Great video with sound advice. Here is a tip for those thinking of long term living in Albania or any country, go there as a long holiday first , 2 or 3 weeks and see what you think. Attitude is not latitude. Give the place a try and give yourself a try. You may be surprised by what and who you discover.
Cost/budget is also lifestyle dependent. There is ways to live here on the super cheap and also the super expensive. The cost of living here has gone up in the past 3 years just like every other place in the world. It's all about the pros and cons of the city, country etc. Also overall what type of life do you want to have will effect your monthly budget. Single guy looking to meet a lady well you will be spending more money per month as you will need to go out and mingle. If you live the hermit lifestyle and keep to yourself then you can keep the budget very low. Also knowing what area to live in the city will play into your rental cost. The more outside the center the more you get for your money. However, too far out of the center while cheaper will require a bus, a taxi to get around which is time and money. People need to ask themselves What kind of lifestyle do I want to have in Albania? Then build from there. Come, visit then decide. Albania is not right for everyone.
Dan , Thank you for everything ! Not only do you break down cost of living outside of the states better then anyone. I was over whelmed by how nice and down to earth you both are. Im proud to call you friend. Safe travels !! Tell Qiang April really enjoyed talking to her and wished you two stayed longer.
Great video! Thanks for the follow up, as well as all of your prep videos prior to moving. We are working on securing airline tickets. For the 3 of us, doing Premium Economy, we are looking around $5,000 - 6,000 total. Just for reference for your viewers. That is for round-trip flights to Tirana in January and back to US in May for a quick visit.
ILWU Longshoreman here. Teamsters are Awesome! 43 years on the waterfront, and I'm out. Great pension and we're looking at moving to Spain. But your vids are making us look to Albania. Looking to slow travel, 90 in Schengen, and doing the shuffle.
I also lived in Truckee/Tahoe for 50 (!) yrs mostly. I and most of those friends have moved away, far from the madding crowds. Kathleen and I. are flying over to Albania on a serious look see for the month of February. Thanks for utubing, great info.
Great video! I think you’re doing a great job telling people what to really expect if they are planning on moving here. You can really create a very affordable budget or a very expensive one. What I love is that you can have a good life either way.
And let's not forget some states also have personal property tax on your vehicles. And sales tax on used items that someone else also paid sales tax on from when they first purchased it. So yes, it all adds up to about 50% of your income when all is said and done.
Hey Patrick. Just touching on a point you made here about safety and how safe your neighbour feels walking around. Before we went to Albania a few weeks ago, we bought money belts, little chains for wallets, etc - the kind of stuff it's probably wise to have if your going to a lot of places in Europe. I can honestly, say, hand on heart, not once did I feel remotely threatened or in any way fearful that we might be robbed, pickpocketed or assaulted. Not once the whole time we were in Albania. In fact, we commented more than once that we felt safer and more at ease walking around Tirana than we would walking through our local town (in England) on a Friday night, or walking around London at any time (I know so many people who have had their cellphones snatched in London, for instance). I'd go as far to say that we found Albania as a whole to be almost uniquely unthreatening. Obviously, bad stuff does happen to people, but we never felt unsafe at all.
Helpful vid, thanks. What cruise line did you take from FL to Albania? I'm not finding anything. That would have made for an interesting video itself - I haven't heard of anyone else doing that.
Norwegian cruise line. Look up repositioning cruises. If you go to my play list or go back to my older videos on how i got here you will see it there. 12 day cruise ended in italy. flew into albania from there.
Good video covering the logistics of settling down in Albania, or basically anywhere else for that matter. Nice teaser on using your own due diligence in using a lawyer to get answers to questions regarding taxes. Kept waiting for you to spill the beans, but you never did. Thought you were comical holding out the carrot. Anyway, good video on preparation and follow through.
im sorry. im afraid id miss saying something. Then someone might be mad and say i give bad info. And its not just for Albania. Im pleading with people where ever you go...see a lawyer. Hope i said this right. Thank you for your comment and watching !
Great videos, thanks. It might be time to be thinking about a wireless lavalier mic to clip on your shirt, not so much for the talking head videos like this but when your out walking you tend to point and look away from the camera/mic.
You read my mind !!! yes when i look the other way my voice drops off. mic for shirl or reverse camera angle to keep mouth pointed at mic. Great pickup !...
Paddy you are on fire.. loved the "how many hands are in your pocket" comment... even when you get an electric car, they created a tax for that' as well to get some back.
Hi ! i never owned a electric car i didn't know that. I forgot to mention alcohol tax...Buy a beer, tax on it. Smokers ? heavy tax on a pack. Thank you for that !
@@patrickoverseas You mentioned sales tax in CA as 7.?%. Where I lived, near San Francisco, it was closer to 9-9.5%. There are taxes on taxes in the US.
Got that from google for California sells tax 7.25... san fran. 9-9.5 ? Run ! Get out...save yourself!!! ok... I looked up the city of San Fransisco..says extra sales tax for frisco to go to city general fund on top of the 7,25 of the state. Things just keep getting better over there. Run ! save your selves
@@patrickoverseas Working on it. I had a great job there. But it ended last year and working on traveling around the world. I've been to France, Spain, Portugal, Germany and Colombia since. Looking to slow travel starting at the end of the year. Renting my condo out and will probably sell in November.
As we Albanians say; “Stretch your legs within the bed covers” meaning? Everyone spends as they see it economic but some go past that. And if “their feet get cold” they loose money. Glad you are healthy and safe Patrick!
