Albania has implemented a partial suspension of its visa waiver agreement with Belarus, specifically targeting holders of diplomatic and service passports. This decision, effective May 15, 2024, aligns with Albania’s support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Belarusian passport holders will now require visas to enter Albania, while ordinary passport holders continue to enjoy visa-free travel.
The move underscores Albania’s geopolitical positioning and its commitment to isolating Russia and its allies. Albania’s support for Ukraine is further strengthened by the Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation signed during President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Tirana in February 2024. Albania’s decision to partially reinstate visas for Belarusian diplomatic and service passport holders sends a clear message of disapproval of Belarus’s support for Russia’s military actions.
In a broader context, Albania’s tourism industry is undergoing a strategic pivot, focusing on diversifying its tourist base and promoting the country as a safe and attractive destination for a wider audience. This shift aims to reduce reliance on any single source of tourists and bolster the tourism sector’s long-term growth.
Albania’s recent policy changes, including the visa regulations, reflect its commitment to strengthening its alliance with Ukraine and its proactive role on the international stage. While the focus remains on mitigating any adverse effects on the tourism industry, Albania’s position is clear: supporting Ukraine and upholding international norms. The country’s diplomatic efforts continue to expand visa-free access for its citizens, with the Albanian passport currently ranking 82nd globally in terms of visa-free travel.
