Best Legal Services in Tirana

Navigating Legal Terrain: The Best Legal Services in Tirana for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

• Self-Employment Permit: For freelancers, independent contractors, or business owners. This category is increasingly relevant for digital nomads.
• Study Permit: For those enrolled in educational institutions.
• Family Reunion Permit: If you are joining family members already residing in Albania.
• Economic Activity Permit (Special Cases): Broadly includes various forms of investment or sustained economic contribution. Each permit type comes with its own set of required documents, which can include proof of financial means, accommodation, health insurance, criminal background checks, and sometimes specific educational or professional qualifications. The application process typically involves submitting documents to the Albanian embassy or consulate in your home country (for the Type D visa) and subsequently to the regional immigration office (for the residency permit) once you are in Albania. This is where expert legal assistance becomes invaluable. A lawyer specializing in immigration law for Tirana can: 1. Assess Eligibility: Determine the most appropriate visa and residency category for your specific situation, saving you time and potential rejections. They can clarify crucial aspects like whether your income must be sourced locally or internationally.

2. Document Preparation: Help you gather and correctly format all necessary documents, including translations and apostilles where required. They can advise on obtaining local documents, such as tax certificates or police clearances.

3. Application Submission and Follow-up: Guide you through the submission process, often acting as your representative, and follow up with the immigration authorities to track your application's status. This is particularly useful for overcoming language barriers and understanding bureaucratic nuances.

4. Appeal Assistance: In case of a rejection, they can help you understand the reasons and assist with filing an appeal.

5. Renewal Processes: Advise on the timelines and requirements for renewing your residency permit, ensuring continuous legal status. Real-world example: A client, an American freelance graphic designer, wanted to move to Tirana for an indefinite period. Initially, they thought a tourist visa could be extended. A local lawyer explained that this was not possible and guided them through applying for a self-employment Type D visa from their home country and then the subsequent self-employment residency permit upon arrival. The lawyer assisted with securing a locally registered address, proving financial solvency through international bank statements, and preparing a business plan, ensuring the application met all criteria. This proactive approach prevented issues that could have led to overstaying a visa or being denied a permit. When choosing an immigration lawyer, look for someone with specific experience in foreigner naturalization and expat law. Ask about their success rates with cases similar to yours and their familiarity with the latest immigration policy changes. For additional resources on relocating, check out our getting started guide. ## Business Establishment and Corporate Law in Tirana Tirana's growing economy presents significant opportunities for digital nomads looking to formalize their operations or even establish a new venture. Whether you're a freelancer wanting to work officially, an entrepreneur building a startup, or a remote worker needing a local entity, understanding Albanian business law is crucial. This section focuses on the types of business entities and the legal support required for their establishment and ongoing compliance. The most common legal forms for small to medium-sized businesses in Albania, and often suitable for digital nomads, include: * Individual Entrepreneur (Person Fizik – Individ): This is the simplest form, akin to a sole proprietorship. It's easy to set up and has minimal administrative requirements. However, the individual's personal assets are not separate from the business's liabilities. It's often suitable for single freelancers or consultants.

• Limited Liability Company (Shoqëri me Përgjegjësi të Kufizuar – Sh.p.k.): This is the most popular choice for small and medium-sized businesses and offers liability protection, meaning the owners' personal assets are separate from the company's debts and obligations. It can be formed by one or more persons (natural or legal). This is generally recommended for those looking for more serious business operations. The process of company formation typically involves: 1. Choosing a Business Name: This must be unique and registered.

2. Drafting Articles of Association/Incorporation: These are the foundational documents outlining the company's purpose, structure, share capital, and management.

3. Opening a Bank Account: A local bank account is usually required for business operations.

4. Registration with the National Business Center (QKB): This is the central registry for all commercial entities in Albania. It involves submitting the necessary documents and obtaining a Unique Business Identification Number (NIPT), which serves as your tax identification.

5. Tax Registration: Registering with the General Directorate of Taxes.

6. Obtaining Licenses and Permits: Depending on the nature of your business, you might need specific operational licenses. While the QKB has made efforts to simplify these procedures, navigating the requirements, especially for non-Albanian speakers, can still be complex. This is where a corporate lawyer becomes indispensable. Their services would include: * Legal Advice on Business Structure: Helping you choose between an Individual Entrepreneur or an Sh.p.k. based on your specific needs, liability concerns, and tax implications.

