Maximum Alerts / Algeria
Level published by the State Department on 24.08.2026 · read 16 October 2026 · source checked daily
Algeria — official level as of 16 October 2026: Level 1/4 ("Exercise Normal Precautions"), from the U.S. Department of State. Maximum Insurance covers this country: hospital settled directly, unlimited repatriation, EUR 1.5M, certificate on payment.
Every country has its own scale, so we ask them all the same question: is the whole country advised against?
An advisory covering only areas of the country does not raise the answer: it stays “No”, and the area is shown in the relevant column.
The level shown on this page — and across this site — is the one published by the U.S. State Department, from 1 (normal precautions) to 4 (do not travel). France and the United Kingdom publish their own advisories, with their own rules: they add to that level, they do not replace it.
In a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: +41 22 ••• •• •• — 24/7 support number, an adviser stays with you to the end.
The 207 country pages — hospitals, pharmacies, police, embassies, emergency numbers, official advice from four governments, health, safety in figures, events in progress — read around the city you name. Your policy — benefits, the six steps, claims, articles. The site — prices, certificate, subscription. Nothing else: what it does not know, it says so and hands you to an adviser.
What I say on the phone
What to do, in this order
In immediate danger, call local emergency services first. Then contact assistance without delay; before engaging a service, seek approval under your policy. Cover is confirmed by the insurer.
Ask assistance where to get care and whether direct cover can be arranged. It confirms the facility and seeks the insurer's approval under your policy. In immediate danger, call local emergency services first.
Even for a pain you meant to shrug off. Without a medical certificate written on the spot, the same day, the insurer cannot cover the event — a certificate written after you return does not count.
The hospital desk sends the request to assistance. Direct payment depends on the insurer's approval and the policy; the call alone does not guarantee it. Have the response confirmed before relying on no up-front payment.
In a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services immediately. For an arranged transfer or repatriation, contact assistance: the insurer's medical team decides on measures under the policy. A medical flight booked without approval may not be reimbursed.
Even if everything went well on the ground. Send your invoices and the medical report within 30 days; after that, compensation may be reduced or refused.
Places read from OpenStreetMap, within a circle of about 12 km: phone, email, address, website and hours when the source publishes them. No customer reviews, that source has none. Straight-line distances.
Notices vary by bank and vintage — yours prevails. On the right: the Maximum contract (public documents).
The country is not uniform: 7 regions advised against, fully or partly, by at least one official reading. Algiers is not one of them.
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
“(France Diplomatie)”: the level comes from its text, in French, quoted below region by region.
the trip stays outside the advised-against regions. Any move into a red or orange region calls for a new, written decision. The areas quoted without a region (border, routes, localities) call for the same decision.
France Diplomatie (in French)
Wilaya d’Aïn Defla : des groupes terroristes subsistent dans la région.
France Diplomatie (in French)
Wilaya de Batna : des groupes terroristes résiduels subsistent dans les massifs montagneux.
Foreign Office
FCDO advises against all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with: Tunisia – in the provinces of Illizi and Ouargla and in the Chaambi mountains area
Foreign Office
FCDO advises against all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with: Tunisia – in the provinces of Illizi and Ouargla and in the Chaambi mountains area
France Diplomatie (in French)
Wilaya de Sétif : des trafics subsistent autour de ce centre urbain.
France Diplomatie (in French)
A l’est : il convient d’éviter la zone frontalière avec la Tunisie, à partir et au sud de Tébessa (présence de groupes terroristes) ainsi que la zone frontalière avec la Libye du fait de l’instabilité du pays. Le poste frontière avec la Libye est par ailleurs fermé.
France Diplomatie (in French)
Région de Tindouf, à l’ouest : cette région accueille des camps de réfugiés sahraouis, en situation de grande vulnérabilité, dans une région politiquement sensible et sous fort contrôle militaire.
