Edi Rama unveils two new digital projects: mobile ID cards and biometric gate at Tirana Airport
Prime Minister Edi Rama announced two new milestones in Albania’s digital transformation during his podcast “Flasim”: the introduction of digital ID cards and the launch of a biometric entry gate at Tirana International Airport “Nënë Tereza.”
Why is this important: The projects mark major steps toward integrating Albania into the EU’s digital standards and simplifying public services through technology. Citizens will soon be able to use their smartphones as fully functional digital identity cards, while travelers will benefit from faster, contactless border control.
Context: Rama said Albania is preparing for a “technological leap” that will allow ID cards to be stored and used digitally via mobile devices or computers — transforming them into multifunctional electronic wallets.
He added that the initiative aligns with the EU’s 2027 deadline for implementing digital IDs, while Albania aims to complete its system by early 2026.
The second project — the biometric gate at “Mother Theresa” airport — will allow travelers to enter the country without traditional passport checks, using only facial and digital data verification.
“Tirana Airport will become the first in Europe with a digital entry gate, a leap made possible by technology that allows developing countries to advance faster than ever,” Rama noted.
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