Italy continues to be the main destination for Albanian migration, with more than half a million people of Albanian origin currently living in the country. Recent statistics from European and national institutions confirm that the Albanian community remains one of the most important immigrant populations in Italy, both economically and socially.
According to data published by Eurostat and various migration reports, around 557,000 people born in Albania currently reside in Italy. Of these, approximately 416,000 still hold Albanian citizenship, while about 141,000 have already obtained Italian citizenship after years of residence and integration.
These figures place Albanians as the second-largest foreign community in Italy, after Romanians, who represent the largest immigrant group in the country.
A Community That Grew After the 1990s Migration Wave
The presence of Albanians in Italy dates back centuries through the historic Arbëreshë communities, but the modern Albanian diaspora largely emerged after the fall of communism in the early 1990s.
Thousands of Albanians crossed the Adriatic Sea seeking better economic opportunities, education, and stability. Over the following decades, this migration evolved from temporary labor movement into permanent settlement and integration within Italian society.
Today, Albanians are deeply embedded in Italy’s social and economic life. They work in sectors such as:
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
- Services and tourism
- Healthcare and entrepreneurship
Their contribution has been particularly important as Italy faces demographic decline and labor shortages, which require a steady supply of foreign workers.
Where Albanians Live in Italy
The Albanian community is spread throughout Italy, but several regions host the largest populations.
Among the main areas with high concentrations of Albanians are:
- Lombardy – the largest industrial region in Italy
- Tuscany
- Emilia-Romagna
- Piedmont
- Calabria
In Lombardy alone, around 84,000 Albanian residents are officially registered, making it one of the most significant centers of the Albanian diaspora in Europe.
These regions offer strong labor markets and economic opportunities, which have attracted Albanian migrants for decades.
Strong Economic and Social Ties Between Albania and Italy
Migration has also strengthened the relationship between Albania and Italy beyond economics. The two countries share intense cultural, family, and business connections, facilitated by geographic proximity and historical ties.
Remittances sent by Albanians living in Italy have played a crucial role in Albania’s economic development, helping families, supporting investments, and stimulating local economies.
Moreover, bilateral agreements between the two countries are increasingly addressing diaspora issues. One important example is the Italy–Albania pension agreement, which allows workers to combine their contributions in both countries so they can qualify for retirement benefits. The deal benefits around 500,000 Albanians living and working in Italy.
A Key Diaspora for the Future of Albania
For Albania, the diaspora in Italy represents more than migration statistics. It is a community that:
- maintains strong cultural identity
- invests in Albania’s economy
- acts as a bridge between the Balkans and Western Europe
Many Albanians who have built careers in Italy are also increasingly active in business, politics, academia, and culture, strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
As migration patterns continue to evolve, the Albanian community in Italy remains one of the most influential diasporas shaping Albania’s global presence and future development.