Global Affairs Canada — Advised against — all travel
within 200 km of the border with Mali, Mauritania and Niger
Global Affairs Canada — Advised against — all travel
within 50 km of the border with Libya
Global Affairs Canada — Advised against — all travel
within 50 km of the border with Tunisia, except for travel by land to/from Tunisia via the N44 highway and the Oum Tboul border crossing, where you should exercise a high degree of caution
Global Affairs Canada — Advised against — all travel
Avoid all travel to the area within 50 km of the border with Morocco due to the increased military presence, the unstable security situation and the difficulty of finding the border’s exact location.
Foreign Office — Advised against — all travel
FCDO advises against all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with: Libya
Foreign Office — Advised against — all travel
FCDO advises against all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with: Mauritania
Foreign Office — Advised against — all travel
FCDO advises against all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with: Mali
Foreign Office — Advised against — all travel
FCDO advises against all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with: Niger
Foreign Office — Advised against — all but essential travel
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 30km of the rest of Algeria’s border with Tunisia.
France Diplomatie (in French) — Advised against — all travel
Zones frontalières : l’Algérie compte 6 400 kilomètres de frontières terrestres, notamment avec des pays en situation d’instabilité et connaissant un risque terroriste élevé (Libye, Mali, Niger). Malgré un dispositif sécuritaire important, les frontières ne sont pas étanches. De nombreux trafics et activités de contrebande menés par des réseaux transfrontali
France Diplomatie (in French) — Advised against — all travel
A l’ouest : la frontière algéro-marocaine, qui demeure fermée, est sous étroite surveillance avec une intensification significative des contrôles tout au long de celle-ci.
France Diplomatie (in French) — Advised against — all but essential travel
Au nord-est, le massif des Aurès : des groupes terroristes résiduels subsistent dans les zones montagneuses.
France Diplomatie (in French) — Advised against — all but essential travel
Le massif de Chréa : des trafics subsistent dans les zones montagneuses.
France Diplomatie (in French) — Advised against — all but essential travel
Frontière terrestre avec le Maroc : la frontière est fermée depuis août 1994 et reste une zone sous tension. Il est fortement déconseillé de s’en approcher.
France Diplomatie (in French) — Advised against — all but essential travel
Région de Hassi Messaoud : cette région accueille des champs pétroliers et gaziers sous fort contrôle militaire.
Global Affairs Canada — Open Government Licence – Canada (15.10.2026) · Foreign Office — Open Government Licence v3.0 · France Diplomatie (02.03.2026) · Natural Earth
No located event in this reading.
Last change: Updated information about customs rules, terrorism in Algeria, political situation and personal ID (‘Entry requirements’ and ‘Safety and security’ pages).
Updated 24.08.2026
Exercise increased caution in Algeria due to terrorism and kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Terrorism remains a possible threat in Algeria. Terrorist attacks have historically targeted Algerian security forces. Attacks are possible in both rural and urban areas despite a heavy and active police presence. Kidnapping for ransom events in Algeria’s deep south have targeted foreigners in recent years.
The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens outside Algiers province. This is due to the size of the country, as well as the Algerian government’s travel restrictions on U.S. government employees.
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Algeria. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Do Not Travel to:
Algeria: Floods - Jan 2026ReliefWeb ↗read 16.10.20262026-02-03
Algeria: Floods - May 2025ReliefWeb ↗read 16.10.20262025-05-30
Source: ReliefWeb (OCHA), via HDX — CC BY
10-16 6.1 · 10-17 6.1 · 10-18 6.1 · 10-19 6.2 · 10-20 6.5 · 10-21 9.0 · 10-22 7.9 m³/s
Simulated discharge: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Emergency Management Service information 2026. For information only: this is not a flood warning; only national or regional authorities issue those.
The level is national. Risk areas are in the state advisories below.
No major event in progress is located in this country at this morning's check.
Reading: The homicide rate is above Switzerland's, without being out of range. On the road, 9 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.