Thank you! Great information. Do you own a car? Is there public transportation in Tirana? Is Tirana/Albania accessible by wheelchair? Is there train travel to other countries?
no i dont own a car. Yes buses are cheap here, no on the trains to other counties yet. But they are building a system for inter country. Soon for out side of countries. Wheel chair..i see some. That would be tough. Narrow aisles in stores.
Patrick, thanks for all your wonderful videos. We will be in Albania next year & trying to get answers now (while still in the US) about the 183 day rule regarding owing Albanian taxes if you stay longer than that in a calendar year. We realize we can stay one year visa free but we can't seem to find any info online about whether the 183 day rule would apply to us as retirees with no "earned" income. We love your great reminder that you are not giving actual advice & we totally respect that but can you point us in the right direction where we can research this issue while we are still in the states? Thanks so much.
ohhh boy...here comes the uproar. First let me say why i hesitate. I just got off the phone with my lawyer here to ask him that. I like helping. But i worry peeps will ask me...now ask your lawyer this, now ask your lawyer that, and i cant. Hes trying to make a living and has helped me for free so far and i cant burn that bridge. its not you jcamp...i worry others watching and asking me to ask lawyer for free info. I dont blame them but i just cant. Hope i explained that right. Now for the uproar. I asked my lawyer, as well as others that have been here much longer. Even a few years here. I know if you google it it says so....drum roll...lawyer, peeps here long term...that 183 day is fake...not true. Dont shoot the messenger plz peeps. Also im not advising . Just saying what i was told . Please do you own due diligence
@@patrickoverseas totally understand your concerns Patrick & thank you so much for responding 🥰. My hubby & I appreciate your honesty & you have such a wonderful personality that makes us smile; we feel like we know you already & we hope to meet up one day. We will be staying in Vlore in May 2025 & Pogradec from June-Aug & then who knows? 😊 Thanks again, 🥰 Judy & Jim Campbell
@@jcampbells i hope we meet ! Im almost 100% positive we will be living to Pogradec by the end of the year. Thank you for understanding. on the question .I hope i said that right. I dont want to insult anyone . And thank you for your kind words!
Great video! As a new subscriber, do you have any videos of how your wife is handling the transition? I've been retired for a few years now with a pension, and trying to convince my wife that living overseas is a way better option than staying in the US.
Thanks for this great video Patrick. I will go back and look at the early videos for prepping. Is the travel visa for 90 days or a year? You mentioned 90 days in this video. I checked the real estate site. I see great deals there. Thanks.
yes once we get to 73 and have to take RMD... still need to pay US taxes but RMD is more than we need, so thinking to live great for less and invest the remainder of our RMD past expenses internationally... I think our combined social security should be enough for Albania expenses... and most of the RMD can increase our lifestyle where we decide to live. what is left can be used for travel and increasing our financial security. Why spend the money paying US prices.
Yeah, Florida’s sales tax is about what you said California’s is. Each county adds their own little bit to the State’s tax rate. It’s 7.5% where I live. And then, as you said, there’s property taxes, etc. Then car insurance, home insurance, and health insurance takes what little money is left. Home insurance especially is rising exponentially here for the last couple of years. Car insurance is not far behind! My family has lived here for at least five generations now, but it’s slowly becoming impossible to stay here. I am looking for alternatives for myself and possibly even my now-grown children to have a more affordable living situation. This is simply not sustainable for most people.
Question please:::: is WiFi available in many of the coffee shops .. and. Is it free in these cafes and coffee shops? Also, thank you for the great content.
Hi ! yes i simply ask for they password and have never been turned down. Many have their password written some where on the wall. I just always run my V.P.N. with it.
Great, informative video. It may not be something you'd care to share, but I'm curious what a rough grand total looked like for you guys to do the big move. I understand if you don't wish to share. I love and look forward to your videos. ❤
hmmmm $3200 on cruise to get here on cruise. $400 on airbnb...first and last month and cleaning deposit on rental...not counting pots and pans, towels and such just under $4000 to get rental started.
Do you know how basic pension income is taxed in Albania? On a pension of say £37k a year (4,361,930.00 Lek), how much tax would I pay? Also when I die, what is the tax liability for my Son? I know the obvious response is 'ask an accountant' but I'm not quite at that stage yet.......
Hi...i dont mean to be a downer. But i stay away from talking taxes or visa here. There is so much bad info out there. And you can look things up from great sites that is just wrong ! What i will tell you after you visit a lawyer and accountant here. You will have a big smile on your face. Be careful listening to online peeps. Some get off on trying to scare peeps.
Nice to see price estimates in the comments. Travel, vacation has costs. So, if you are paying for a year's worth of lease, how does the 3 month interruption factor in, if you go to a different region? I may be combining videos.
I cant say. Reason why ,what's best for me you may hate. But i can tell you this. If its a well liked area. Being just one or 2 streets off that you can save some money by making a 5 min walk. in Tirana i love being near the bazaar and its a short walk to the mall, the castle., and the square. But that's just me.
You mean taxes? I have touched on it. I hope this comes across right. I mean no disrespect to anyone. When it comes to taxes i beg people to ask a Albanian lawyer. Or accountant. I just feel strongly not to listen to a youtuber or worse yet someone who comments on someone's page about taxes. But i will tell you this. You will better after you speak with them. I hope that makes sense. I went to a lawyers office the 2nd day after i got here.
