Algeria Country Information
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At AARDY we provide our customers with country specific information from the US State Department and the CIA. To give our customers a more rounded view on their destination country, we also provide country specific information from other trusted nations, such as Australia and the United Kingdom.
Travel Advice with Country Information from the Australian Smart Traveler Website
The following Algeria Information should help you make the most of your trip to Algeria.
Note: Always check that your destination country is one approved for travel by your travel insurance provider.
Latest update
Latest update: We’ve reviewed our advice for Algeria. We haven’t changed the level of our advice, reconsider your need to travel. Higher levels apply in some areas. International flights to and from Algeria have resumed. Domestic flights are operational. On arrival in Algeria, you must present evidence of a completed vaccination schedule, with the latest booster within the last 9 months. Otherwise, a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result taken 72 hours before arrival is required. COVID-19 measures can change at short notice (see 'Travel').
We advise:
Reconsider your need to travel to Algeria overall due to high threat of terrorist attack and civil unrest.
Higher levels apply in some areas.
Reconsider your need to travel to Algeria overall.
Reconsider your need to travel to Algeria overall due to the high threat of terrorist attack and civil unrest.
to the area within 450km of the borders with Mali and Niger.
Do not travel to the area within 450km of the borders with Mali and Niger due to the high threat of terrorist attack.
See Safety
to the area within 100km of the borders with Mauritania, Libya and Tunisia.
Do not travel to the area within 100km of the borders with Mauritania, Libya and Tunisia due to the very high risk of terrorist attack.
See Safety
Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution
in Algiers.
Exercise a high degree of caution in Algiers due to the risk of terrorist attack.
See Safety
Overview
Health advice due to COVID-19 is continually changing. Rules and restrictions to prevent outbreaks can change quickly. It’s important to regularly check the rules in the destinations you’re travelling to and transiting through.
Read our global health advisory and step-by-step guide to travel during COVID-19 for more information.
Safety
- There are frequent protests in Algeria that can become violent. Protests are illegal in Algiers. Avoid political events, protests, and other public gatherings.
- Risk of terrorist attacks is very high. Avoid travelling to remote areas. Monitor the news and other sources for information about threats.
- Risk of kidnapping is very high in some parts of Algeria. If you travel to these areas, seek professional security advice and have effective personal security measures in place.
- Be aware of bandits in deserted beach areas, even during daylight hours. Keep car doors locked and windows up, even while moving.
- Earthquakes and flooding can occur. Monitor the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System for updates. Follow the advice of local authorities.
Full travel advice: Safety
Health
- COVID-19 remains a risk in Algeria.
- Insect-borne diseases include leishmaniasis, West Nile fever and malaria. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Consider taking medication to prevent malaria.
- Tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis, meningitis, rabies are also common. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Avoid bathing in freshwater sources.
- The standard of medical facilities can vary. Medical facilities in remote areas are limited or non-existent. Consider carrying some medical supplies for personal use. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll be evacuated. Get adequate travel insurance.
Full travel advice: Health
Local laws
- Same-sex sexual activity is illegal.
- Photographing sensitive sites or military or security personnel is illegal.
- Algeria doesn't recognise dual nationality. The Australian Government's ability to help dual citizens may be limited. Always travel on your Australian passport.
- Male Algerian nationals must complete a period of compulsory military service. This includes dual nationals. Make sure you understand your obligations before you travel to Algeria.
- Dress and behaviour standards are conservative. Men and women should avoid physical contact with each other in public. Women should consider wearing a headscarf.
- During the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public.
Full travel advice: Local laws
Travel
- You'll need a visa to enter Algeria. Only tourists arriving and departing by cruise ship can get visas on arrival. All other travellers must have a visa in advance. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Algeria for the latest details.
- International flights to and from Algeria have resumed. Domestic flights are operational. Land borders are partially open. Contact your travel agent or airline directly for more information and bookings.
- You must present proof of a complete vaccination schedule, with the most recent vaccine within the last 9 months.
- Non-vaccinated travellers, or those who had their last vaccine more than 9 months ago, must provide a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test, taken within 72 before arrival.