World Bank (UNODC for homicides, WHO for roads) — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026
What we locate on the map are events in progress that have real coordinates: USGS earthquakes, GDACS disasters, NOAA storms and open NASA EONET events. Hover a dot for details, click to open it in this briefing.
French passport — France Diplomatie
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
Some areas of the country are formally advised against.France Diplomatie ↗updated 02.03.2026 · read 15.10.2026
Vigilance areas — France Diplomatie (in French) updated 02.03.2026official map ↗updated 02.03.2026 · read 15.10.2026
- Présentation de l'Algérie
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Dernière actualisation le 02/03/2026, information toujours valable à la date du jour
Sahara et zones désertiques (autour de Tamanrasset)
Les forces de sécurité restent engagées dans la lutte contre les réseaux qui subsistent sur son territoire. La menace persiste, à un niveau réduit. Des groupes terroristes (AQMI et EI) sont toujours présents de manière résiduelle. Des opérations sont menées régulièrement pour démanteler les cellules terroristes et leurs réseaux logistiques et de soutien. Le dispositif sécuritaire est important dans les grands centres urbains, notamment Alger et Oran, y garantissant un niveau de sécurité satisfaisant, sous réserve d’y respecter les règles élémentaires de vigilance. La dégradation de la sécurité dans les pays du Sahel, et notamment au Niger et plus encore au Mali, accroit en revanche les risques dans les zones frontalières avec ces pays.
L’engagement de la France dans la lutte contre le terrorisme international fait des intérêts et des ressortissants français une cible déclarée des groupes terroristes.
Il convient donc d’être attentif à l’évolution de la situation sécuritaire, notamment pour tous les déplacements et de se conformer strictement aux instructions que les autorités algériennes peuvent donner localement.
Il convient de respecter les règles élémentaires de vigilance (mise en sureté de ses objets personnels de valeur, moyens de paiement, téléphones et ordinateurs portables, papiers d’identité, lieux désertés par le public la nuit tombée…).
Afin de respecter les us et coutumes locaux, il est conseillé d’adapter sa tenue et son comportement (cf. onglet Infos utiles).
Afin de limiter tout risque d’agression et de vol, il est vivement conseillé de limiter ses déplacements aux axes routiers principaux. Des risques de banditisme et de brigandage existent sur les routes de montagne et les axes routiers secondaires.
L’état des routes s’est considérablement amélioré ces dernières années. Circuler sur les routes algériennes nécessite néanmoins prudence et adaptation.
Les routes nationales sont généralement bien entretenues. Parfois étroites, elles génèrent un trafic intense. La circulation peut y être dangereuse en raison d’habitudes de conduite différentes, des infractions fréquentes au code de la route ou de comportements imprévisibles de la part des chauffeurs de transports collectifs (grands taxis, autocars, camions). Les accidents de la route font chaque année de nombreuses victimes.
Les 115 000 km du réseau routier et autoroutier sont de construction récente. Les infrastructures autoroutières (aires d’arrêt, postes de secours, etc.) et les équipements de sécurité de qualité sont toutefois peu nombreux. Pour de longues distances, le réseau routier doit être évité au profit des liaisons aériennes.
L’Algérie, située à la convergence entre les plaques Eurasie et Afrique, est une zone à forte sismicité. Les principales failles actives sont localisées au niveau de l’Atlas. Au cours de son histoire, le pays a connu plusieurs séismes destructeurs (1715, 1954, 1980 et 2003) et enregistre chaque année plusieurs tremblements de terre d’ampleur modérée.
Pour plus d’informations sur la conduite à tenir en cas de séisme, consulter la fiche " Séismes ".
Il convient de faire preuve de grande prudence et de vigilance renforcée pour éviter tout désagrément pendant son séjour : ne pas photographier de bâtiments officiels algériens, d’ambassades ou consulats étrangers ; ne pas faire usage de drones, jumelles ou GPS, dont l’introduction sur le territoire algérien est soumise à des autorisations très restrictives ; être vigilant aux appréciations portées, sur les réseaux sociaux, ayant trait à la situation locale. La captation photographique ou vidéo de personnes dans l’espace public peut également être sensible et mal perçue, pouvant le cas échéant causer des difficultés avec la police voire avec la justice locale.
