An Albanian police certificate is officially called the certificate of judicial status (certifikatë e gjendjes gjyqësore, commonly dëshmi penaliteti); e-Albania's English name for it is "Judicial Records Certificate". It shows whether you have a criminal record in Albania. Albanian citizens can request it online on e-Albania: it's free, it's issued with an electronic seal, and e-Albania states that the e-sealed document has the same legal value as a paper one with a wet stamp.
Who this service is for
- You're applying for a UK visa or a job that requires a criminal record certificate.
- You need it for residence, citizenship, a licence or a job abroad.
- You're not sure which version the employer or the Home Office will accept.
What's included
- Making the request on e-Albania for the certificate you need.
- Following it until the document is ready.
- Guidance on using it abroad: apostille and translation, depending on the authority.
How it works
- Choose the service and pay online.
- Tell us on WhatsApp who asked for the certificate and for what.
- We follow the request and tell you when the document is ready.
UK visas and jobs: what to know
- For a Skilled Worker visa, GOV.UK asks for a criminal record certificate only for certain jobs (education, healthcare, therapy and social services), from the countries you've lived in, depending on your age and how long you stayed.
- Official sources don't all say the same thing. GOV.UK guidance (last updated January 2025) still describes a paper application at Albanian post offices, while the Albanian Embassy in London points people to e-Albania. Our guide on how to get an Albanian police certificate explains the difference. When in doubt, ask whoever requested the certificate which version they accept.
- e-Albania states that the online certificate is valid for 3 months, so don't request it too early.
The online certificate is free, and the guide shows you how to request it yourself. With us, you pay for the help and the follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Does it need an apostille?
It depends on the authority. Ask them which format they accept, and we'll tell you the route for your case.
What if I change my mind?
Free cancellation within 24 hours, or at any time before work on your case has started.
Sources
- e-Albania: certificate of judicial status (dëshmi penaliteti)
- DPBSH: how to get a criminal record certificate
- GOV.UK: Skilled Worker visa, documents you must provide
- GOV.UK: criminal records checks for overseas applicants, countries A to F
- Albanian Embassy in the UK: frequently asked questions (question 9)