Albania will officially launch euro payments in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) on October 7, 2025. The announcement came from Bank of Albania Governor Gent Sejko during the Ambassadors’ Conference.

Sejko called the step “a historic milestone” for the country’s financial system and EU integration. “This positions Albania as fully integrated in Europe’s financial payment system,” he said.

The Bank of Albania, together with state institutions, has met all legal and regulatory requirements for SEPA entry. The European Payments Council has already approved all Albanian banks to operate in the system starting next year.

SEPA currently covers 41 countries, including EU member states, Nordic nations, and the UK. It ensures faster euro transfers, uniform standards, and lower costs compared to traditional systems.

Albania and Montenegro were formally admitted to SEPA in November 2024. The move is seen as a strategic achievement in finance and transparency.

Sejko noted that reforms against money laundering and a new payments law paved the way for accession. He stressed the direct benefits: faster euro transfers, lower banking fees, greater transparency, and stronger investor confidence.

“This step cuts costs for the economy and boosts Albania’s image abroad, making the country more attractive for foreign investment,” Sejko underlined.

/a.c/