How to request camera footage of yourself in Albania

2026-10-12

If a camera has filmed you, the footage in which you appear is personal data. Law No. 124/2024 "On the protection of personal data" is aligned with the EU GDPR. It gives you the right to know what data is held about you and to obtain a copy.

This guide is informational and is not legal advice. For specific cases, consult a lawyer or the Commissioner.

The Albanian version is Si të kërkosh pamjet e kamerës ku shfaqesh ti.

1. Find out who operates the camera

• Smart City and police cameras: the controller is the State Police / Ministry of Interior.
• Municipal cameras: the controller is the relevant municipality.
• Private cameras (shops, banks, apartment buildings): the controller is the private entity, which is expected to display an information sign.

On the map check the "Operator" field when it is known.

2. Send a written request

Write an email or formal letter that includes:

1. Your name and a way to identify you.
2. The date, time (as precisely as you can) and place where you passed the camera.
3. A description that helps them find you in the footage (clothing, vehicle).
4. The request itself, for example: "Under the right of access in Law No. 124/2024, I request a copy of the personal data concerning me, together with information on the purpose of processing, the retention period and the recipients of the data."

Act quickly. Many systems automatically delete footage after a few days. Retention periods are one of the questions that remain publicly unanswered for the Smart City programme; see EU standards on surveillance.

3. Response deadline

The controller should respond within 30 days. The law allows limited extensions. Access can be restricted in some cases, for example to protect an investigation, but a refusal should be reasoned.

4. If there is no answer: complain to the Commissioner

The Commissioner for the Right to Information and Protection of Personal Data (IDP) is the independent supervisory authority. You can file a complaint through the official site idp.al. Attach a copy of your request and any reply you received. See also how to complain to the IDP.

Frequently asked questions

Can someone else request my footage? No. Footage of other people is also protected and is usually blurred before it is handed over.

Do I have to explain why I want it? No. The right of access does not require a justification.

What about traffic cameras and fines? If you receive a fine from a camera, you have the right to see the photographic evidence supporting it.

What about licence plate readers? See what ANPR cameras are and how to file a freedom-of-information request.