Money and duty free for Albania
Currency and Money
Currency information
Lek (ALL; symbol Lek). Notes are in denominations of Lek5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500 and 200.
Coins are in denominations of Lek100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1.
Credit cards
ATMs are widespread; most towns have at least one. Most banks, large supermarkets and hotels accept major credit and debit cards. In other settings like small shops and taxis, cash is used.
ATM
ATMs are widespread; most towns have at least one.
Banking hours
Mon-Fri 0800-1600, generally.
Currency restrictions
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited. The export of foreign currency is permitted up to $5000, but higher amounts should be declared.
Currency exchange
Currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change and banks in Pounds, US dollars and Euros. Currency can also be changed on the street, but those exchanges are considered illegal.
Albania duty free
Overview
The following items may be imported into Albania without incurring customs duty:
• 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco (persons who are 17 years and older).
• 1L of spirits stronger than 22% (persons who are 17 years and older)
or
• 2L of alcoholic beverages not exceeding 22% (persons who are 17 years and older)
and
• 2L of wine and 10L of beer (persons who are 17 years and older).
• 3kg of coffee.
Gifts / other goods up to a total value of €300 per passenger (travel by train/car) or €430 per passenger (travel by plane and sea); Children under 15 generally €150.
Banned Imports
Prohibited imports include firearms and ammunition, narcotics, certain endangered plant species, certain animals and their products, and goods which threaten public order.
Banned Exports
Prohibited exports include firearms and ammunition and narcotics. You need to obtain a permit to export precious metals, ancient coins and scrolls, national costumes, antiques, books or works of art which form part of Albania's cultural and historical heritage.