Hi, new today. Saw you on Vagabond Awake channel. I also saw The Nomad Capitalist do a nice video on Albania. Since its over 50% Muslim, is it safe and is it noisy?? The noise is the biggest issue I have had with traveling in Muslim areas
Very safe. Im catholic. Everyone gets along here. I always ask...how did Albania get it so right, and the world get it so wrong? A church can be next to a mosque and no problem.
They do have the call to prayer. But ive never been woken up by one . Not even sure if i hear one late at night. Also im catholic . And its fascinating to me a church and mosque on same street no trouble at all here. There are many explanations to this. One of them was all religion was out lawed for so long. People worshiped while hiding. So their happy to be able to pray again. All good here.
your info vids have been invaluable..? on getting a lawyer ..did you just start walking the streets and asking people, are you a lawyer do you speak english? okay, that’s humour not snark 😎 hope your lake move is going smoothly
Can you give a good recommendation for a lawyer and accountant in Albania that is reasonable priced for ex-pats? I am looking at getting the digital nomad visa and moving to Albania to do e-commerce from the USA. The issue us Americans have is our taxation system is citizenship based and we don't have a tax treaty with Albania. I do know at least we are on the hook to pay social security taxes to both countries but it seems both USA and Albania have tax credits to avoid double taxation without a treaty, it just isn't clearly defined in the treaty. However I am hopeful that Albania will have a tax agreement with the USA and once that happens more Americans will move and if they join the EU more ex-pats will flood there. Good to get in on the ground floor. That's why I'm trying to get to Albania since I see it as the future. I'm a young guy not a retiree.
Patrick im really confused about the taxes we would have to pay in Albania on pensions and social security etc from the U.S., we've looked at all videos and online internet information, do you have a point of contact who can answer our questions? Is there an Expat for Americans web site or Facebook page? We are planning on retiring beginning of 2026 when our social security kicks in. We are also from Texas!! Thanks much!
There is much confusion on taxes here. I get where it comes from. I dont want to add to it. So i say get a lawyer once you get here. Or better yet. Google Tirana visa lawyers now before you come . And ask questions. They have web sites to learn from Aswell.
Or Please do this. I just dont want to start a argument. Google Tirana visa lawyers and ask them. email them. Trust me, its good news. There's miss leading stuff online. Email a lawyer from where you are. Email 2 or 3...Don't take someone's word for it. It will put a smile on your face.
@@patrickoverseas appreciate your videos as we are exploring our options on retiring overseas. but im going to contact a lawyer like you said, just to get the facts correct. Thanks again!!!
No taxes on U.S. Social Security, U.S. private company pensions or 401 K withdrawals. But Uncle Sam will and MUST take his cut regardless of where you live. You have to file U.S. taxes same as if you were in the country. European countries pay NO TAX on pensions. I am jealous. But check with a lawyer because laws can change. Portugal's, Italy's and Spain's just did. Fifteen percent flat tax on income earned within Albania, tons of perks and loopholes for businesses. Not sure about income earned outside Albania such as working in Albania while being a digital nomad. They are making Albania super duper competitive and I am happy they are developing their beautiful country.
Question> if on a USA passport and one leaves after spending one year in Albania , can you return again after a few days using a British passport ( I have both USA & UK) , spend their (UK) 90 day limit, leave again for a couple of days and then return using one’s USA passport ? 🤔
i only know of U.S. passport. 1 year in. 90 days out then return. Not 1 day and return like you can in other countries. Trying to use 2 passports i could not tell you.
Hi Patrick. very helpful videos. I paid total 296usd to fly from tampa to jfk to paris on 1120. Stay in paris 1 week then to tirana on 11/27. I tried using alessi and realestateal when I was there in march. I'll try the illyrian site as I need an apt to stay in tirana. I tried using the site but can't seem to bring up any results. can you help with it ? Thanks Mario
phone for office ...+355694535107 .ask for julian his english is real good,..i can give you his personal number. but not here on youtube. its his request.. email me for his personal number roadway12345@yahoo.com
Hello Patrick, planning to visit later this year. Can I ask what city you are in? Also do you have Julian's email address, your realtor?. I'm not an I.T. guy and having issues emailing him from the link on their website.
For now ( i may move ) im in Tirana. Julians business email website is... www.illyrianhome.al ...his personal email i dont know. if you want his number plz email me..i will give it to you there for his whatsapp number. if you dont have whatsapp get it , you will need it. its a free down load to phone and text for free world wide.
I will warn you I had horrible experience with FedEx trying to get things sent to Albania. I ended up having to have it sent by DHL and no problems at all.
Hiya Patrick! So glad to have found your channel. With the increase in people vacationing and expats moving to Albania, the rental amounts seem to be increasing over time. Do you think it might be a good time for us to consider purchasing? Are townhouses or condos a thing there? Looking at Vlore. Would love your opinion. Thanks!
❤ Patrick, we are leaving California on Oct. 1, heading out in your direction. My son Dwayne Prejean just launched his first 2 videos on TH-cam named “Prejean with a passport”. You may want to follow us as we make our EXIT ! We have been followers since you and April left Texas. We enjoy every one of your videos, sometimes viewing x2. Stay safe.
why cant i find a SINGLE facebook group for a cycling club, motorcycles, car, body building/fitness etc in albania???!? also it seems theres no motorcycles/bicycles for sale on facebook market place in Vlore or tirana?? what the heck? do albanians use something other than facebook? google doesnt have anything or youtube either on these hobbies
Then i put what i have gotten in storage. Visit another country or two for 3 months and come back for another year. Or if i buy, i just leave my home for a few months then come back. Im also exploring ways to get a 5 year visa, then go for residency so i never HAVE to leave. But i also do very much want to travel.