Full travel advice: Travel
Local contacts
- The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
- Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Algeria. For consular help, contact the Canadian Embassy in Algiers.
- You can also get help from the Australian Embassy in France.
- To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Full advice
Safety
Terrorism
There's a high threat of terrorist attack in Algeria. Algerian security forces are usually the primary targets but civilians have been killed and injured in past attacks.
A terror attack could occur anywhere and at any time.
Recent terror attacks include:
- On 16 January 2021, two four-wheel drive vehicles triggered two Improvised Explosive Devices, killing 5 civilians.
- On 14 January 2021, a roadside bomb killed 5 Algerian citizens in Telidjane, Tebessa province, on the border with Tunisia. Al Qaeda claimed responsibility for placement of the landmine, but denied that they were targeting civilians.
Terror hot spots
In the past, terror attacks have focused on major dates and anniversaries.
Take extra care:
- within 100km of borders with Tunisia, Libya and Mauritania
- in the Chaambi mountains area, south of Souk Ahras
- within 450km of borders with Mali and Niger
- in the Kabylie region, east of Algiers, which covers Tizi Ouzou, Bouira, Bourmedès, Ain Defla and Bejaia provinces
- in Algeria's major cities, including in the Kasbah in central Algiers
Algerian security forces have a strong presence. Regular counter-terrorism operations have killed several insurgents. Despite this, the threat continues.
Possible targets for future attacks include:
- Western businesses, foreign embassies and expat housing compounds
- Algerian Government offices, security installations and police stations
- clubs, restaurants and international hotels
- schools, churches and other places of worship
- shopping centres, outdoor recreation events, tourist areas and places of interest to Westerners
- shipping and transport infrastructure, ports, airports, aircraft, petrol and electrical infrastructure
When planning your trip, consider places known to be terrorist targets. Also note the level of security of places you plan to visit.
To protect yourself from terrorist attacks:
- avoid needless travel in remote areas
- use suitable personal security measures and always be alert
- monitor the news and other sources for new or emerging threats
- take official warnings seriously
- follow the advice of local authorities
If there's an attack, leave the area if it is safe to do so.
After an attack, avoid that area due to of the risk of secondary attacks.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
More information:
Kidnapping
Kidnapping by criminals and terrorists occurs in Algeria, particularly outside major centres.
Kidnappings are common in the Kabylie region in north east Algeria and in the trans-Sahara region in the south. The threat is very high in the Djanet district in Illizi province and Tamanrasset province.
Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), and splinter groups committed to the same ideology, take hostages. AQIM has taken a number of hostages from remote areas in Algeria and neighbouring countries. Several remain in captivity.
The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.
If you travel to an area where there's a high threat of kidnapping:
- seek professional security advice
- have effective personal security measures in place
More information:
Civil unrest and political tension
Demonstrations and protests
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.
There are frequent protests in Algeria. Most are peaceful, but some involve violent clashes between police and demonstrators.
Protests are illegal in Algiers.
Most other civil unrest is localised, sporadic and spontaneous.
There has been a big rise in civil unrest over economic issues in recent years.
International events or local political events may also prompt protests.
To protect yourself during periods of unrest:
- avoid political events, protests, and other public gatherings
- take particular caution before, during and after Friday prayers
- monitor the news and other sources for planned or possible unrest or strikes
- avoid affected areas
- follow the advice of local authorities
Be ready to change travel plans in case of disruptions.
If there are transport disruptions, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.
More information:
Crime
Petty crime
Pickpocketing, bag snatching and theft from cars occurs, especially in larger cities. Crime levels are higher after dark.
Road-based crime
Robbery and carjacking occur, particularly at deserted beach areas, even during daylight hours.
Some criminals pose as police officers or set up illegal road blocks. When you stop, they rob you or hijack your car.
To protect yourself from crime:
- stay at international hotels that provide a high level of security
- pay close attention to your belongings at all times
- avoid walking in isolated areas or alone at night
- avoid deserted beach areas, even during the day
- keep car doors locked and windows up, even when moving
- use a local licensed guide for tours of the Kasbah area of Algiers
Climate and natural disasters
Earthquakes and flooding
Earthquakes and flooding occur in parts of Algeria, including Algiers.
