Check for : UAE Digital Nomad Visa
💵 Estimated Budget for Students
Tuition and living costs in Albania are lower compared to many European countries. Below are approximate yearly costs for Pakistani students:
🎓 Bachelor’s Degree
- Tuition: €2,000 – €4,000 per year
- Living costs (without dependent): €2,500 – €4,000 per year
- Living costs (with spouse/dependent): €4,500 – €6,500 per year
🎓 Master’s Degree
- Tuition: €2,500 – €5,000 per year
- Living costs (without dependent): €3,000 – €4,500 per year
- Living costs (with spouse/dependent): €5,500 – €7,500 per year
🎓 PhD / Doctoral Studies
- Tuition: €3,000 – €6,000 per year (some programs may have scholarships or lower tuition if research-based)
- Living costs (without dependent): €3,500 – €5,000 per year
- Living costs (with spouse/dependent): €6,500 – €8,500 per year
💼 Work Opportunities During Studies
- Many advisory sources suggest that international students may work part-time, often up to 20 hours per week during semesters, and full-time during holidays.
- Universities also provide internship opportunities as part of study programs, which may lead to future employment.
🎓 Post-Study Opportunities
- After graduation, you may apply to switch from a student residence permit to a work or business permit if you secure employment.
- Some sources mention a 1-year post-study stay to find work, but rules are not always consistent.
- Long-term residency may be possible after several years of legal residence and employment in Albania.
👨👩👦 Bringing Your Spouse or Dependents
- Dependents (spouse and children) can join you under a Family Reunion Visa (Type D / BF).
- Requirements include:
- Valid marriage/birth certificates (legalized/translated)
- Proof of housing suitable for family
- Extra financial proof to show you can support your spouse/children
- Health insurance coverage for dependents
- Work rights for dependents: Not automatic. Your spouse may need a separate work permit or change of residence type to be employed legally.
🎓 List of Universities
- University of Tirana
- Albanian University
- Epoka University
- European University of Tirana
- University of New York Tirana
- POLIS University
- Universiteti Barleti
- University of Arts
- Universiteti Metropolitan Tirana
- Sports University of Tirana
- Wisdom University
- University of Tetovo
- South east European University
- Kristal University
- Institute of History