I’m tuning into your channel cause I’m watching you now on vagabond awake and I’m very excited about what I can learn from you. We are in Miami Florida and the cost of living is past the point of absurd I’m in my mid-50s and I don’t want to get crushed by the inflation that only looks like it’s going to keep getting worse here so now I’m looking at finishing the last chapter of my life in a beautiful comfortable and affordable country but it has to have Pickleball because that’s my only addiction in life😄 any suggestions?
![PASULOL รามเกียรติ์ ตอนที่ 4 นนทกพบรัก [Ramakien Ep.4: Nonthok in love]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/tMUQgmZzf_A/mqdefault.jpg)
Came here after watching your interview with Dan. Quite informative.
Dan is awesome and very down to earth. thanks for being here
Seriously starting to plan to move to Albania, thanks to your videos.
I hope you love it as much as i do. Each city has different vibe. Mountains, Too beautiful beaches.
Great video with sound advice. Here is a tip for those thinking of long term living in Albania or any country, go there as a long holiday first , 2 or 3 weeks and see what you think. Attitude is not latitude. Give the place a try and give yourself a try. You may be surprised by what and who you discover.
Great advice !
Patrick which city do you live there?
@@Alex-vg3wz Tirana for now. looking likke were moving to the city of Pogradec
@@ShannonThorne-b7y true that !
@@Alex-vg3wz I'm in tirana. But will hopefully move to Pogradec soon
Thanks for the advice I appreciate it
Hi Leon ! thanks.
Cost/budget is also lifestyle dependent. There is ways to live here on the super cheap and also the super expensive. The cost of living here has gone up in the past 3 years just like every other place in the world. It's all about the pros and cons of the city, country etc. Also overall what type of life do you want to have will effect your monthly budget. Single guy looking to meet a lady well you will be spending more money per month as you will need to go out and mingle. If you live the hermit lifestyle and keep to yourself then you can keep the budget very low. Also knowing what area to live in the city will play into your rental cost. The more outside the center the more you get for your money. However, too far out of the center while cheaper will require a bus, a taxi to get around which is time and money.
People need to ask themselves What kind of lifestyle do I want to have in Albania? Then build from there. Come, visit then decide. Albania is not right for everyone.
Thanks Chris ! Perfectly said
Very useful information Patrick. Thanks for spending your time and energy helping people. :-) Say hi to April for us. Dan and Qiang.
Dan , Thank you for everything ! Not only do you break down cost of living outside of the states better then anyone. I was over whelmed by how nice and down to earth you both are. Im proud to call you friend. Safe travels !! Tell Qiang April really enjoyed talking to her and wished you two stayed longer.
Thank you Patrick. This is incredible information and advice.
Thank you sir !
Great video! Thanks for the follow up, as well as all of your prep videos prior to moving. We are working on securing airline tickets. For the 3 of us, doing Premium Economy, we are looking around $5,000 - 6,000 total. Just for reference for your viewers. That is for round-trip flights to Tirana in January and back to US in May for a quick visit.
thank you for sharing price. helps others, i would do premium aswell,,more leg room. Thats a long flight
Just stumbled onto your channel after watching the interview with Dan. Going back to watch your earlier stuff. Thanks!!
Thank you so much joe! Hope you are well.
❤ Patrick, thank you for taking your time with all of this very informative information ! Stay safe
thank you so much peggy. glad your here !
Hello Patrick.
Im from Fort Worth also. Looking to leave the USA also. Thanks for the info.
I will always miss fort worth. But we are really happy here
ILWU Longshoreman here. Teamsters are Awesome! 43 years on the waterfront, and I'm out. Great pension and we're looking at moving to Spain. But your vids are making us look to Albania. Looking to slow travel, 90 in Schengen, and doing the shuffle.
Hi ! Longshoreman is Great ! Congrats on retirement. Its our time now. Enjoy the world. Thank you so much for watching !
Thank you SO much for all this valuable information.
Any time! Thank you for watching
So grateful for your channel and these informative inspiring videos. Thanks, Scott.
Thank you scott, for being part of it.
Thanks for the info on the realtor!
my pleasure. a honest man
I just because one of your subscribers.Amazing video 👍
Thank you so much! Plz come along on our journey !
Great info, appreciate the prep advise... we're coming from Dallas in Jan '26 and will be using a lot of your tips... will owe you a raki...THX.
i will hold you to that raki ! look forward to meeting you
I also lived in Truckee/Tahoe for 50 (!) yrs mostly. I and most of those friends have moved away, far from the madding crowds. Kathleen and I. are flying over to Albania on a serious look see for the month of February. Thanks for utubing, great info.
safe travels ! Good for you !
Awesome! Thanks for the straight talk!
thank you for watching !
First-time viewer here. Saw you on Dan's YT channel. Excellent commentary/content. Like & subscribed! Go Cowboys
You so much ! Glad your here ! Yes Dan is awesome. COWBOYS !
Same.
Go Saints
@@BilltheTulaneGuy Hi Bill. And Thank you !
Great video. Thank you. We'll be watching.
