A Complete Guide to Albania eVisas for Minors

With its stunning coastlines, historic cities, and ebullient culture, Albania is becoming an increasingly popular destination for families. But before you wrap your stuff and dream of savoury Albanian cuisine and beaches, it's critical to comprehend the eVisa requirements for your children. Navigating eVisa rules for minors might seem overwhelming, but don't worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining an Albanian eVisa for your children, ensuring a memorable family adventure.

What You'll Need for Your Child's Albanian eVisa Application

Here's a detailed list of what you'll need when applying for an Albanian eVisa for your minor:

1. Valid Passport for Your Child: Valid for not less than three months beyond your intended stay in Albania with at least two blank pages for eVisa stamps.
2. Albanian eVisa Application Form: You must use the Albanian eVisa application form if your child requires an e-Visa. Complete the form on behalf of your child and sign it as a parent or legal guardian. The application for eVisas is conveniently completed online. This page has a short guide you can refer to.
3. Passport-Sized Photo of Your Child: Provide a recent, colour, passport-sized photograph that meets Albanian eVisa photo requirements (typically a white background, specific dimensions, and a clear view of the child's face).
4. Child's Birth Certificate (Translated and Notarised): A copy of the child's birth certificate is mandatory. If the original is not in English or Albanian, you must provide a certified translation that has been notarised.
5. Your Family's Travel Itinerary: Submit proof of round-trip flight reservations or a detailed travel itinerary outlining your family's plans in Albania.
6. Proof of Accommodation in Albania: Provide evidence of where you'll be staying.
7. Proof of Sufficient Funds: You must show that you have enough funds to cover your child's expenses during your stay in Albania. Bank statements can be used as proof.
8. Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended): While not always mandatory, trip protection that covers your child's medical expenses and other unforeseen events is strongly recommended.
9. Parental Agreement Forms: The Paramount Letter
   1. Proper parental consent is vital for minors travelling to Albania. Here are the different scenarios:
      1. Travelling with Only One Parent: A notarised consent letter from the non-travelling parent, explicitly authorising the child to travel to Albania with the accompanying parent, is required. If the other parent is deceased or you have sole custody, bring the death certificate or proof of sole custody, as applicable.
      2. Travelling with Neither Parent: A notarised consent letter from parents or legal guardians is necessary. This letter should authorise the designated adult to accompany the child to Albania.
      3. Travelling Alone (Older Minors): In some cases, older minors (e.g., 16 or 17) may be permitted to travel alone. However, they will need a notarised consent letter from both parents or legal guardians. Check with the Albanian embassy or consulate for specific age restrictions.
   2. What to Include in the Consent Letter:
      1. The child's full name and date of birth.
      2. Accompanying the adult's full name and passport number (if applicable).
      3. Travel dates and destination (Albania).
      4. Contact information for the non-travelling parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
      5. A clear statement granting permission for the child to travel to Albania.
   3. Important: If the original is in another language, all consent letters must be notarized and translated into English or Albanian.

Applying for Your Child's Albanian e-Visa: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

The Albania eVisa makes travelling to this beautiful country with your children easier. Here's how to apply for your child:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure your child meets these basic requirements:

• A valid passport (with at least three months validity beyond your planned stay and two blank pages)
• A clear purpose for your visit (e.g., tourism, family visit)
• Plans to leave Albania by the end of the authorised stay
• Citizenship from an eligible country
• Crucially: Parental consent documents (explained in Step 2)

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather the following, noting the unique Albania Visa requirements for minors:

• Child's Passport: Scanned copy of the information page.
• Child's Photo: Recent passport-size photo.
• Child's Birth Certificate: Copy, translated and notarised if not in English or Albanian.
• Travel itinerary: flight reservations and accommodation details for your family.
• Proof of Funds: To cover your child's expenses during the stay.
• Parental Consent (Notarised):
  • One Parent Travelling: Consent letter from the non-travelling parent.
  • Neither Parent Travelling: Consent letters from both parents or legal guardians.
  • Child Travelling Alone (if applicable): Consent from both parents (check age restrictions with the Albanian embassy).
  • Consent letters must include the child's full name and date of birth, details of the accompanying adults (if applicable), travel details, destination, contact information for non-travelling parents (and an address), and explicit permission stated. They must also be notarised and translated (if not in English or Albanian).

Step 3: Complete the eVisa Application

Fill out the Albania eVisa Application Form for your child, providing:

• Child's information
• Child's passport information
• Travel plans and reason for the visit
• Your details as parent or guardian. Ensure accuracy to avoid rejection.

Step 4: Pay the Fee

You can pay the application fee with a credit or debit card.

Step 5: Submit and Receive:

Submit your child's application. Albania Immigration will review it and notify you via email. Upon approval, your child's eVisa will be emailed to you. Print it and bring a copy for smooth entry into Albania.