An apartment in Albania may come with a TV, but that doesn’t mean it will support the streaming apps you normally use. The TV might be older, the app store may be limited, and phone casting doesn’t always work.
Fortunately, it’s fairly easy to watch American TV in Albania once you have the right streaming device and know how to wield a good VPN.
This guide covers where to buy streaming devices in Albania and how to access your existing US subscriptions from abroad.
The easiest way to stream American TV in Albania
A streaming stick is usually the simplest solution.
Many furnished apartments in Albania have a basic smart TV, but some models don’t support popular American apps, AirPlay or newer streaming features. A streaming stick connects to the TV’s HDMI port and gives you a familiar menu where you can install apps and sign into your accounts.
Popular options include:
- Amazon Fire TV Stick
- Xiaomi TV Stick
- Google TV Streamer or Chromecast with Google TV
- Apple TV
- Roku
If you already own one, bring it with you. Don’t forget the remote, charging cable and power adapter.
Where to buy a streaming stick in Albania
You don’t necessarily need to order one from the United States.
Shpresa currently sells Xiaomi TV Sticks and Amazon Fire TV Sticks in Albania. Prices generally fall between 5,000 and 7,000 lek, depending on the model and current promotion.
The Xiaomi TV Stick is a practical choice because it uses Google TV or Android TV, depending on the version. This gives you access to a large app store and allows compatible VPN apps to run directly on the device.
My guide to buying electronics and appliances in Albania covers more local stores, pricing quirks and things to check before buying imported technology.
Other electronics stores and online marketplaces may also carry streaming devices, although the selection changes frequently. If you can’t find the model you want locally, the Albania online shopping guide explains the realities of ordering products from abroad.
Before buying a streaming device, check:
Roku works well for regular streaming, but it isn’t my first choice for a VPN-based setup because it doesn’t offer the same direct VPN app support as Fire TV, Apple TV and Android-based devices.
Can you use Netflix in Albania?
Yes, with some caveats. Netflix works in Albania without a VPN and you can sign into your existing account through the Netflix app or website.
However, shows and movies differ from the US catalog because Netflix licenses content separately in each country.
A VPN isn’t always helpful with Netflix. Netflix says VPN users may only see titles for which it has worldwide rights, and some content may not load until the VPN is disconnected. VPNs also aren’t supported for Netflix live events or its ad-supported experience.
Which American streaming services work in Albania?
Access depends on the service, your subscription and its current licensing rules.
Netflix and some Prime Video titles generally work while you’re abroad, although you may see a different catalog. Amazon states that only selected Prime Video titles are available outside your home country. Prime Video add-on subscriptions may not work abroad.
US-only services and live television apps are more likely to restrict access based on location. This may include:
- Hulu
- Sling TV
- YouTube TV
- US network apps
- Some live sports packages
- Certain Prime Video channels
- Other services licensed only for US viewers
A VPN may help a compatible service recognize your connection as coming from the United States, but it isn’t guaranteed. Streaming companies regularly update their location checks, and VPN use may conflict with a platform’s terms. You may also need a US billing method, an existing US account or a subscription created before you moved.
Do you need a VPN to watch American TV in Albania?
Not for everything.
A VPN makes your internet connection appear to come from another location. It can also add privacy when you’re using hotel, airport or café Wi-Fi.
You may want one if:
You probably don’t need one for:
How to install a VPN on your television
The easiest method depends on your streaming device.
Option 1: Install the VPN app directly
Many VPN companies offer television apps for:
- Amazon Fire TV
- Android TV
- Google TV
- Apple TV
Apple added support for downloadable VPN apps to Apple TV beginning with tvOS 17. Android TV and Fire TV also support compatible VPN apps.
Search for your VPN provider in the device’s app store, install the app and sign in. You can then choose a US server before opening the streaming service.
NordVPN and Surfshark are popular paid options. Proton VPN and Windscribe also offer limited free plans, although free servers can be slower or less reliable for streaming.
