Timeline
This country's accession timeline, newest first. Each item links to its primary source. We summarise in our own words and never republish article text.
Data verified as of 15 Jun 2026
- Milestone
Albania enters the concluding phase
Albania met the Fundamentals cluster interim benchmarks — the second candidate after Montenegro to reach this stage.
- Milestone
All six clusters now open
With the resources, agriculture and cohesion cluster, Albania has opened all 33 chapters.
- Milestone
Cluster 1 "Fundamentals" opens
Albania opened its first negotiating cluster, starting a rapid run that opened all six clusters in 13 months.
- Milestone
Accession negotiations open
The first Intergovernmental Conference in Luxembourg formally launched accession negotiations with Albania (alongside North Macedonia).
- Milestone
EU grants Albania candidate status
The Council granted Albania candidate-country status.
- Milestone
Albania applies for EU membership
Albania formally applied to join the European Union.