Payment Methods and Currency Exchange in Albania: Essential Facts for Travelers

Albania’s official currency is the Albanian lek (ALL). Cash remains the most widely used payment method, especially outside major cities. Credit and debit cards are accepted in urban areas, hotels, and larger restaurants, but less common in rural regions.

• Currency: Albanian lek (ALL). Euros (EUR) may be accepted in some tourist areas, but change is given in lek.
• Payment Methods: Cash is predominant. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in many hotels, supermarkets, and ATMs. American Express is less common.
• Contactless & Mobile Payments: Contactless card payments are available in some urban businesses. Apple Pay and Google Pay are not widely supported. Alipay and other international mobile wallets are rarely accepted.
• ATMs: Widely available in cities and tourist areas. Most accept international cards, but transaction fees (typically 2–5%) may apply.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange services are available at banks, airports, and licensed exchange offices. Banks such as Banka Kombëtare Tregtare and Raiffeisen Bank are major providers.
• Restrictions: Large cash transactions (over 1,000,000 ALL) may require documentation. Foreign currency is not widely accepted for payments.
• Cash Import/Export Limits: Up to 1,000,000 ALL (approx. 9,500 USD/EUR) can be brought in or taken out without declaration. Amounts above must be declared to Albanian customs.
• Fees: Foreign card transactions may incur surcharges. Check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
• Tips: Carry sufficient cash for rural travel. Notify your bank before using cards in Albania to avoid blocks.
• Regulations: The Bank of Albania regulates currency exchange and payment systems. Travelers should consult official advisories for updates.