The Philippines, Africa, and India are among the many countries whose citizens are filling the labor shortage in Albania. The number of foreign workers has been increasing, with 9,825 foreigners granted work permits in 2023, rising to 13,000 in 2024.
“We have a staff of 50 people from countries such as Turkey, Uganda, and the Philippines, distributed across different departments. Their contracts include accommodation, three meals a day, declared wages, insurance, and laundry services. A head chef earns between 2,500 and 3,000 euros, while housekeeping staff start at 500 euros and above,” said Albulen Ndrepepaj, Director of Hospitality.
Employment agencies act as intermediaries, working with businesses to fill labor shortages in Albania.
“Thousands of workers are needed again this year, and in 2024, there has been a 25% increase in demand for foreign workers. The primary sources are the Philippines, Africa, and India. There is a growing demand for experienced workers. The hospitality sector has the highest demand, followed by construction and textile industries,” said Suzana Aga, an employee at a recruitment company.
Ambros, a 26-year-old from Uganda, is now in his second working season in Albania and plans to stay longer.
“I came to Albania for two reasons: first, to expose myself to a new environment, and second, to gain new experiences. Back home, I worked as an electrician, but here I manage the beach and swimming pools. I plan to stay for a longer period,” said Ambros Nuwamanya, a beach lifeguard.
Foreign workers typically sign one-year contracts, which can be renewed if both parties agree. However, some foreign workers use their employment contracts in Albania as a stepping stone to enter European Union countries.
“There are very good workers, but there are also cases where things turn out differently. Some workers leave before their contracts end. In such cases, we sign a preliminary contract with a probation period of one to three months. If someone leaves before completing their contract, we report them, and their residence permit in Albania is immediately revoked,” added Albulen Ndrepepaj.
Albania recorded the highest unemployment rate in the region for 2024. According to the Balkan Barometer 2024 survey, 20% of the 1,000 Albanians interviewed were unemployed, while the regional unemployment average stood at 11%.
Business owners urge young Albanians to consider local job opportunities rather than seeking work abroad, emphasizing that employment conditions are now almost identical.
“We need skilled professionals, and salaries are significantly higher,” said Hospitality Director Ndrepepaj.
