How to Enter Algeria
Do I need a passport or visa to enter?
Passports and visas are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Algeria. The Algerian visa application must be typed in all capital letters. The Algerian Embassy no longer accepts handwritten visa applications. Algerian-American dual nationals can enter Algeria either with an Algerian visa in their U.S. passports or with their Algerian passports. We recommend that such dual nationals travel to Algeria using an Algerian visa in their U.S. passports. For the most current information on entry/exit requirements, travelers may contact the Embassy of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria at 2137 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 265-2800.The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Algeria.
Special Travel Circumstances in Algeria
ALL foreign currency brought into Algeria should be disclosed when entering the country. While this requirement is not publicized when entering the country, upon arrival you should ask a customs official for a form to declare foreign currency. Each person leaving Algeria will be stopped and asked if he/she has any foreign money and will possibly be searched. If the foreign currency was declared when entering the country, any disparity between the amounts arrived with, and the amounts held at departure must be accounted for. If a traveler failed to declare any currency when entering Algeria and is found to possess foreign currency while exiting the country, the penalties may be severe.
Foreign currency must be exchanged only at banks or authorized currency exchange locations, such as major hotels. Photography of military and government installations is prohibited. It is also illegal to import weapons, body armor, handcuffs, or binoculars.
Consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Algeria. Penalties may include fines and imprisonment. Although the U.S. Embassy is not aware of any recent arrests or prosecutions for such activities, they remain illegal.
Islam is the state religion of Algeria. The Algerian government allows non-Muslim religious worship only in structures exclusively intended and approved for that purpose. Activities such as proselytizing and encouraging conversion to another faith are prohibited. Penalties may include fines and imprisonment.
Disclaimer
You are responsible for ensuring that you meet and comply with foreign entry requirements, and health requirements and that you possess the appropriate travel documents. Information provided is subject to change without notice. One should confirm content prior to traveling from other reliable sources. Information published on this website may contain errors. You travel at your own risk and no warranties or guarantees are provided by us.