Hi ! thank you! glad your here.
Great advice Patrick thank you so much!!
Thank you! Doing my best
So glad I found your channel, great info.🤠
Thank you for being here !
Great video! I think you’re doing a great job telling people what to really expect if they are planning on moving here. You can really create a very affordable budget or a very expensive one. What I love is that you can have a good life either way.
Thank you !
Schwab is amazing I've used them for Thailand for 5 years 😊
yes sir. So glad i have them
Thank you. Very good information.
Thanks Tim. I just dont want to say live here for x amount of dollars. Takes some money to setup.
Thank you Patrick!!! I really appreciate your videos!!
Glad you like them!
Loving you openness you are such a great resource
i am nothing... just trying to be open book to people of Albania
@@patrickoverseas Cheers to you Sir
too you as well
Thanks for the info Sir. I'm wondering if I could bring two German Shepherds..
Hey Jersey. I know their pet friendly. i HEARD its easy, but i never brought a pet.
Thanks for the information
thank you for watching David
You are SO right about how much we Americans pay out in indirect taxes. We are nickel and dimed into poverty.
Big time !
And let's not forget some states also have personal property tax on your vehicles. And sales tax on used items that someone else also paid sales tax on from when they first purchased it. So yes, it all adds up to about 50% of your income when all is said and done.
yes,,,it can be crushing
Hey Patrick. Just touching on a point you made here about safety and how safe your neighbour feels walking around. Before we went to Albania a few weeks ago, we bought money belts, little chains for wallets, etc - the kind of stuff it's probably wise to have if your going to a lot of places in Europe. I can honestly, say, hand on heart, not once did I feel remotely threatened or in any way fearful that we might be robbed, pickpocketed or assaulted. Not once the whole time we were in Albania. In fact, we commented more than once that we felt safer and more at ease walking around Tirana than we would walking through our local town (in England) on a Friday night, or walking around London at any time (I know so many people who have had their cellphones snatched in London, for instance). I'd go as far to say that we found Albania as a whole to be almost uniquely unthreatening. Obviously, bad stuff does happen to people, but we never felt unsafe at all.
Perfectly said. ive never felt unsafe. Glad you experienced Albania! Thank you comment !
Helpful vid, thanks. What cruise line did you take from FL to Albania? I'm not finding anything. That would have made for an interesting video itself - I haven't heard of anyone else doing that.
Norwegian cruise line. Look up repositioning cruises. If you go to my play list or go back to my older videos on how i got here you will see it there. 12 day cruise ended in italy. flew into albania from there.
Yes, We agree with Patrick: Repositioning cruises are great and we are taking MSC from Miami to Italy and then taking the ferry to Albania.
There you go ! So your taking a vacation , getting to you life vacation. Awesome !
Trail blazer...we're right behind you currently selling it all for an October 1 launch. Thank you!
thank you for your comment you are great
Good video covering the logistics of settling down in Albania, or basically anywhere else for that matter. Nice teaser on using your own due diligence in using a lawyer to get answers to questions regarding taxes. Kept waiting for you to spill the beans, but you never did. Thought you were comical holding out the carrot. Anyway, good video on preparation and follow through.
im sorry. im afraid id miss saying something. Then someone might be mad and say i give bad info. And its not just for Albania. Im pleading with people where ever you go...see a lawyer. Hope i said this right. Thank you for your comment and watching !
What you said was fine. Don't worry.
Sounds good!
Hi Dean. thank you
Good advice about seeing a lawyer . I my add maybe also seeing an accountant to help people with tax in different countries.
as much info as you can. yes sir
Great videos, thanks. It might be time to be thinking about a wireless lavalier mic to clip on your shirt, not so much for the talking head videos like this but when your out walking you tend to point and look away from the camera/mic.
You read my mind !!! yes when i look the other way my voice drops off. mic for shirl or reverse camera angle to keep mouth pointed at mic. Great pickup !...
Paddy you are on fire.. loved the "how many hands are in your pocket" comment... even when you get an electric car, they created a tax for that' as well to get some back.
Hi ! i never owned a electric car i didn't know that. I forgot to mention alcohol tax...Buy a beer, tax on it. Smokers ? heavy tax on a pack. Thank you for that !
@@patrickoverseas You mentioned sales tax in CA as 7.?%. Where I lived, near San Francisco, it was closer to 9-9.5%.
There are taxes on taxes in the US.
Got that from google for California sells tax 7.25... san fran. 9-9.5 ? Run ! Get out...save yourself!!! ok... I looked up the city of San Fransisco..says extra sales tax for frisco to go to city general fund on top of the 7,25 of the state. Things just keep getting better over there. Run ! save your selves
@@patrickoverseas Working on it. I had a great job there. But it ended last year and working on traveling around the world. I've been to France, Spain, Portugal, Germany and Colombia since. Looking to slow travel starting at the end of the year. Renting my condo out and will probably sell in November.
@@MotivatedActionGroup good for you buddy ! Safe travels !
As we Albanians say; “Stretch your legs within the bed covers” meaning? Everyone spends as they see it economic but some go past that. And if “their feet get cold” they loose money.
Glad you are healthy and safe Patrick!
tonyz !! Doing well. Hope you are too !
@@patrickoverseas how can we get in touch once I am in Tirana? It would be a pleasure to meet you guys.
