Staying Connected With Loved Ones From Albania

Published on October 1, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Albania, a country undergoing rapid technological transformation, now offers numerous possibilities for staying connected with your loved ones, wherever they are in the world. Whether you’re a long-term expatriate or just passing through for a few months, this guide will help you navigate the Albanian digital landscape and choose the best options for effective communication.

The Telecommunications Boom in Albania

In recent years, Albania has experienced a true revolution in the telecommunications sector. The mobile penetration rate reached 134% in 2024, surpassing the European average. This rapid growth has been accompanied by constant improvements in network quality and coverage.

The Albanian government has implemented an ambitious plan to develop the country’s digital infrastructure. Massive investments have been made to expand 4G and 5G coverage, including in rural areas. The result: by 2025, over 95% of Albanian territory is covered by 4G, while 5G is available in all major cities.

This rapid modernization provides expatriates and long-term travelers with reliable and high-performance connectivity, essential for maintaining connections with their loved ones abroad.

Albanian Telecom Giants: Your Gateway to the World

To stay connected in Albania, you’ll have a choice between several mobile operators and internet service providers. Here’s an overview of the main market players:

1. Vodafone Albania: The Undisputed Leader

A subsidiary of the British giant Vodafone, this operator dominates the Albanian market with a 48% market share in 2025. Vodafone Albania offers a wide range of plans tailored to expatriates’ needs:

• Generous data plans, up to 100 GB per month
• Preferential rate international calling options
• A 5G network covering the country’s main cities
• A high-performance mobile app for managing your account and services

2. One Telecommunications: The Quality Alternative

Born from the merger of Telekom Albania and ALBtelecom, One Telecommunications is Vodafone’s main competitor. With a 35% market share, this operator stands out for:

• Competitive plans, often cheaper than Vodafone’s
• Extensive 4G coverage, including in rural areas
• Special offers for expatriates, including unlimited international calls to certain countries

3. PLUS Communication: The Dynamic Challenger

Although smaller, with approximately 17% market share, PLUS Communication stands out for its innovative approach:

• Flexible plans allowing customization of your package
• Attractive loyalty policy with regular bonuses
• Customer service known for its responsiveness

To choose the operator that best suits you, consider not only prices but also network quality in your area of residence and the international options offered. Don’t hesitate to ask other expatriates for advice or consult online forums dedicated to life in Albania.

Home Internet: Stay Connected in All Circumstances

For a stable and fast connection at your Albanian home, several options are available:

1. ADSL and Fiber Optic: The Fixed Solution

The main fixed internet service providers in Albania are ALBtelecom (now integrated into One Telecommunications) and Abcom. Fiber optic is available in 80% of urban areas, offering speeds up to 1 Gbps. In areas not covered by fiber, ADSL remains a viable alternative with speeds reaching up to 24 Mbps.

2. Mobile Internet: Flexibility Above All

If you prefer a more flexible solution or if you reside in an area not covered by fixed internet, 4G/5G data plans from mobile operators are an excellent alternative. Vodafone Albania and One Telecommunications offer 4G/5G routers to create a home Wi-Fi network.

3. Satellite Internet: For Remote Areas

For expatriates living in remote regions, satellite internet may be the only viable option. Although more expensive and subject to higher latency, this solution ensures coverage across the entire Albanian territory.

Whatever option you choose, make sure to verify the connection quality before committing. Most providers offer trial periods—take advantage of them to test the service under real conditions.

Communication Apps: Which Tools to Prioritize in Albania?

Unlike some countries that restrict access to certain applications, Albania imposes no limitations on online communication tools. You can therefore freely use your favorite apps to stay in touch with your loved ones. Here’s an overview of the most popular tools among expatriates in Albania:

1. WhatsApp: The Communication Swiss Army Knife

WhatsApp remains the most used messaging app in Albania, as in many European countries. It offers:

• Quality voice and video calls
• Sending text messages, photos, and videos
• The ability to create groups, ideal for communicating with multiple loved ones simultaneously

2. Skype: The Veteran Still Relevant

Although it has lost ground to newer competitors, Skype remains appreciated for:

