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State Department: Albania - Consular Information Sheet, October 7, 1992
Albania - Consular Information Sheet
October 7, 1992
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in Tirana, Albania, is located
at Rruga Labinoti 103; telephone (355) (42) 32875. Although the
U.S. Embassy in Tirana is open, routine consular assistance to U.S.
citizens in Albania is not yet available. Services are limited to
emergency assistance only. A limited appointment system for U.S.
citizenship and passport services began in January 1992.
Country Description: Albania is undergoing profound political and
economic change. Recent economic and political tensions in Albania
have led to several large demonstrations and some violence. Persons
who participate in or photograph demonstrations risk arrest.
Facilities for tourism are not highly developed, and many of the
goods and services taken for granted in other European countries are
not yet available.
Entry Requirements: The Albanian government no longer requires
visas of American citizens. A 10 dollar airport fee must be paid to
customs upon departure. Americans planning to travel to Albania can
contact for specific entry/exit requirements the Embassy of the
Republic of Albania at 1150 18th St., N.W., Washington, DC 20036,
tel. (202) 223-4942, or an Albanian mission abroad (for example, the
Albanian mission to France in Paris or the Albanian Embassy in Rome,
Italy).
Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are limited. Medicine is
in short supply. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States. Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proved to be useful. Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
traveler's hotline on (404) 332-4559.
Crime Information: Crime against tourists (robbery, mugging, and
pickpocketing) is a growing problem, especially on city streets
after dark. The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad"
is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. It provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.
Other Information: Credit cards and traveler's checks are rarely
accepted in Albania. In addition, hotel accommodations are very
limited, and even confirmed reservations are sometimes not honored.
Drug Penalties: Penalties for possession, use, and dealing of
illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Adoption Information: On March 19, 1992, the Albanian government
suspended the adoption process until further notice. The Albanian
government intends to draft new legislation governing the
international adoption process.
Registration: Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain
updated information on travel and security within the country.
No. 92-001
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