Risk level

Safety and security

Border areas

Border areas often see greater criminal activity and violence.

Algeria's security concerns are mainly due to regional instability. There is a heightened risk of kidnapping and terrorist attacks in rural, mountainous, border and remote desert areas of North Africa. Extremist groups take advantage of porous borders to carry out attacks. They operate human, drug and weapons trafficking in these areas, contributing to the overall threat.

Terrorist groups and extremist militants are especially active along the borders with:

• Mali
• Niger
• Libya
• Tunisia
• Mauritania

The border with Morocco has remained closed since 1994. Tensions are high in this region.

Although counterterrorism operations should limit the ability of militants to carry out large-scale attacks, you should avoid all travel to border areas.

Terrorism

There’s a constant terrorist threat across North Africa. Reports of planned terrorist attacks occasionally emerge.

In recent years, the Algerian government has intensified its fight against terrorists. Counterterrorism operations significantly diminished the capacity of terrorist groups to operate in Algeria. However, militants remain in the country even if attacks are less common. They mainly target security forces, local government, and Western interests. Terrorist activity in Libya, Mali, Niger, and Tunisia contributes to the overall threat, particularly in border regions.

Despite these efforts, terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during the following:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists could use such occasions to mount attacks.

Kidnapping

There’s a threat of kidnapping, mostly in remote, isolated and border areas.

Should you plan to travel to remote areas despite the risks:

• be vigilant at all times
• always carry your cellphone and charger
• use only major roads and highways
• vary your itineraries and schedules
• consider hiring a reputable guide who knows the area well
• stay at hotels that have strong security measures

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations may occur. Political, social and economic tensions caused civil unrest throughout the country in the past. Security forces are highly visible and may use tear gas or other tactics to disperse crowds.

Even peaceful demonstrations can suddenly turn violent at any time. They can also lead to traffic and public transportation disruptions, causing road closures and delays.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Political activism

Over the past year, the Algerian government increased the number of arrests of activists, including some associated with the Hirak popular protest movement, which began in Algeria in February 2019.

Algerian authorities have also prevented dual Canadian-Algerian citizens from leaving Algeria after they were identified as politically engaged in Canada.

Participating in demonstrations or political activities, including on social media, may prevent you from leaving the country.

Exercise great care when interacting online, even when you are outside of Algeria.

Crime

The crime rate is moderate in Algeria. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, especially in larger cities after dark. Armed robberies may also occur.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep a low profile
• Never walk alone and avoid travelling after dark
• Don’t show signs of affluence
• Carry only small amounts of cash
• Avoid using your smartphone or camera in public
• Don’t resist if robbers threaten you

If you are travelling by car:

• keep your windows closed and doors locked at all times
• if possible, travel in a convoy
• use secure parking facilities
• never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk

Romance scams

Internet romance scams via dating websites or social media have occurred.

If you are travelling to Algeria to meet an online contact:

• keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam
• be wary of people who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet

Overseas fraud

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to certain forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Sexual harassment and assaults have occurred.

To avoid being the target of harassment, women should:

• dress conservatively
• avoid walking alone
• travel in groups
• travel during daylight hours only
• sit in the back seat of taxis

Advice for women travellers

Adventure tourism

Desert expeditions or trekking can be dangerous, especially if they are not well organized. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly.

If you undertake desert expeditions:

• never do so alone
• always hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
• travel in a 4 x 4 vehicle
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• don’t venture off marked trails
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and carry sufficient water supply
• know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
• obtain detailed information on the activity before setting out

Water shortages

Water shortages occur regularly, especially from April to October. This is mainly due to fast-growing demand affecting the provision of essential services. They may trigger demonstrations.

Keep reserve supplies of water on hand.

Road safety

Road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Accidents are common.

Road conditions

Road conditions have significantly improved in recent years. However, they can be poor outside of Algiers. In desert regions, rough roads require 4 x 4 vehicles.

Driving can also be dangerous due to the following:

• narrow, winding, and mountainous roads
• slippery roads and winter conditions in the northern part of the country
• sand-laden winds in the southern part of the country
• heavy traffic and congestion, especially in urban areas
• potholes and unpaved roads
• poorly maintained vehicles

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds. They may be aggressive and reckless. Texting and driving is also a common practice.

If you plan on travelling by car in Algeria, you should consider renting a car with a hired driver rather than driving yourself. If you choose to drive:

• always drive defensively
• plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you visit a rural area
• avoid road travel at night
• use only main roads and highways
• avoid stopping in isolated areas
• keep your car doors locked and the windows closed at all times

Checkpoints

Checkpoints on roads heading into and out of larger cities and on roads throughout Algiers are common.

Don’t go through checkpoints without stopping, even if they appear unattended.

Public transportation

Metro

The Algiers metro is safe and reliable to use during daytime.

Buses

Buses are unreliable. They are rarely on time, especially during rush hours. Some public and private vehicles are poorly maintained. They are often the site of petty theft, armed robbery and sexual harassment incidents.

• Don’t use local or intercity public buses
• Use only reputable tour operators

Taxis

Hotel-associated taxis are considered safe.

They generally only serve city centres. They may be limited in availability, particularly late at night and during peak hours.