To protect yourself if a natural disaster or severe weather occurs:
- secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
- monitor local news and other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
- follow the advice of local authorities
- keep in contact with your friends and family
Our ability to provide consular services may be very limited.
Health
Travel insurance
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
- what activities and care your policy covers
- that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away
Physical and mental health
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
- have a basic health check-up
- ask if your travel plans may affect your health
- plan any vaccinations you need
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.
More information:
- General health advice
- Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health and Aged Care)
Medications
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Algeria. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Keep your medicines in their original packaging.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
- what the medicine is
- how much you'll take
- that it's for personal use
More information:
Health risks
COVID-19
COVID-19 remains a risk in Algeria. The Algerian Ministry of Health has advised that those displaying or suspected to have COVID-19 symptoms should dial 3030.
You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
More information:
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health and Aged Care)
- Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Insect-borne diseases
Insect-borne diseases are widespread in Algeria. This includes leishmaniasis and West Nile fever. There's also a risk of malaria.
To protect yourself from disease:
- make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
- use insect repellent
- wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.
See a doctor if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.
More information:
Other infectious diseases
Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are prevalent. This includes:
Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.
To protect yourself from illness:
- drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
- avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
- don't swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to waterborne diseases
- don't go near dogs and other mammals
If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical help straight away.
Seek medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.
Medical care
Medical facilities
The standard of medical facilities varies.
In Algiers, some public health services are adequate. Others are more limited.
Private health services tend to be better than public ones. Many meet basic international standards, especially those in Algiers.
Medical facilities in remote areas are limited or non-existent. This includes mountainous and desert regions. Consider carrying some medical supplies for personal use.
You'll have to pay an up-front deposit for medical services.
If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll be evacuated to somewhere with appropriate facilities. This might be in France. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
Local laws
Local law
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Drugs
Penalties for possessing illegal drugs include jail time.
More information:
Other laws
In Algeria, it's illegal to:
- conduct same-sex sexual activity
- take photos of sensitive sites or military or security personnel
- attempt to convert Muslims to another faith
- give out material that authorities perceive as trying to convert Muslims to another faith
- import or export Algerian currency
More information:
Death penalty
Serious crime, such as murder or treason, may attract the death penalty.
Australian laws
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Dual citizenship
Algeria doesn't recognise dual nationality.
If you're a dual citizen, this may limit our ability to give consular help if you're arrested or detained.
Always travel on your Australian passport.
Male Algerian nationals must complete a period of compulsory military service. This includes dual nationals.
Other citizenship obligations may also apply.
If you're a dual national, make sure you understand your obligations before you travel to Algeria.
More information:
Dual national children
Children with an Algerian father acquire Algerian citizenship at birth.
Algerian minors younger than 19 years need the written consent of their father to leave Algerian territory. This includes including dual national children.
Local religious laws decide child custody.
If you're involved in custody or other family disputes, consult a lawyer before you leave Australia. Get advice on the impact of religious law on your family situation. Check about leaving Algeria and what you need to do.
More information:
Local customs
Dress and behaviour standards
Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in Algeria. This is particularly the case:
- in rural and traditional areas
- near mosques, shrines, religious schools and colleges
Take care not to offend. Avoid physical contact between men and women in public.
If in doubt, seek local advice.
If you're female:
- wear loose-fitting clothes that cover your arms and legs
- consider wearing a headscarf
Religious festivals
The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Algeria. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.
During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.
Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.
The normal work week in Algeria is Sunday to Thursday.
Travel
Visas and border measures
Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, including COVID-19 vaccinations and tests, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
Visas
You'll need a visa to enter Algeria.
Only tourists arriving and departing by cruise ship can get visas on arrival. All other travellers must have a visa in advance.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.
Border measures
Some international flights from Algeria have resumed. Contact your travel agent or the airline directly for more information and bookings. Land borders are partially opened.
