This post provides an in-depth overview of the typical costs involved in establishing and maintaining a standard limited liability company (Shoqëri me Përgjegjësi të Kufizuar, SH.P.K.) in Albania as of 2025. It summarizes the fees, regulatory requirements, and essential figures you need to know before setting up a business entity in the country.
Company Formation Costs in Albania (2025)
A standard SH.P.K. in Albania is the most common company type for local and foreign entrepreneurs. Setting up such an entity requires several mandatory payments, covering everything from minimum capital to mandatory government registrations and professional services. All costs below are provided in Albanian Lek (ALL), with approximate USD conversions based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = 100 ALL (for illustration purposes).
| Cost Item | Amount (ALL) | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum capital requirement | 100 ALL | $1 |
| National Business Center (QKB) registration fee | 100 ALL | $1 |
| Publication in the Official Bulletin | 1,000 ALL | $10 |
| Notary fees (founding act & statutes) | 3,000 ALL | $30 |
| Legal/lawyer fees (average for SH.P.K. incorporation) | 35,000 ALL | $350 |
| Municipality registration fee | 800 ALL | $8 |
| Total Average Cost | 41,000 ALL | $410 |
The bulk of the startup expenditure resides in legal and professional fees. The minimum capital threshold is nominal, and governmental fees are comparatively low.
Ongoing Company Maintenance Costs (2025)
Operating a SH.P.K. in Albania involves recurring annual costs. These range from mandatory accounting services to business license renewals and, optionally, legal retainers for compliance and support. The annual expense can vary based on service levels and complexity, but generally falls within the range shown below.
| Annual Maintenance Item | Amount (ALL) | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory accounting services | 25,000 ALL | $250 |
| Annual tax declaration filing fee | 2,000 ALL | $20 |
| Municipality business license renewal | 3,000 ALL | $30 |
| Optional legal retainer (recommended) | 20,000 ALL | $200 |
| Estimated Total Annual Cost | 30,000–70,000 ALL | $300–$700 |
The minimum threshold mainly covers regulatory filings and required accounting. Higher annual costs reflect the inclusion of optional legal support or more intensive accounting solutions for larger or multi-jurisdictional operations.
Reliable Data Sources
Pro Tips for Efficient Company Setup and Maintenance
- Confirm the latest fee schedules. Government and notary fees are subject to periodic review. Double-check official sources for any fee adjustments before finalizing your incorporation budget.
- Choose experienced local professionals. A knowledgeable accountant or legal advisor can ensure all filings are correct, reducing the risk of delays or fines, especially during the critical first year of operation.
- Maintain proactive compliance. Set clear internal deadlines for annual filings and license renewals to avoid penalties or administrative complications, which can be relatively costly for small companies in Albania.
- Evaluate necessity of a legal retainer. While optional, a legal retainer is highly recommended if your business anticipates rapid growth, disputes, or regulatory changes affecting your sector.
Summary of Company Setup and Maintenance in Albania
Setting up a standard SH.P.K. in Albania is a straightforward process with predictable costs for both incorporation and annual maintenance in 2025. The average creation cost is approximately 41,000 ALL ($410), while annual maintenance typically falls between 30,000 and 70,000 ALL ($300–$700), depending on professional support and additional services. Keeping up-to-date with official requirements and leveraging experienced advisors will streamline compliance and help you avoid unnecessary expenses as you establish or operate your business in Albania.