Thank you! Great information. Do you own a car? Is there public transportation in Tirana? Is Tirana/Albania accessible by wheelchair? Is there train travel to other countries?
no i dont own a car. Yes buses are cheap here, no on the trains to other counties yet. But they are building a system for inter country. Soon for out side of countries. Wheel chair..i see some. That would be tough. Narrow aisles in stores.
@@patrickoverseas Thank you
Patrick, thanks for all your wonderful videos. We will be in Albania next year & trying to get answers now (while still in the US) about the 183 day rule regarding owing Albanian taxes if you stay longer than that in a calendar year. We realize we can stay one year visa free but we can't seem to find any info online about whether the 183 day rule would apply to us as retirees with no "earned" income. We love your great reminder that you are not giving actual advice & we totally respect that but can you point us in the right direction where we can research this issue while we are still in the states? Thanks so much.
ohhh boy...here comes the uproar. First let me say why i hesitate. I just got off the phone with my lawyer here to ask him that. I like helping. But i worry peeps will ask me...now ask your lawyer this, now ask your lawyer that, and i cant. Hes trying to make a living and has helped me for free so far and i cant burn that bridge. its not you jcamp...i worry others watching and asking me to ask lawyer for free info. I dont blame them but i just cant. Hope i explained that right. Now for the uproar. I asked my lawyer, as well as others that have been here much longer. Even a few years here. I know if you google it it says so....drum roll...lawyer, peeps here long term...that 183 day is fake...not true. Dont shoot the messenger plz peeps. Also im not advising . Just saying what i was told . Please do you own due diligence
@@patrickoverseas totally understand your concerns Patrick & thank you so much for responding 🥰. My hubby & I appreciate your honesty & you have such a wonderful personality that makes us smile; we feel like we know you already & we hope to meet up one day. We will be staying in Vlore in May 2025 & Pogradec from June-Aug & then who knows? 😊 Thanks again, 🥰 Judy & Jim Campbell
@@jcampbells i hope we meet ! Im almost 100% positive we will be living to Pogradec by the end of the year. Thank you for understanding. on the question .I hope i said that right. I dont want to insult anyone . And thank you for your kind words!
Originally planning on coming in October now looks like early September hope to meet you when I get there. 😊
hope you do !
Great video! As a new subscriber, do you have any videos of how your wife is handling the transition? I've been retired for a few years now with a pension, and trying to convince my wife that living overseas is a way better option than staying in the US.
She's very happy. You won't see her here. She hates cameras. Always has. She Asked me to keep her out...happy wife happy life..so I don't push it
Thank you so much for subscribing 😊
I live in Florida, and add over 6800 dollars a year in home insurance
yes i was going to mention home ins, but was trying to say on tax question. Home and auto, and medical is thru the roof
Thanks for this great video Patrick. I will go back and look at the early videos for prepping.
Is the travel visa for 90 days or a year? You mentioned 90 days in this video. I checked the real estate site. I see great deals there. Thanks.
u.s.a. gets visa free for 1 year then must exit for 90 days
all you need id your passport
@@patrickoverseas Very good. I am going to stay until the Spring and then go to Spain and Portugal for 90 days to walk caminos, then return.
yes once we get to 73 and have to take RMD... still need to pay US taxes but RMD is more than we need, so thinking to live great for less and invest the remainder of our RMD past expenses internationally... I think our combined social security should be enough for Albania expenses... and most of the RMD can increase our lifestyle where we decide to live. what is left can be used for travel and increasing our financial security. Why spend the money paying US prices.
perfectly said
good stuff, thank you
thank you !
Yeah, Florida’s sales tax is about what you said California’s is. Each county adds their own little bit to the State’s tax rate. It’s 7.5% where I live. And then, as you said, there’s property taxes, etc. Then car insurance, home insurance, and health insurance takes what little money is left. Home insurance especially is rising exponentially here for the last couple of years. Car insurance is not far behind! My family has lived here for at least five generations now, but it’s slowly becoming impossible to stay here. I am looking for alternatives for myself and possibly even my now-grown children to have a more affordable living situation. This is simply not sustainable for most people.
Exactly , There are options out there to move too. I feel you my friend.
Question please:::: is WiFi available in many of the coffee shops .. and. Is it free in these cafes and coffee shops? Also, thank you for the great content.
Hi ! yes i simply ask for they password and have never been turned down. Many have their password written some where on the wall. I just always run my V.P.N. with it.
@@patrickoverseas thank you so much. And yes to always VPN. Very well done!!👍🏼
Great info, thank you. One question though: how is the winter there, how's life in winter time?
depends on city, tirana mild korca lots of snow...life in the winter,,,ask me this december my friend !
Sales tax in most cities in LA County CA is 10.25%
friggen crazy...glad im out
Sales tax is over 10% here in Cook County Illinois and property taxes are insane
Its crushing the average people
Love your Albanian flag teeshirt.
That flag is so cool!
Is it necessary to learn Albanian to do business and have a social life there? Is learning Italian useful as well?
Most speak english. especially people 35 years old and younger. And yes they speak italian well.
Thanks
i hope i said that right. Id go near square,,,but thats me
Hey Patrick! My wife and I are in Tirana! Let’s grab a coffee! We’re from DfW and have been here a few months.
Where you at ?
if you can email me...roadway12345@yahoo,com
@@patrickoverseas sent you an email
I would have never thought about Albania. What city do you live in ?
Hi ! Were currently in Tirana. But we hope to be moving to the city of Pogradec soon.