You must present proof of a complete vaccination schedule with the most recent vaccine within the last nine months. If you're unvaccinated, or your vaccine was more than 9 months ago, you must provide a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 72 hours before arrival.
Yellow fever vaccination
You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Algeria if you arrive from a country where yellow fever is endemic.
This rule doesn't apply to children younger than 12 months.
More information:
Passport
Validity
Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Lost or stolen passport
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
- In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
- If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
Money
The currency is the Algerian Dinar (DZD).
To avoid risks, only change money at:
- an exchange bureau at international airports or large hotels
- commercial banks in major cities
It's illegal to import or export DZD.
Hotels and some businesses in larger cities accept credit cards.
ATMs are available in major cities and large international hotels. Most accept international credit cards.
Local travel
Local restrictions
Make sure your COVID-19 vaccination is up to date. Carry your proof of vaccination with you. The 'vaccination pass' is required to access public spaces and buildings including:
- Stadiums and locations for sporting events
- Sports halls, gyms, and swimming pools
- Meetings, seminars, and conferences
- Cinemas, theatres, museums, and entertainment venues
- National and local festivities and events
- Lounges and exhibition fairs
- Party halls
- Hammams
You must wear a face mask in indoor public spaces. You may be fined if you don't wear a face mask indoors.
Driving permit
To drive in Algeria you must have both:
- a valid Australian driver's licence
- an International Driving Permit (IDP)
You must get your IDP before leaving Australia.
Road travel
Road and traffic conditions are very dangerous.
Road accidents cause many deaths and injuries each year.
Armed groups and bandits make road travel risky. Armed groups are very active in Tamanrasset and Illizi provinces in southern Algeria.
Away from major highways, bandits use illegal checkpoints and blockades on roads to stop vehicles.
By law, police authorities must approve all road travel outside city limits in advance.
Avoid travel by road throughout Algeria, especially in Tamanrasset and Illizi provinces.
If you need to travel within Algeria, travel by air.
To protect yourself if you travel by road despite the risks:
- find out about local traffic laws and practices
- get up-to-date local advice on planned routes
- ask local authorities to clear travel beyond city limits before you go
- be alert to possible hazards, including roadblocks and armed groups
- don't travel at night
- make contingency plans
More information:
Motorcycles
Check your insurance covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.
Always wear a helmet. Make sure your passenger does too.
Taxis
Use only registered taxis and limousines. There are radio-dispatch taxis within Algiers as well as taxi hailing apps. Your hotel may be able to help you book one.
Public transport
Avoid public transport. It's not reliable and often not secure. Instead use a car and driver from a reputable provider.
Sea travel
A number of international cruise liners visit Algeria.
More information:
Air travel
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Algeria's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Local contacts
Emergencies
Depending on what you need, contact your:
- family and friends
- travel agent
- insurance provider
- employer
- airline
Fire and rescue services
Call 17 from a landline. Call 021 73 53 50 from a mobile phone.
Medical emergencies
Call 17 from a landline. Call 021 73 53 50 from a mobile phone.
Police
Call 17 from a landline. Call 021 73 53 50 from a mobile phone.
Emergency operators may not speak French and normally don't speak English.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Tourism
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Consular services
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Algeria.
The Canadian Embassy in Algiers provides consular help to Australians in Algeria. It can issue Australian provisional travel documents.
Canadian Embassy
18, Mustapha Khalef Street
Ben Aknoun
Algiers, 16000, Algeria
Phone: (+213) (0) 770 08 30 00
Email: alger@international.gc.ca
Website: Embassy of Canada to Algeria
Opening hours (consular services): Sunday to Thursday 9am to 11am
You can also get consular help from the Australian Embassy in France.
Australian Embassy
4 rue Jean Rey
75724 Cedex 15
Paris, France
Phone: (+33) 1 4059 3300
Email: consular.paris@dfat.gov.au
Website: france.embassy.gov.au (French)
Facebook: L'Australie en France
Twitter: @AusAmbFR
Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
24-hour Consular Emergency Centre
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
- +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
- 1300 555 135 in Australia
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