• Its group video calls, allowing up to 50 participants
• The ability to call international landlines and mobiles at advantageous rates
• Its familiar interface, particularly appreciated by long-time users

3. Zoom: The Premier Video Conferencing Tool

Popularized during the COVID-19 pandemic, Zoom has established itself as a reference for group video calls. Its strengths:

• Superior video quality, even with an average connection
• Advanced features like screen sharing or virtual backgrounds
• The ability to schedule recurring meetings, ideal for regular family gatherings

4. Signal: For Secure Communications

If confidentiality is your priority, Signal is the app to choose. It offers:

• End-to-end encryption for all types of communication
• Advanced security features, like self-destructing messages
• A simple and intuitive interface

Remember that the quality of your communications will largely depend on your internet connection. Make sure you have a sufficient data plan or a stable Wi-Fi connection to fully enjoy these apps.

Tips for Optimizing Your Communications from Albania

To make the most of the communication tools available in Albania, here are some practical tips:

1. Prioritize Wi-Fi for Video Calls

Although 4G is widely available in Albania, using Wi-Fi for your video calls will help you save your data plan. Many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces now offer free Wi-Fi. Don’t hesitate to ask for the password when you’re out.

2. Use Noise Reduction Apps

Albania can be a noisy country, especially in large cities. To improve your call quality, consider using noise reduction apps like Krisp or RNNoise. These tools effectively filter background noise, ensuring better clarity in your conversations.

3. Consider the Time Difference

Albania is in the CET time zone (UTC+1), with daylight saving time. Always check the time difference with your loved ones’ country before calling them. Apps like World Clock or Time Buddy can help you easily manage different time zones.

4. Invest in a Good Headset-Microphone

A quality headset-microphone can significantly improve your communications. Choose a model with active noise cancellation if you live in a noisy environment. Brands like Jabra, Sony, or Bose offer excellent options for all budgets.

5. Create a Communication Routine

Establish a regular schedule for your calls with loved ones. This could be a weekly call on Sunday evening or a quick daily check-in by message. This routine will help maintain strong bonds despite the distance.

Security and Privacy: Stay Vigilant Online

Although Albania offers great freedom in online communication, it’s important to remain vigilant to protect your privacy and personal data.

1. Use a VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) will allow you to secure your connections, particularly when using public Wi-Fi networks. Services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN offer excellent protection and are easily configurable on all your devices.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

For all your communication apps and important online accounts, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This additional security measure will make your accounts much harder to hack.

3. Regularly Update Your Apps

Security updates are crucial for protecting your data. Configure your devices to update automatically, or make a habit of regularly checking for available updates.

4. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi Networks

Avoid performing sensitive transactions (banking, professional) on public Wi-Fi networks. If you absolutely must, make sure to use a VPN.

5. Educate Yourself on Cybersecurity

The threat of cyberattacks is real, even in Albania. Inform yourself about cybersecurity best practices. Online resources like Cybrary or the ANSSI MOOC offer excellent free training on the subject.

By following these tips, you can safely enjoy the many communication possibilities offered by Albania while preserving your online security.

Conclusion: Albania, A Connected Country Open to the World

Albania has made remarkable progress in telecommunications in recent years. Today, expatriates and long-term travelers can benefit from a modern and efficient infrastructure to stay in touch with their loved ones, wherever they are in the world.

With extensive 4G coverage, the progressive deployment of 5G, and a wide range of options for fixed and mobile internet, Albania offers all the necessary conditions for smooth and quality communication. The country’s main operators offer plans tailored to expatriates’ needs, often including advantageous options for international communications.

Moreover, the absence of restrictions on online communication apps allows free use of the most popular tools such as WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom, or Signal. This freedom, combined with quality infrastructure, makes Albania a particularly welcoming country for expatriates concerned with maintaining close ties with their home country.

However, as everywhere else, it’s important to remain vigilant about online security. By adopting good practices and using appropriate tools, you can fully enjoy the communication possibilities offered by Albania while preserving your privacy and personal data.

Whether you’re a long-term expatriate or considering moving to Albania, you can be reassured: staying in touch with your loved ones will not be a challenge. On the contrary, it’s an opportunity to discover new ways of communicating and sharing your Albanian experience with those dear to you.