• Document Preparation: Drafting all necessary legal documents, including the articles of association, shareholder agreements, and any board resolutions. They ensure compliance with Albanian company law.
• Representation at QKB: Handling all interactions and submissions with the National Business Center on your behalf.
• Tax and Social Security Registration: Ensuring your business is properly registered with tax authorities and social security institutions.
• Contract Drafting and Review: Assisting with commercial contracts, client agreements, supplier agreements, and employment contracts if you plan to hire local staff. Understanding contract law is vital for any business.
• Intellectual Property (IP) Protection: Advising on registering trademarks, copyrights, and patents in Albania, which is crucial for protecting your business's unique assets. More information on global IP protection can be found in our digital nomad legal guide.
• Ongoing Compliance: Providing guidance on annual reporting requirements, corporate governance, and any changes in business law that might affect your operations. Practical Tip: When interviewing corporate lawyers, ask them about their experience with foreign-owned businesses and their familiarity with international taxation principles. Request a clear breakdown of fees for each stage of the company formation process and inquire about ongoing retainer options for compliance. Look for lawyers who can also recommend reputable local accountants, as legal and accounting services often go hand-in-hand for businesses. Consider looking into our article on doing business remotely for more general advice. ## Property Law and Rental Agreements in Tirana Finding a comfortable and legally sound place to live is a critical aspect of settling into Tirana. Whether you're renting an apartment for a few months or considering purchasing property for a long-term investment, navigating Albania's property law requires careful attention. Mistakes in rental agreements or property purchases can lead to significant financial and legal headaches. ### Rental Agreements For most digital nomads, renting is the primary concern. While short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb are common, for stays longer than a few months, a formal lease agreement with a landlord is standard. Key legal aspects of rental agreements in Tirana include: * Contract Duration: Rental agreements can be for fixed terms (e.g., 6 months, 1 year) or indefinite. Shorter terms offer flexibility, but longer terms may provide better pricing.
• Rent and Deposit: Agreements should clearly state the monthly rent, payment due dates, and the security deposit amount (typically one or two months' rent).
• Utilities: Clarify who is responsible for utility payments (electricity, water, internet, heating/cooling) and whether they are included in the rent.
• Maintenance and Repairs: The contract should specify responsibilities for general maintenance and repairs.
• Termination Clauses: Understand the conditions under which either party can terminate the agreement early, including notice periods and any penalties.
• Inventory List: It's highly advisable to have a detailed inventory of the property's contents and condition attached to the contract, preventing disputes upon moving out. Why a lawyer is essential for rentals:

Although often overlooked for rentals, a lawyer can be very beneficial. They can:

1. Review the Lease Agreement: Ensure the contract is fair, includes all necessary clauses, and complies with Albanian law. They can identify any exploitative terms.

2. Negotiate Terms: Assist in negotiating favorable terms regarding rent, deposit return, and any special conditions.

3. Clarify Rights and Obligations: Explain your rights as a tenant and the landlord's obligations, especially regarding property access, repairs, and eviction procedures.

4. Mediation: In case of disputes (e.g., deposit not returned, maintenance issues), a lawyer can mediate or represent you in formal proceedings. ### Property Purchase For digital nomads considering a long-term investment or settlement, purchasing property in Tirana can be an attractive option due to relatively lower prices compared to Western Europe and potential for capital appreciation. However, the property purchase process in Albania has its unique complexities and requires thorough due diligence. The general steps for buying property involve: 1. Finding a Property: Working with reputable real estate agents.

2. Preliminary Agreement (Pre-Contract): A preliminary agreement is often signed, accompanied by a deposit to reserve the property.

