Albania-Italy social security pact benefits hundreds of thousands

Tirana, July 7, 2024 - Albania and Italy have officially enacted a significant bilateral agreement affecting hundreds of thousands of Albanians residing in Italy. The accord, detailed in Italy's official gazette, extends comprehensive social security benefits to an estimated 500,000 Albanians living across the border.

Under this arrangement, Albanians in Italy will now access mandatory social security provisions covering disability, elderly care, and family pensions for employed individuals. Additionally, self-employed workers like artisans, traders, and farmers will benefit from tailored support. The agreement also includes provisions for sickness benefits, encompassing conditions like tuberculosis and maternity, alongside unemployment coverage.

Back in Albania, the agreement focuses on pensions for the elderly, disability benefits, and family pensions, along with similar health and unemployment benefits.

Effective immediately, Albanians nearing retirement in Italy must apply to the Italian Social Insurance Institute, facilitating the possibility of receiving dual pensions based on their work history and contributions in both countries. Those who retired prior to 2024 are also eligible to apply under these new terms.

Albania has thus far concluded similar agreements with 17 other countries, with recent negotiations notably centered on discussions with the Greek government.