Albania is a party to the Hague Apostille Convention, so a U.S. document used there needs an apostille plus a translation — and the translation is the part Albania is strict about: it must be done by a translator authorised by the Ministry of Justice.
Quick facts
Albania draws a distinction worth understanding. Documents obtained through the state digital portal for use inside Albania carry an electronic seal. Documents intended for use abroad must bear a wet seal and be apostilled — and for military records, specifically, they are requested through the post office on a designated form.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Issued by |
|---|---|---|
| Apostille on a U.S. state document | $3–$25 per document | Secretary of State of that state |
| Apostille on a U.S. federal document | $20 per document | U.S. Department of State |
| Apostille on an Albanian document | Charged in Albania | Competent authority there |
| Authorised translation | Per page | Ministry of Justice translator |
| Consular authentication | Published tariff | Where still required |
Downloading a certificate from the portal and sending it abroad is therefore not enough. If it carries only the electronic seal, a foreign authority will refuse it.
How to prepare a document for Albania
- Order a certified copy from the issuing office.
- Notarise private documents first, since the apostille certifies the notary.
- File with the Secretary of State of the issuing state, or Washington for federal records.
- Commission the translation from a Ministry of Justice-authorised translator.
- Keep the document, the apostille and the translation together.
Required documents
- Original certified copy with signature and seal.
- Completed authentication request and payment.
- Photo identification for consular services.
- Prepaid return envelope for mail filings.
What the missions do
They issue biometric passports and identity cards, obtain civil certificates from Albania, authenticate and legalise documents, provide notarial services including powers of attorney and property declarations, and assist Albanian citizens in difficulty.
Additional notes
Wet seal for anything leaving the country
It is the distinction that causes the most wasted effort with Albanian documents. Ask for the version intended for use abroad from the outset.
Authorised translators only
A translation from an unlisted translator will be refused, however competent. Ask for the authorisation reference.
Order two copies
Albanian offices keep what they receive, and the chain is not quick to repeat from abroad.
Never apostille a photocopy
The certificate attaches to an original or a certified copy from the record keeper.