3. Due Diligence: This is the most critical phase where a lawyer conducts extensive checks.

4. Final Sale Contract: Signed before a Public Notary.

5. Registration of Ownership: The notary registers the new ownership with the Immovable Property Registration Office (Zyrën e Regjistrimit të Pasurive të Paluajtshme – ZVRPP). The indispensable role of a property lawyer:

A lawyer specializing in real estate law is absolutely crucial for property purchases. They will:

• Verify Ownership: Conduct checks to ensure the seller is the legal owner and has the right to sell the property. This includes checking for any liens, mortgages, or encumbrances.
• Check for Legal Disputes: Ascertain if the property is involved in any ongoing legal issues or boundary disputes.
• Permit Verification: Confirm that the property has all necessary construction permits and is compliant with urban planning regulations. This is particularly important for new constructions.
• Draft and Review Contracts: Prepare or review the preliminary and final sale contracts, ensuring they protect your interests and are legally sound.
• Represent You at the Notary: Be present during the signing of the final contract before the Public Notary, ensuring all procedures are followed correctly.
• Registration Assistance: Manage the registration of your new ownership with the ZVRPP.
• Tax Implications: Advise on property transfer taxes, annual property taxes, and any other associated costs. Actionable Advice: Before signing any document related to property, whether rental or purchase, have it reviewed by an independent lawyer. Never rely solely on the agent's or seller's lawyer. For properties, especially older ones, consider engaging a structural engineer for an independent inspection in addition to legal checks. For insights on finding suitable housing, refer to our Tirana housing guide. ## Tax Law and Financial Compliance for Remote Workers One of the often-overlooked yet critical aspects for digital nomads and remote workers operating from Tirana is understanding their tax obligations and ensuring financial compliance. The rules can be intricate, depending on your nationality, where your income is sourced, and your residency status in Albania. Missteps can lead to penalties, audits, and significant financial strain. ### Tax Residency in Albania The primary determinant of your tax obligations is your tax residency status. Generally, an individual is considered a tax resident in Albania if they:
• Spend more than 183 days in Albania within a 12-month period.
• Have their permanent home in Albania (even if residing elsewhere temporarily).
• Have their center of vital interests (personal and economic ties) in Albania. If you are deemed a tax resident, you are generally subject to Albanian income tax on your worldwide income. If you are not a tax resident, you might only be subject to tax on income sourced within Albania. Albania has a flat tax rate system:
• Personal Income Tax (PIT): A flat rate of 13% for income up to ALL 1,800,000 per year (approx. €15,000) and 23% for income above this threshold.
• Corporate Income Tax (CIT): A flat rate of 15%. Small businesses with annual turnover below ALL 14 million (approx. €115,000) may qualify for a simplified tax regime, potentially with a lower or zero tax rate on profit, though this requires careful verification with current laws. ### Key Areas Where Legal/Tax Guidance is Needed: 1. Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs): Albania has DTAs with numerous countries. If your home country also considers you a tax resident, a DTA can help prevent you from being taxed twice on the same income. A lawyer or tax consultant can interpret these treaties and advise on how to claim relief. This is a common concern for professionals moving between different countries, and our guide to international taxation offers more general context.

2. Income Sourcing: For remote workers, distinguishing between income sourced locally and internationally is crucial. If your clients are outside Albania and your services are rendered from Albania, an Albanian tax resident will generally be taxed in Albania.

3. Social Security Contributions: If you are formally employed by an Albanian entity or registered as a self-employed individual, you will likely be required to make social security and health insurance contributions. These rates are typically a percentage of your declared income, split between employer and employee (or entirely by the self-employed).

4. VAT (Value Added Tax): If your business generates a certain level of turnover, you might be required to register for VAT and collect/remit it. The current standard VAT rate in Albania is 20%. Exemption thresholds apply, and professional advice is needed to understand if your services fall under VAT obligations.

5. Bookkeeping and Reporting: Even for individual entrepreneurs, maintaining proper financial records and submitting annual tax declarations is mandatory. A lawyer can advise on the legal requirements for record-keeping and recommend reliable accountants. ### Finding Legal/Tax Professionals: It's common for law firms in Tirana to have departments or associated partners specializing in tax law. You should look for:

• Specialized Expertise: Lawyers or tax consultants with proven experience in international taxation, DTA application, and advising foreign nationals or businesses.
• Bilingual Services: Ensuring they can communicate effectively in English and explain complex tax concepts clearly.
• Integrated Services: Some firms offer both legal and accounting services, which can be convenient for businesses, ensuring a coordinated approach to compliance.
• Reputation: Seek referrals from other digital nomads or expatriates in Tirana, or check professional associations. Actionable Advice:
• Proactive Planning: Do not wait until tax season. Consult with a tax lawyer/accountant as soon as you establish residency or start earning income in Tirana.
• Clear Documentation: Keep meticulous records of all income, expenses, and international transactions.
• Understand Your Status: Clearly determine if you are a tax resident in Albania and understand the implications for your worldwide income.
• Review Your Contracts: Ensure your remote work contracts specify your tax responsibilities and address potential issues related to permanent establishment if your employer is foreign. Our contract negotiation tips could be helpful. Managing your tax affairs correctly is paramount for a worry-free stay in Tirana. The initial investment in professional tax advice can save you significant trouble and money in the long run. ## Employment Law and Remote Work Contracts Many digital nomads and remote workers still maintain employment relationships with companies based outside Albania. While this offers flexibility, it also raises important questions about employment law, the validity of your contracts under local legislation, and your rights and obligations while residing in Tirana. For those considering hiring local staff or setting up a local entity, Albanian labor law becomes even more critical. ### For Remote Employees of Foreign Companies: Even if your employer is based abroad, your residence in Albania can introduce legal complexities concerning your employment status. Key considerations include: * Permanent Establishment (PE): If you, as a remote employee, consistently work from Albania, there's a risk that your employer could be deemed to have a "permanent establishment" in Albania for tax purposes. This can trigger corporate tax obligations for your employer in Albania. A lawyer specializing in tax and corporate law can advise on how to mitigate this risk for both you and your employer.
• Labor Law Applicability: While your employment contract might be governed by the laws of your employer's country, certain mandatory aspects of Albanian labor law (e.g., health and safety regulations, anti-discrimination laws) might still apply to you while you are physically present in Albania.
• Social Security and Health Insurance: Even if your employer doesn't have a local entity, an individual working from Albania as a tax resident may be obligated to pay social security and health insurance contributions as a self-employed person, even if they consider themselves an employee of a foreign company. This is a nuanced area requiring expert advice.
• Visa/Residency Requirements: As discussed, your employment status will dictate the type of visa and residency permit you need. A lawyer can provide crucial advice on how to structure your relationship with your foreign employer to ensure compliance with Albanian regulations and to protect your personal interests. They can review your remote work contract to identify any clauses that might conflict with local law or put you at a disadvantage. ### For Engaging Local Staff or Contractors in Tirana: If your remote business grows or you decide to establish a local office, you might need to engage local talent. This immediately brings Albanian labor law into play. Key aspects of Albanian labor law include: * Employment Contracts: All employment relationships must be formalized with a written contract. This contract must comply with the Albanian Labor Code, specifying job duties, working hours, remuneration, probationary periods, notice periods, and termination conditions.
• Minimum Wage and Salaries: Albania has a statutory minimum wage. Salaries must be paid in local currency (ALL), and adherence to local payment schedules and methods is required.
• Working Hours and Overtime: Standard working hours are 40 hours per week, with specific rules for overtime compensation.
• Annual Leave and Public Holidays: Employees are entitled to a minimum number of paid annual leave days and public holidays.
• Sick Leave and Maternity/Paternity Leave: Specific provisions exist for sick leave, maternity leave, and paternity leave, including remuneration and job protection.
• Termination of Employment: Strict rules govern the termination of employment contracts, including notice periods, reasons for dismissal, and severance pay. Unfair dismissal can lead to legal disputes.
• Social Security and Health Contributions: Employers are legally obligated to make contributions on behalf of their employees. ### How a Lawyer Helps with Employment Matters: * Contract Drafting and Review: Drafting legally compliant employment contracts for local hires, including agreements for freelance contractors. They ensure that all terms adhere to the Albanian Labor Code.
• HR Policy Development: Assisting in developing internal HR policies that align with local regulations, particularly important for small businesses without dedicated HR departments.
• Compliance Audits: Conducting audits to ensure your hiring and employment practices are fully compliant with Albanian labor law.
• Dispute Resolution: Representing you in labor disputes, whether with employees or local authorities, through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings.
• Advising on Remote Work Policies: If you are an employer bringing foreign talent to Tirana, a lawyer can advise on legal challenges and offer solutions to ensure legal compliance for both the business and the employee. Real-world scenario: An expat running a small online marketing agency established an Sh.p.k. in Tirana and wanted to hire a local digital marketing specialist. Their lawyer drafted an employment contract that correctly specified the probationary period, annual leave, and social security contributions according to Albanian law. The lawyer also advised on the correct procedure for registering the employee with relevant state institutions, ensuring the client avoided potential fines for non-compliance. Engaging a lawyer with expertise in labor law and expatriate employment is vital for any digital nomad or remote worker whose employment situation touches upon Albanian jurisdiction, either as an employee or an employer. For more insights on building remote teams, see our remote team management guide. ## Intellectual Property Rights and Protection In the digital world, intellectual property (IP) is often a digital nomad's most valuable asset. Whether it's the code you write, the designs you create, the content you publish, or the brand name you build, protecting your