How to Register a Company in Albania: Step-by-Step (2026)

ByBunchuk Valera

Registering a company in Albania is faster and cheaper than most newcomers expect. A limited liability company — the shoqëri me përgjegjësi të kufizuar, or Sh.p.k. — can be set up through a single agency, the National Business Center, with modest paperwork and almost no required capital. This guide walks through the whole process. For the bigger picture of tax, costs and hiring, start at our Doing Business in Albania hub.

Step 1: Choose your company type

For the vast majority of founders the answer is the Sh.p.k. (LLC): limited liability, one or more shareholders (individuals or companies, local or foreign), and a symbolic minimum share capital. Larger ventures intending to raise capital may instead choose an Sh.a. (joint-stock company), which has a higher minimum capital and stricter governance. One-person, low-risk operations may prefer registering as self-employed instead of forming a company at all.

Step 2: Prepare your documents

To incorporate an Sh.p.k. you typically need:

  • A proposed company name (check availability first).
  • A registered address in Albania.
  • The business activity (object of the company).
  • Shareholder and administrator details, with passport or ID copies.
  • The articles of association (statute) and the act of incorporation.
  • The declared share capital.
  • If you register through a representative, a notarised power of attorney (apostilled if signed abroad).

Step 3: Register at the National Business Center (NBC/QKB)

Incorporation runs through the National Business Center (Qendra Kombëtare e Biznesit, QKB) at qkb.gov.al. The NBC operates a one-stop-shop: a single application simultaneously registers the company in the commercial register and assigns your tax identification number (NIPT). Many founders complete this with a local lawyer or accountant, especially when signing from abroad.

Step 4: Understand the share capital

The minimum share capital for an Sh.p.k. is symbolic — effectively a token amount — so capitalisation is rarely a barrier. You can inject more if you want to signal substance to banks or partners, but you are not required to deposit large sums to incorporate.

Step 5: Register for tax and (if needed) VAT

Registration at the NBC handles your initial tax registration, but you then deal with the General Directorate of Taxes for ongoing obligations — corporate income tax, payroll, and VAT once your turnover crosses the threshold. The rates and thresholds are explained in our business tax guide.

Step 6: Open a business bank account

With your registration certificate and NIPT in hand, you can open a corporate account. Requirements differ for resident and non-resident owners — see opening a business bank account in Albania.

Timeline and costs

With documents ready, NBC registration commonly completes within a few business days. State registration fees are low; the larger variable cost is professional help (lawyer/accountant) and notarisation/apostille of foreign documents. Budget realistically alongside your other launch costs in the cost of doing business.

After registration

Once incorporated you’ll typically engage a local accountant for monthly filings, register any employees (see hiring employees), and — if relevant — explore investment incentives. Relocating founders should also look at the residence permit options.

This guide explains the general framework and is not legal, tax or accounting advice. Rules, rates and thresholds change — confirm the specifics for your situation with a qualified Albanian lawyer or accountant before you act.

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