Do they have second hand stores where one could buy used items?
yes...everywhere
Great, informative video. It may not be something you'd care to share, but I'm curious what a rough grand total looked like for you guys to do the big move. I understand if you don't wish to share. I love and look forward to your videos. ❤
hmmmm $3200 on cruise to get here on cruise. $400 on airbnb...first and last month and cleaning deposit on rental...not counting pots and pans, towels and such just under $4000 to get rental started.
i forgot to mention i had a lot of travel miles on my discover card saved me almost $2000 on the cruise to get here.
@@patrickoverseas thank you for sharing! ❤️ That's actually not as bad as I had expected. I figured double or more your number.
@@kristalhutchings7257 great to hear..thank you for being here
Do you know how basic pension income is taxed in Albania? On a pension of say £37k a year (4,361,930.00 Lek), how much tax would I pay? Also when I die, what is the tax liability for my Son?
I know the obvious response is 'ask an accountant' but I'm not quite at that stage yet.......
Hi...i dont mean to be a downer. But i stay away from talking taxes or visa here. There is so much bad info out there. And you can look things up from great sites that is just wrong ! What i will tell you after you visit a lawyer and accountant here. You will have a big smile on your face. Be careful listening to online peeps. Some get off on trying to scare peeps.
Nice to see price estimates in the comments. Travel, vacation has costs. So, if you are paying for a year's worth of lease, how does the 3 month interruption factor in, if you go to a different region? I may be combining videos.
hmmm i dont know...sorry my friend
I have 4 cats. Are Albanian landlords okay with pets? Thanks for your videos!
Yes many pet owners here. But 4 could be hard. not sure of that. Google a few realtors here and email them Thank you for being here
I've heard you can't get away from the cigarette smoke..it's everywhere...True?
People smoke here. Cant get away from it? No...you can. Its not that bad. atleast not for us
Patrick, what are the best areas to buy an apartment in Tirana area, mot necessarily Blokku
I cant say. Reason why ,what's best for me you may hate. But i can tell you this. If its a well liked area. Being just one or 2 streets off that you can save some money by making a 5 min walk. in Tirana i love being near the bazaar and its a short walk to the mall, the castle., and the square. But that's just me.
I have had two people recommend Albania. One is Ukrainian and the other Bulgarian. I'm a Texan who is currently visiting Thailand.
Hi matt. We moved here from Fort worth. Hope your enjoying Thailand. Ive never been there but i here its awesome.
@@patrickoverseas I live in Austin. I'm headed back there tonight
@@mattlawrence7130 safe travels buddy
Welcome to Europe. Enjoy.
Thank you
can you do a video on TAVES for expats , weather your full time or less then 183 days , as i have eu passport ,
You mean taxes? I have touched on it. I hope this comes across right. I mean no disrespect to anyone. When it comes to taxes i beg people to ask a Albanian lawyer. Or accountant. I just feel strongly not to listen to a youtuber or worse yet someone who comments on someone's page about taxes. But i will tell you this. You will better after you speak with them. I hope that makes sense. I went to a lawyers office the 2nd day after i got here.
Many states charge rooms and meals tax, my state is 10%
crazy how many hands are in your pocket
Was you a independent driver
i was with the teamsters.. Mostly a hossler, then working the dock.
Hi, new today. Saw you on Vagabond Awake channel. I also saw The Nomad Capitalist do a nice video on Albania. Since its over 50% Muslim, is it safe and is it noisy?? The noise is the biggest issue I have had with traveling in Muslim areas
Very safe. Im catholic. Everyone gets along here. I always ask...how did Albania get it so right, and the world get it so wrong? A church can be next to a mosque and no problem.
@@patrickoverseas nice, how about the noise? The countries I went to the Mosques had massive load speakers to wake people up for prayers at 4am
They do have the call to prayer. But ive never been woken up by one . Not even sure if i hear one late at night. Also im catholic . And its fascinating to me a church and mosque on same street no trouble at all here. There are many explanations to this. One of them was all religion was out lawed for so long. People worshiped while hiding. So their happy to be able to pray again. All good here.
your info vids have been invaluable..? on getting a lawyer ..did you just start walking the streets and asking people, are you a lawyer do you speak english? okay, that’s humour not snark 😎 hope your lake move is going smoothly
i get the humor. Thanks for wishing well on our move. Fingers crossed .
Can you give a good recommendation for a lawyer and accountant in Albania that is reasonable priced for ex-pats? I am looking at getting the digital nomad visa and moving to Albania to do e-commerce from the USA. The issue us Americans have is our taxation system is citizenship based and we don't have a tax treaty with Albania.
I do know at least we are on the hook to pay social security taxes to both countries but it seems both USA and Albania have tax credits to avoid double taxation without a treaty, it just isn't clearly defined in the treaty. However I am hopeful that Albania will have a tax agreement with the USA and once that happens more Americans will move and if they join the EU more ex-pats will flood there. Good to get in on the ground floor. That's why I'm trying to get to Albania since I see it as the future. I'm a young guy not a retiree.
Heres one.. info@mbconsulting.al
Patrick im really confused about the taxes we would have to pay in Albania on pensions and social security etc from the U.S., we've looked at all videos and online internet information, do you have a point of contact who can answer our questions? Is there an Expat for Americans web site or Facebook page? We are planning on retiring beginning of 2026 when our social security kicks in. We are also from Texas!! Thanks much!