intellectual property rights is crucial. While working from Tirana, understanding how Albanian law protects your IP and what steps you need to take for safeguarding it internationally is paramount. Albania is a signatory to several international IP treaties, including the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) conventions and agreements that align its IP laws with European Union standards. This means that many fundamental IP protections are in place, but local registration and enforcement mechanisms are country-specific. ### Key Forms of Intellectual Property and Albanian Protection: 1. Copyright: What it protects: Original literary, artistic, scientific, and software works. In most countries, including Albania, copyright protection arises automatically upon creation, without the need for registration. Albanian Context: The Albanian Law on Copyright and Related Rights (Law No. 35/2016) provides protection for creators. While registration is not mandatory for protection, formally submitting your work to the Albanian Copyright Office can provide a public record of ownership, which can be useful in disputes. Digital Nomad Relevance: Crucial for designers, writers, developers, musicians, and artists. Ensure your client contracts clearly define ownership of works created. Our article on copyright for freelancers offers general guidance. 2. Trademarks: What it protects: Signs (words, logos, colors, sounds, etc.) used to distinguish the goods or services of one enterprise from those of others. Albanian Context: Trademark protection in Albania is obtained through registration with the General Directorate of Patents and Trademarks (GDPT). Registration grants exclusive rights to use the mark for specific goods and services within Albania. Digital Nomad Relevance: Essential for branding your business, apps, or products. If you plan to operate your business locally or target the Albanian market, registering your trademark there is a strategic move. For broader protection, consider international registration systems like the Madrid System. 3. Patents: What it protects: Inventions – new and useful processes, machines, articles of manufacture, or compositions of matter. Albanian Context: Patents are granted by the GDPT for a period of 20 years, provided the invention meets criteria of novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability. Digital Nomad Relevance: Relevant for tech entrepreneurs, software developers innovating new algorithms or processes, or anyone developing tangible products. Patents are complex and highly specialized. 4. Industrial Designs: What it protects: The ornamental or aesthetic aspect of an article (e.g., the shape of a new product). Albanian Context: Registered with the GDPT. 5. Trade Secrets: What it protects: Confidential business information that provides a competitive edge (e.g., customer lists, formulas, unique processes). * Albanian Context: Protected by law against unauthorized acquisition, use, or disclosure, but relies heavily on internal company policies, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), and internal security measures. ### The Role of an IP Lawyer: An intellectual property lawyer in Tirana can provide critical assistance:
• IP Strategy: Advising on the most appropriate IP protection strategies for your specific creations and business model, both in Albania and internationally.
• Trademark Search and Registration: Conducting availability searches to ensure your desired trademark is not already in use and guiding you through the registration process with the GDPT.
• Patent Drafting and Prosecution: For inventors, assisting with the complex process of drafting patent applications and managing their examination.
• Copyright Advice: Explaining your rights, advising on copyright notices, and helping with copyright assignments or licensing agreements.
• Enforcement: Representing you in cases of IP infringement, including sending cease-and-desist letters, negotiating settlements, or initiating legal action in Albanian courts.
• Licensing and Technology Transfer: Drafting and reviewing agreements for licensing your IP to others or acquiring IP rights.
• Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): Drafting NDAs to protect your trade secrets when collaborating with others. Key considerations for Digital Nomads:
• Global vs. Local Protection: Decide whether you need only local Albanian protection or broader international coverage. An IP lawyer can help you register through international systems if needed, linking to local databases.
• Client Contracts: Ensure your contracts with clients clearly define IP ownership and usage rights, especially if you create works for hire.
• Confidentiality: Implement strict confidentiality policies within your business, especially if you have sensitive information. Protecting your intellectual property is an investment in your future. Don't underestimate its importance just because you're operating remotely. Find an experienced IP attorney to safeguard your creative output. For more on protecting your digital assets, explore our online security tips which often touch on data and digital rights. ## Dispute Resolution and Litigation in Albania Even with the best preparation, legal disputes can unfortunately arise. For digital nomads and remote workers in Tirana, these could range from disagreements with landlords or service providers to more complex business disputes or unforeseen personal legal challenges. Understanding the avenues for dispute resolution and the basics of litigation in Albania is crucial for protecting your rights and interests. Albania's legal system, while civil law-based, has undergone reforms aimed at increasing efficiency and transparency. However, court proceedings can still be time-consuming and may require a deep understanding of local procedures. ### Common Types of Disputes for Digital Nomads: Contractual Disputes: Rental Agreements: Disagreements over security deposit returns, property damage, early termination, or landlord obligations. Service Contracts: Issues with local service providers (e.g., internet providers, repair services, builders) failing to deliver as agreed. Business Contracts: Disputes with local clients, suppliers, or business partners regarding payment, delivery, or service quality.
• Consumer Protection Issues: Problems with faulty goods or services purchased locally.
• Administrative Disputes: Challenges to decisions made by public administration bodies (e.g., immigration office decisions, business registration issues, tax assessments).
• Labor Disputes: If you employ local staff, disagreements can arise regarding employment terms, termination, or workplace conditions.
• Property Disputes: More complex issues related to property boundaries, ownership claims, or construction defects (for property owners). ### Avenues for Dispute Resolution: 1. Negotiation: The first and often most cost-effective step is direct negotiation with the other party. A lawyer can represent you, draft correspondence, and help structure a settlement.