• Avoid boarding taxis at taxi stands or flagging taxis in the street
• If using hotel taxis, request the service at the front desk
• When travelling by air, pre-arrange your pickup with your hotel before your arrival or use authorized airport taxis
• Note the driver's name on the picture identification badge, as well as the licence number
• Never share a taxi with strangers
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills available for payment

Ridesharing apps

Most vehicles used by these drivers are in poor condition.

Travellers have also reported that vehicle information and drivers' name rarely match the information they receive when using some ridesharing apps in Algeria.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Algerian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months before the date you expect to leave Algeria.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required

You must obtain a visa from the embassy or the closest consulate before visiting Algeria.

Students must travel on a tourist visa.

Children and travel

Children born to Algerian fathers automatically acquire Algerian citizenship at birth, regardless of where they were born.

Canadian minors born to Algerian fathers must produce paternal authorization to leave the country if they are:

• travelling alone, or
• without one of their parents or legal guardians.

Algerian law considers a person to be a minor until age 19.

Confirm the requirements with the Embassy of Algeria before departing Canada.

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Algeria.

If you take prescription medication, you are responsible for determining its legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is available in major cities, mainly in the northern part of the country. Access to good health care may be difficult in the south due to a lack of specialized professionals. 

Public clinics and hospitals may be overloaded. Public facilities may lack medical supplies and equipment. Doctors may not speak English.

Private clinics and hospitals are better equipped. Services may be expensive, but they usually have sufficient qualified medical personnel speaking English well.  

Doctors and private hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Penalties for breaking the law in Algeria can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. No transfer of offenders treaty exists between Canada and Algeria. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in Algeria. You may also have to remain in Algeria for a parole period after your release.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect a jail sentence and a heavy fine.

Alcohol

The consumption of alcohol in public is illegal.

Avoid drinking alcohol outside licensed premises.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Algerian law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex. 2SLGBTQI+ persons may also be charged with offences of indecency or other related offences.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could also be discriminated against or detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. Convicted offenders could face up to 3 years of imprisonment and heavy fines.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Algeria.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Death penalty

Although capital punishment has not been applied since 1993, you may still face the death penalty if you’re found guilty of serious offences.

Dress and behaviour

Algerian customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs.

Public displays of affection, including holding hands and kissing, are not socially accepted.

Foreign female travellers are not expected to wear head covers. However, revealing clothing is considered inappropriate.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions
• seek permission from locals before photographing them

Ramadan

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

Religious proselytism

Religious proselytism is illegal.

You should avoid engaging in religious activities that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values. This includes preaching, possessing, or distributing religious literature or material.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Algeria.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Algeria, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Dual citizens

Algerian authorities have prevented dual Canadian-Algerian citizens from leaving Algeria after they took part in demonstrations or made political comments on social media.

Be aware of the possibility of surveillance and potential repercussions if you discuss the political situation in public or online.

Mandatory military service

Algerian men over the age of 19 are subject to mandatory military service.

Local authorities may prevent you from leaving the country if you’re a dual Canadian-Algerian citizen and are unable to produce either:

• a deferment card exempting you from military service
• a certificate of census registration
• evidence that you have completed your military service

Obtain a document certifying your status from the Embassy of Algeria before travel.

Family law

Algerian family law is different from Canadian family law. Decisions are based on Islamic law. Children of an Algerian father automatically acquire Algerian citizenship at birth.

If you are involved in a custody dispute in Algeria, consult an Algerian lawyer for advice and assistance regarding your specific situation.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Algeria.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Algeria by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Algeria to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.

• Carry photo identification at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa in a safe place, in case they are lost or confiscated

Photography

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:

• military sites
• government buildings
• bridges

Seek permission before taking photos of official buildings and individuals.

Export of antiquities

Laws on purchasing and exporting antiquities and objects of particular significance to Algeria's cultural heritage are strict. Algerian antiquities and other cultural artifacts cannot be exported.

Obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities.

Driving

To drive in Algeria, you must have the following:

• a valid Canadian driver’s licence
• an international driving permit

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency of Algeria is the Algerian dinar (DZD).

Algeria is a cash-based economy. Credit cards are usually accepted at major hotels but rarely in restaurants and other businesses.

ATMs accepting foreign cards are available in banks and a few major hotels, but they are unreliable.

Customs

You must declare all foreign currency upon arrival. You must also report each exchange of currency made during your stay.

Currency exchange or purchase on the black market is illegal.

Upon departure, you must present the following:

• the currency declaration form issued on arrival
• bank receipts for all your exchange transactions

Algerian dinars cannot be taken out of the country.

Natural disasters and climate

Wildfires

Wildfires are common between July and August, particularly in the northern part of the country.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation

Météo Algérie - National Weather Service (in French)

Heat waves

The Sahara can be very hot, especially in the summer, with temperatures well above 40°C.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Dust storms

Sand storms and dust storms may occur at any time, particularly during the summer months in the southern area.

Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. Poor visibility can also affect flights. These storms can cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal for some individuals.

During a storm:

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to March. It can lead to severe flooding, especially in the North of the country.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Earthquakes

Algeria is located in an active seismic zone.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Earthquakes - What to Do?