Check the provider’s current device support before paying for a long subscription.
Option 2: Set up a VPN travel router
A travel router is helpful when your television doesn’t support VPN apps or you want to connect several devices at once.
The router connects to your apartment’s internet and creates a separate Wi-Fi network. Every device connected to that network uses the VPN configuration on the router.
This setup can cover:
- Smart TVs
- Roku devices
- Phones and tablets
- Laptops
- Game consoles
It takes more effort to configure, but you don’t have to install the VPN separately on every device.
Option 3: Connect a laptop with an HDMI cable
For occasional use, connect the VPN on your computer and use an HDMI cable to display the screen on your television.
This isn’t the prettiest setup, but it’s often the quickest fix when a rental television refuses to cooperate.
Wireless casting can be less reliable because your phone, computer and streaming device usually need to be connected to the same local network.
What to do when the VPN stops working
VPNs sometimes slow down your connection or stop a streaming app from loading.
Try these fixes:
- Disconnect from the VPN.
- Confirm that your regular internet connection works.
- Reconnect to a different US server.
- Close and reopen the streaming app.
- Restart the streaming device.
- Clear the app’s cache if your device offers that option.
- Check for updates to the VPN and streaming apps.
If a service works without the VPN, leave it off. There’s no benefit to making the setup more complicated than necessary.
What internet speed do you need?
You don’t need an unusually fast Albanian internet plan for streaming, but the connection needs to be stable.
A VPN can reduce your speed, especially when you connect to a server thousands of miles away. If a show keeps buffering, try:
- A different US server
- A wired Ethernet connection
- A server closer to the East Coast
- Lowering the video quality from 4K to HD
- Disconnecting other devices from the network
- Restarting the router
Many streaming problems blamed on Albania are really old-router or weak-Wi-Fi problems.
For more useful technology after you arrive, see my list of 15 essential apps to download before moving to Albania.
A quick note about US banking and verification codes
A US phone number can be more important than a VPN for managing accounts abroad.
Tello supports calls and standard SMS messages over Wi-Fi while overseas, including many bank verification texts. You’ll need a compatible phone, Wi-Fi Calling enabled and a valid US emergency address saved to the account.
Google Voice is convenient, but it isn’t the safest choice for essential banking access. Some financial institutions reject VoIP numbers or don’t send verification codes to them consistently.
Set up more than one verification method before leaving the United States if possible:
Use your bank’s official app or website and a secure connection. A VPN isn’t automatically safer for banking and may trigger additional security checks if your apparent location suddenly changes.
My complete guide to banking in Albania covers US accounts, Albanian banks, ATM fees and the simplest way to manage money between both countries.
My recommended setup
For most Americans living in Albania, I’d keep it simple:
You don’t need an elaborate whole-home system just to watch a few familiar shows. A small streaming stick and a reliable internet connection will solve most problems.
Frequently asked questions
Can I watch American Netflix in Albania?
Netflix works in Albania, but you’ll normally see the catalog available in your current region. Netflix may limit content or display an error when it detects a VPN.
Can I use my Amazon Fire Stick in Albania?
Yes. Connect it to the television’s HDMI port and your apartment’s Wi-Fi. Individual apps and content may still have geographic restrictions.
Can I buy a Fire Stick in Albania?
Yes. Shpresa currently lists Amazon Fire TV Sticks alongside Xiaomi TV Sticks. Stock and prices can change, so check before visiting.
Does Apple TV support VPN apps?
Apple TV models running tvOS 17 or later support downloadable VPN apps. Availability depends on the VPN provider and your App Store region.
Is a VPN legal in Albania?
VPNs are generally used in Albania for privacy and secure internet access. However, a streaming platform can still restrict VPN use under its own terms.
Will a US streaming subscription work in Albania?
Sometimes. Netflix, Prime Video and other international services may offer a local or travel catalog. US-only live television platforms are more likely to restrict access.