2. Mediation: Albania's law on mediation encourages this as an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanism. A neutral third party (mediator) helps the parties reach a mutually agreeable solution. Mediation is typically less formal, faster, and cheaper than litigation, and often results in preserving relationships.

3. Arbitration: For commercial disputes, arbitration clauses are common in contracts. This involves submitting the dispute to an arbitrator or panel of arbitrators whose decision is legally binding. Albania has an Arbitration Chamber, and international arbitration is also available for cross-border commercial disputes.

4. Litigation (Court Proceedings): If other methods fail, pursuing a case through the Albanian court system (District Courts, Appeal Courts, and the Supreme Court) might be necessary. ### The Role of a Litigation Lawyer: A lawyer specializing in litigation and civil law will be your essential guide and representative in any formal dispute. Their services include:

• Case Assessment: Evaluating the merits of your case, advising on the potential outcomes, risks, and costs involved.
• Legal Strategy: Developing a strategic approach to resolve the dispute, whether through negotiation, mediation, or court action.
• Document Preparation: Drafting all necessary legal documents, including demand letters, court pleadings, and evidence submissions.
• Evidence Gathering: Assisting in collecting and organizing evidence to support your case.
• Representation: Representing you in negotiations, mediation sessions, and all court hearings. This is particularly vital in a foreign legal system.
• Enforcement: If a court judgment or arbitration award is obtained, assisting with its enforcement.
• Appeals: Advising and representing you in appeal proceedings if you are dissatisfied with a lower court's decision. Practical Tips:
• Keep Records: Maintain meticulous records of all communications, contracts, payments, and interactions related to any potential dispute. This documentation is invaluable.
• Act Promptly: Do not delay seeking legal advice if a dispute arises. Albanian law has statutes of limitations, and timely action is often crucial.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Work with your lawyer to understand the potential costs of pursuing a dispute versus the potential benefits. Sometimes, a settlement is the more pragmatic option. Learn more about managing legal costs.
• Communication: Ensure your lawyer provides regular updates and explains the process in a way you understand, especially if there's a language barrier. Experiencing a legal dispute in a foreign country can be stressful. Having a skilled and trustworthy lawyer by your side significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome and peace of mind. ## Family Law and Personal Matters for Expats While digital nomads often focus on their professional lives, personal matters and family law can unexpectedly arise, even when living abroad. From marriage and divorce to child custody, adoption, and inheritance, understanding how Albanian law applies to these sensitive areas is important for any expat planning a long-