Algeria

There's a high threat of terrorist attack in Algeria.

We regularly receive information about terrorists planning attacks in Algeria.

A terror attack could occur anywhere and at any time.

Recent terror attacks include:

• In 2018, a bomb attack near an army vehicle killed 5 Algerian soldiers near Tebessa, south-east of Algiers.
• In 2017, an attack on the police headquarters in Tiaret, 130km south-west of Algiers, killed 2 police officers.
• In 2013, at least 37 foreign employees and 1 local worker were killed in an attack on a gas plant at In Amenas.

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 straight away 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:

• Terrorism

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:

• Kidnapping

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Presidential elections will take place on 12 December 2019. The security situation in the lead up to, during and soon after the election may be unpredictable.

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:

• Demonstrations

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

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.

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

You'll probably need a special policy for 'do not travel' destinations. Some Australian policies may not cover you for such high-risk travel.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

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.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

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:

• Medications

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:

• Infectious diseases

Other infectious diseases

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are prevalent. This includes:

• tuberculosis
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• meningitis
• rabies

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 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.

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:

• Carrying and using drugs

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:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Death penalty

Serious crime, such as murder or treason, may attract the death penalty.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law

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:

• Embassy of Algeria

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:

• Dual nationals

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 will be from late April to late May in 2020. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

Avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public and in the presence of people who are fasting.

The normal work week in Algeria is Sunday to Thursday.

Visitor 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.

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:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

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.  

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.

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:

• Driving or riding

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. If you can, arrange them through your hotel.

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:

• Going on a cruise

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:

• Air travel

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.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

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: www.canadianinternational.gc.ca/algeria-agerie
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
Fax: (+33) 1 4059 3315
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