Tourism, business, family, studies or press: everything you need to know to prepare your application properly
Would you like to visit, invest, study or join your family in Algeria? In 2025, the country offers 13 types of visa to suit every situation. This practical guide will help you identify the right visa, prepare your application and optimise your chances of obtaining one, whether you are a tourist, a businessman or a future resident.
The 13 types of visa available for Algeria in 2025
1. Tourist visa
To visit Algeria alone, as a couple or on a guided tour.
- Duration: up to 90 days
- Documents: valid passport, hotel reservation, itinerary, travel insurance
- Where to apply: Algerian consulate or specialist agency
2. Business visa
Reserved for investors, company directors or foreign representatives.
- Documents: invitation from an Algerian company, letter of assignment, proof of professional activity, etc
- Purposes: prospecting, signing contracts, taking part in trade fairs, etc
3. Work visa
For foreign nationals with an employment contract in Algeria.
- Documents: authorisation from the labour inspectorate, contract signed with a local company
- Special feature: may be upgraded to a long-term residence application
4. Settlement visa (long stay)
To settle permanently in Algeria for personal reasons.
- Documents: marriage certificate (if Algerian spouse), proof of income, rental contract, etc
- Please note: it is possible to obtain a residence permit
5. Family visa
To visit a relative living in Algeria.
- Documents: letter of invitation, birth or marriage certificate, proof of accommodation
6. Cultural or events visa
To take part in an artistic event, trade fair or conference.
- Documents: official invitation, programme, proof of participation
7. Student visa
For students enrolled at an Algerian university or institute.
- Documents: registration certificate, proof of means, health insurance, guaranteed accommodation
8. Press visa
For journalists, photographers, film-makers and international media.
- Procedure: application to the Algerian Ministry of Communication
- Documents: accreditation, shooting plan or editorial diary
9. Mission visa
For experts, technicians or consultants on temporary assignments.
- Documents: mission letter from the employer or authority concerned
- Duration: limited to the duration of the assignment
10. Medical visa
To receive planned treatment in Algeria.
- Documents: hospital convocation, medical certificate, health insurance, sufficient resources
11. Transit visa
For a short stopover before reaching another destination.
- Documents: flight ticket to the final country, visa for that country if required
- Duration: 1 to 5 days maximum
12. Family reunion visa
To legally join a spouse or relative living in Algeria.
- Documents: marriage or birth certificate, proof of residence of the family member
13. Diplomatic or service visa
For diplomats, state representatives or staff of official missions.
- Documents: note verbale or authorisation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
How to obtain an Algerian visa in 2025
- Choose the type of visa best suited to your personal or professional situation
- Assemble the original photocopied documents (certified if necessary)
- Have the supporting documents translated into French or Arabic
- Make an appointment with the Algerian consulate in your area
- Pay the consular fees (between €60 and €130 depending on the type of visa and your nationality)
- Respect the processing times: on average 7 to 30 days
Practical advice for a successful visa application
- Check the official websites of Algerian consulates for the latest updates
- Submit your application 4 to 6 weeks before your departure
- Prepare a clear and complete application, including all the required documents
- If your application is refused, you can lodge an appeal or adapt your application
- If you have dual nationality, remember to apply for your Algerian consular card: it facilitates many procedures
