First Day Abroad

Health, vaccinations and medical care in Albania

Part of the Albania arrival guide.

This information may change. Always check the official source.Last verified: August 2026 by

No EHIC, state facilities the FCDO calls very poor, bottled water only, and private clinics in Tirana for anything that matters.

Cover

  • The EHIC and GHIC do not apply. Travel insurance is essential and should include repatriation.
  • State healthcare is very poor, in the FCDO's own words, and worse outside Tirana - accident and emergency included.
  • Private clinics in Tirana are the practical option for anything beyond a pharmacy problem.

Everyday health

  • Do not drink the tap water. The FCDO does not hedge on this one: bottled water only, anywhere in the country.
  • Pharmacies (farmaci) are well stocked in towns.
  • Summer heat on the coast is severe.
  • Stray dogs are common; do not approach them, and seek treatment immediately after any bite.
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Sources (2)

What this guide was checked against. Rules and prices change — follow the official link before you rely on a detail.