Switzerland ETIAS for Albanian citizens: What to know before 2026

If you’re an Albanian passport holder planning to visit Switzerland from 2026 onwards, there’s a new requirement you can’t ignore: ETIAS.

Starting in late 2026, you must apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) to enter Switzerland or any other country in the Schengen Area.

Please note: ETIAS will only launch in 2026. No action is needed for trips before that.

Do Albanians need a visa for Switzerland?

No visa is required for short trips (up to 90 days), but you will need ETIAS authorisation once the system launches.

This new travel authorisation is designed to make border checks faster and safer by screening travelers before they arrive.

What is ETIAS and how does it work for Albanians?

ETIAS is an online pre-screening system that grants travel authorisation to visa-exempt nationals, including Albanians.

You’ll need:

• A biometric Albanian passport, valid for at least 3 months after your departure from the Schengen Area.
• A working email address.
• A credit/debit card to pay the small government fee and iVisa processing (if applicable).
• Basic info about your trip (dates, entry point, etc.)

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, adds:

“It’s quick, but we advise applying at least a week before you travel, just in case the new system comes across teething problems.”

How to apply for Swiss ETIAS from Albania: Step-by-step

Once ETIAS officially launches in 2026, here’s how to apply:

1️⃣ Visit the official ETIAS site or apply through us for an easier experience. You can also use the iVisa app.

2️⃣ Fill in your details, review carefully, and pay the fee.

3️⃣ Wait for your confirmation email, usually sent within hours.

ETIAS will be linked to your passport, so no printout needed, just bring the same passport you applied with.

ETIAS validity: How long does it last?

Your approved ETIAS lets you:

• Enter 30 countries, including Switzerland, multiple times
• Stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period
• Use the same ETIAS for 3 years or until your passport expires

FAQs about ETIAS for Albanian travelers

Do I need ETIAS for every visit to Switzerland?

No. One approval lasts for three years and covers multiple trips.

What if I renew my passport?

You’ll need to reapply for ETIAS, since it’s tied to your passport number.

Can I travel to Switzerland in 2025 without ETIAS?

Yes. ETIAS won’t be enforced until 2026, so you can still travel freely in 2025.

Staying longer? You’ll need a different visa

ETIAS only covers short stays. If you're planning to:

• Study
• Work
• Reunite with family

You must apply for a Swiss national visa instead.

More info is available via the Swiss migration office.

Tips from real travelers

💬 Besart, a travel vlogger from Albania, says:

"Swiss trains are expensive, get a Swiss Travel Pass if you’re visiting more than one city."

💬 Alma, who visited in winter:

"Even spring can be freezing in the Alps. Bring layers and check the weather often."

💬 Reddit user tip:

"Use supermarket chains like Migros and Coop to save money on meals."

Need help? iVisa’s here for you

Still have questions? 💬 Chat with us on WhatsApp or visit our contact page.

We’ve helped over 1 million travelers worldwide. Whether it’s your first trip to Europe or your fifth, we’ll make sure your ETIAS application is hassle-free.