Albania

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.

The global situation remains complex. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly, particularly in response to new variants of concern. Should you decide to travel overseas at this time, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses. Talk to your insurer about how sudden changes to the international travel environment might affect your insurance.

Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
Travellers to New Zealand may be required to enter government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). The length of your stay in MIQ may depend on where you are travelling from. Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.

Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
Most travellers must have a negative pre-departure test result and approved documentation to enter New Zealand. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against COVID-19 website here.

We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.

Albania

Terrorism
There is an ongoing risk of terrorism across Europe. Terrorist groups, including those based in Syria and Iraq, continue to make threats to conduct attacks throughout Europe. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could target areas frequented by foreigners.

New Zealanders in Albania are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising a high degree of vigilance in public places, including at tourist sites, restaurants, bars, shopping areas, sporting events and transport hubs. Be alert and take official warnings seriously.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing occurs in Albania and is common in tourist areas, in larger cities and on public transport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

Civil unrest
Public demonstrations occur often, and can happen with little warning causing serious traffic disruptions. Political protests regularly take place in central Tirana. You should avoid all demonstrations and large public gatherings in Albania, as some previous protests have turned violent.  Follow local media sources and be aware of your surroundings.

General travel advice
Landmines are still present in the north-eastern border area with Kosovo, but are often marked clearly as danger zones. New Zealanders are advised not to stray off well-used roads and paths in rural areas.

Penalties for the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Albania should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

New Zealanders in Albania are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Rome, Italy is accredited to Albania

Street Address Via Clitunno, 44, 00198 Rome, Italy Telephone +39 06 853 7501 Fax +39 06 440 2984 Email rome@nzembassy.it Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/italy Hours Mon- Fri 0830-1230 and 1330-1700

See our regional advice for Europe

MIL OSI