Interest from foreign nationals to live and work in Albania has increased in recent years. Figures show that their number reached 22,000 by the end of last year.

In 2020, Albania hosted 13,600 foreigners. By 2024, this number had climbed to 22,000. The data reflect a steady growth of foreign nationals who have obtained residence permits in the country.

Statistics indicate that 62% of foreigners with residence permits are men, compared to 38% women, while the most represented age group is 30–39 years, suggesting that employment is the main factor drawing them to Albania.

Europe accounts for the largest share, with 66% or about 14,000 individuals, followed by Asia, which represents 20% of foreign residents.

According to the civil registry system, citizens from Kosovo, Italy, and Turkey make up the largest groups of foreigners with residence permits in Albania.

Employment remains the primary reason for obtaining residence permits, accounting for 54% of cases, followed by family reunification with 24%.

Data published by INSTAT also show that in 2024, 1,540 irregular foreigners were identified in Albania.