Algeria

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks in Algeria. Algerian security forces are usually the primary targets, but civilians have been killed and injured in past attacks.

Counter-terrorism operations in the past years have diminished the terrorism threat level in the country, but a terror attack could still occur anywhere and at any time.

Recent terror attacks include:

• September 2024: two civilians were killed, and three soldiers were injured in an attack in Beni Snouss
• October 2021: 3 civilians were seriously injured by IED explosions in Tebessa and Batna
• January 2021: a roadside bomb killed 5 Algerian citizens in Tebessa.

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 the Kasbah in central Algiers

Algerian security forces have a strong presence. Despite this, the threat continues.

Possible targets for attacks include:

• Foreign businesses, foreign embassies and expatriate 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 foreigners
• 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

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk.

Kidnapping by criminals and terrorists occurs in Algeria, particularly in and around major cities, including Algiers.

Kidnappings can occur in the Kabylie region in northeast Algeria and in the trans-Sahara region in the south, as well as in the South-West and in remote border areas. The threat is high in the Djanet district in Illizi province and Tamanrasset province.

If despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited. 

You're responsible for your own safety. To reduce the risk of being kidnapped:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings - avoid distractions. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if you sense danger
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk. It is essential to have a contingency plan
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• vary your movements so you don't set predictable patterns
• keep a low profile – including online. Drawing attention to yourself in high-risk areas may signal to criminals that you have something worth taking
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone. There is safety in numbers, and you should try to travel with someone else, especially at night
• notify family or friends of planned travel; share your location and emergency contacts that they can rely on if something happens
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone. Criminals have been known to search social media for victims
• If you are confronted by armed criminals, it is best to surrender and cooperate – resistance tends to make the situation worse

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:

• Kidnapping
• Scams that affect travellers
• Reducing the risk of piracy

Public demonstrations and protests require official permission, and unauthorised protests can result in arrest and detention. 

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.

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.

Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help if there are transport disruptions.

More information:

• Demonstrations

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 in deserted beach areas, even during daylight hours.

Some criminals pose as police officers or set up illegal roadblocks. 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

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security 

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
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family

Our ability to provide consular services may be very limited.

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Insect-borne diseases

Insect-borne diseases are widespread in Algeria. This includes chikungunya, leishmaniasis and West Nile virus. 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.

Other infectious diseases

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

• tuberculosis
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• meningitis
• rabies
• polio (poliomyelitis)

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

If you're staying more than 4 weeks in Algeria, you may need to show proof of polio vaccination when you leave the country.

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.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information

• Infectious diseases

There’s no agreement between Australia and Algeria for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

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.

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrest. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

Drugs

Drug use, possession, and trafficking are illegal in Algeria, with severe penalties. Foreigners caught with drugs face long prison sentences and heavy fines. Trafficking may also attract the death penalty. 

More information:

• Carrying and using drugs

Alcohol

Alcohol consumption is legal in Algeria but only allowed in licensed hotels, restaurants, and bars. It's illegal to be under the influence of alcohol in a public place. 

Other laws

In Algeria, it's illegal to:

• engage in same-sex relationships
• 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 LGBTQIA+ travellers

Death penalty

The death penalty may be imposed for a range of crimes, such as murder, terrorism and drug trafficking.

Algeria doesn't recognise dual nationality.

Being a dual citizen 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 need their father's written consent to leave Algerian territory. This includes 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. Research 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 holy 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.

Visas 

You'll need a visa to enter Algeria. You must get a visa in advance.

Only tourists arriving and departing by cruise ship can get visas on arrival. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for information about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

International flights and domestic flights are operational. The land border with Morocco remains closed. Contact your travel agent or the airline directly for more information and bookings. 

Yellow fever vaccination

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Algeria. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

This rule doesn't apply to children younger than 12 months.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

The currency is the Algerian Dinar (DZD). It's illegal to import or export DZD.

To avoid risks, only change money at:

• an exchange bureau at international airports or large hotels
• commercial banks in major cities

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 (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

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. Use radio-dispatch taxis within Algiers and taxi-hailing apps, rather than hailing off the street. Your hotel may also be able to help you book one.

Public transport

Avoid buses due to their unreliability. Buses are also often the site of theft and sexual harassment incidents.

Sea travel

A number of international cruise liners visit Algeria.

More information:

• Going on a cruise

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t give advice about how safe different airlines or flight paths are.

Safety risks and weather events may cause flight delays and cancellations. Contact your travel agent or airline to confirm your plans.

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 14.

Medical emergencies

Call 1021.

Police

Call 17 or 1548.

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.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist 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, Algiers

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, Paris

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
X: @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