There is much confusion on taxes here. I get where it comes from. I dont want to add to it. So i say get a lawyer once you get here. Or better yet. Google Tirana visa lawyers now before you come . And ask questions. They have web sites to learn from Aswell.
Or Please do this. I just dont want to start a argument. Google Tirana visa lawyers and ask them. email them. Trust me, its good news. There's miss leading stuff online. Email a lawyer from where you are. Email 2 or 3...Don't take someone's word for it. It will put a smile on your face.
@@patrickoverseas appreciate your videos as we are exploring our options on retiring overseas. but im going to contact a lawyer like you said, just to get the facts correct. Thanks again!!!
No taxes on U.S. Social Security, U.S. private company pensions or 401 K withdrawals. But Uncle Sam will and MUST take his cut regardless of where you live. You have to file U.S. taxes same as if you were in the country. European countries pay NO TAX on pensions. I am jealous. But check with a lawyer because laws can change. Portugal's, Italy's and Spain's just did. Fifteen percent flat tax on income earned within Albania, tons of perks and loopholes for businesses. Not sure about income earned outside Albania such as working in Albania while being a digital nomad. They are making Albania super duper competitive and I am happy they are developing their beautiful country.
@@janroach1852 Hi Thank you for your comment !
50% you are not wrong… :)
Question> if on a USA passport and one leaves after spending one year in Albania , can you return again after a few days using a British passport ( I have both USA & UK) , spend their (UK) 90 day limit, leave again for a couple of days and then return using one’s USA passport ? 🤔
i only know of U.S. passport. 1 year in. 90 days out then return. Not 1 day and return like you can in other countries. Trying to use 2 passports i could not tell you.
Hi Patrick. very helpful videos. I paid total 296usd to fly from tampa to jfk to paris on 1120. Stay in paris 1 week then to tirana on 11/27. I tried using alessi and realestateal when I was there in march. I'll try the illyrian site as I need an apt to stay in tirana. I tried using the site but can't seem to bring up any results. can you help with it ? Thanks
Mario
phone for office ...+355694535107 .ask for julian his english is real good,..i can give you his personal number. but not here on youtube. its his request.. email me for his personal number roadway12345@yahoo.com
Famiglia Grossi with the same purpose as Patrick - Famiglia Grossi con lo stesso scopo di Patrick
Hello Patrick, planning to visit later this year. Can I ask what city you are in? Also do you have Julian's email address, your realtor?. I'm not an I.T. guy and having issues emailing him from the link on their website.
For now ( i may move ) im in Tirana. Julians business email website is... www.illyrianhome.al ...his personal email i dont know. if you want his number plz email me..i will give it to you there for his whatsapp number. if you dont have whatsapp get it , you will need it. its a free down load to phone and text for free world wide.
I will warn you I had horrible experience with FedEx trying to get things sent to Albania. I ended up having to have it sent by DHL and no problems at all.
ive been using DHL aswell. no issues
Hiya Patrick! So glad to have found your channel. With the increase in people vacationing and expats moving to Albania, the rental amounts seem to be increasing over time. Do you think it might be a good time for us to consider purchasing? Are townhouses or condos a thing there? Looking at Vlore. Would love your opinion. Thanks!
Also, are there property management companies?
For April and I yes it made sense to buy. The guys I use, and they have helped my friends...www.illyrianhome.com
Do they speak English?
Yes. Especially the young. Anyone 30 or younger. Some older do.
❤ Patrick, we are leaving California on Oct. 1, heading out in your direction. My son Dwayne Prejean just launched his first 2 videos on TH-cam named “Prejean with a passport”. You may want to follow us as we make our EXIT ! We have been followers since you and April left Texas. We enjoy every one of your videos, sometimes viewing x2. Stay safe.
i will follow ! i will now subscribe
im trying to reach your channel. i will quip trying
You mentioned pensions were they social security pension or something else
some thing else
Pat, me again. On TH-cam, it is named “ Prejean with a passport”. Try again. ❤
Thank you, I will
why cant i find a SINGLE facebook group for a cycling club, motorcycles, car, body building/fitness etc in albania???!? also it seems theres no motorcycles/bicycles for sale on facebook market place in Vlore or tirana?? what the heck? do albanians use something other than facebook? google doesnt have anything or youtube either on these hobbies
ive seen many bikes riding togethers as a group. I dont know of any thing online
And when your 1-year stay without a visa is over… then what??
Then i put what i have gotten in storage. Visit another country or two for 3 months and come back for another year. Or if i buy, i just leave my home for a few months then come back. Im also exploring ways to get a 5 year visa, then go for residency so i never HAVE to leave. But i also do very much want to travel.
What the dating scene for someone in their late 50?
albanians in general are quite conservative. its not a filthy place like Thailand or south america.
im married .sorry i dont know. But they are a very traditional people
yes...old school
Nice to hear!
Welcome to Kosovo its safe and cheap to live.
I plan on visiting Kosovo !
I’m tuning into your channel cause I’m watching you now on vagabond awake and I’m very excited about what I can learn from you.
We are in Miami Florida and the cost of living is past the point of absurd
I’m in my mid-50s and I don’t want to get crushed by the inflation that only looks like it’s going to keep getting worse here
so now I’m looking at finishing the last chapter of my life in a beautiful comfortable and affordable country
but it has to have Pickleball because that’s my only addiction in life😄
any suggestions?
Hi! I have no idea what pickleball is so im not sure i can help