US Lifts Travel Ban on Albania's Ex-Leader Sali Berisha

Former Albanian president and prime minister Sali Berisha said on Friday that the United States has removed a travel ban on Sali Berisha and his family in 2021, marking an important political development in Albania politics.

Berisha, 81, who now leads Albania’s main opposition Democratic Party, said the decision came after the U.S. State Department reviewed his case. Calling the earlier action unfair, he described the move as a correction by the U.S. authorities.

“As of yesterday, after a thorough review of my case by the State Department, my family and I are no longer deprived of the possibility of travel to the United States,” Berisha wrote in a Facebook post.

• US lifts travel ban on Albania ex-leader Sali Berisha after review
• Sali Berisha says US removes travel restrictions on him and family
• Albania politics in focus as US lifts Sali Berisha travel ban

The United States had banned Berisha and his immediate family from entering the country in 2021 under U.S. travel restrictions linked to anti-corruption measures. At the time, the State Department accused him of involvement in “corrupt acts,” including misusing public funds and using political influence to benefit family members and close associates.

Berisha denied the accusations and repeatedly said the decision was politically motivated. Even after the ban, he remained active in politics and continued to play a major role in leading the Albanian opposition party against the ruling government.

A spokesperson for the State Department told Reuters that waivers had been granted for several travel restrictions imposed under the previous administration because doing so served “a compelling national interest.” However, officials did not directly confirm the names of those who received the waivers.

Although the State Department did not publicly mention Berisha, his statement and the timing of the announcement strongly suggest he was among those affected. The case has once again brought attention to Albania corruption allegations and their impact on political leadership.

Decision Comes Amid Rising Political Tensions

The development comes at a sensitive time in Albania, where protests have grown over plans for a Jared Kushner Albania resort project linked to the son-in-law of Donald Trump. The proposal has drawn criticism from opposition groups, local residents, and environmental activists who fear damage to protected coastal areas and question transparency.

Berisha’s Democratic Party has also increased criticism of Prime Minister Edi Rama government, accusing it of corruption and favouring powerful investors over public concerns.

Political observers say lifting the US travel ban lifted decision could strengthen Berisha’s image among supporters as he continues to challenge the government. The move may also affect US-Albania relations, particularly as Albania remains a NATO member and an important Western ally in the Balkans.

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While its long-term impact remains uncertain, the decision has added momentum to discussions around Albanian political developments, transparency, and foreign influence in the country.