Toute activité de production de contenu ayant vocation à être publié en ligne (blogs, réseaux sociaux) peut être assimilée par les autorités locales à une pratique journalistique, laquelle est strictement encadrée en Algérie. Tout visiteur ayant l’intention de se prêter à ce type d’activité, y compris à titre non professionnel, est invité à le déclarer dès le dépôt de sa demande de visa auprès du consulat algérien. A défaut, le voyageur est susceptible d’être interpellé par les autorités locales durant son séjour (contrôles voire poursuites). Dans le cadre d’une activité professionnelle, une demande d’accréditation doit être déposée auprès du consulat algérien (cf. visas). Une fois le visa correspondant obtenu, l’utilisation de matériel professionnel, scientifique ou pédagogique (notamment caméras, appareils photos…) peut être facilitée par la présentation d’un carnet ATA (Admission Temporaire) à l’arrivée à l’aéroport.
Il convient d’éviter les rassemblements de population et les manifestations.
En cas de déplacements avec une escorte locale, il convient de circuler à un rythme raisonnable sans chercher à tout…
Comme sur les routes, des comportements inappropriés et dangereux sont observés en matière de conduite des véhicules nautiques à moteur. Une grande vigilance est nécessaire si un jet-ski navigue à proximité des lieux de baignade, d’autant que les zones de baignade ne sont pas séparées des zones de navigation des jet-skis.
Full text of the Security pagediplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 02.03.2026 · read 15.10.2026
Swiss passport — FDFA (Switzerland), in French
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
FDFA update note — Le chapitre Risques régionaux spécifiques a été actualisé (sud et sud-est du pays). (published 27.02.2026)
Une attention particulière doit être accordée à la sécurité personnelle. Il est déconseillé de se rendre dans certaines parties du pays. L'instabilité sécuritaire dans la région touche principalement le sud du pays et l'ensemble de la zone frontalière. Le risque d'attentats et d'enlèvements est élevé dans les zones frontalières avec la Tunisie, la Libye, le Niger, le Mali, la Mauritanie et à proximité du Sahara occidental. Des groupes criminels, armés ou terroristes sont actifs dans une grande partie de cette région. Les autorités algériennes mènent des opérations de lutte contre le terrorisme; toutefois le risque d'attentats terroristes est présent dans tout le pays. Dans certaines régions, la menace terroriste est élevée (voir chapitre Risques régionaux spécifiques). Les attaques terroristes visent principalement les institutions publiques et les forces de sécurité, mais peuvent également toucher des entreprises étrangères et des lieux fréquentés par des ressortissants étrangers. Il existe un risque que des ressortissants étrangers soient victimes d’actes isolés. Des bandes armées et des groupes terroristes, qui vivent de contrebande et d'enlèvements contre rançon, sévissent dans une grande partie du Sahara. Ils sont bien organisés, opèrent sans tenir compte des frontières, et ont des contacts avec des groupes criminels locaux. Le risque d'enlèvement est élevé dans certaines régions; les ressortissants étrangers peuvent également être victimes d’enlèvements (voir le chapitre Risques régionaux spécifiques). Le risque d’enlèvement ne peut pas être exclu dans les autres parties du pays. Veuillez également tenir compte des informations figurant sur nos pages Internet spécifiques: Terrorisme et enlèvements Risque d’enlèvement dans le Sahara et le Sahel Des manifestations peuvent avoir lieu, en particulier dans les villes. Des affrontements violents entre les manifestants et les forces de sécurité ne peuvent être exclus. Des grèves sont également possibles. Il convient notamment d’observer les précautions suivantes:
La description des zones à risques repose sur des données approximatives; les risques ne peuvent se restreindre à des zones délimitées. Kabylie (nord-est) Il est déconseillé de se rendre dans les zones reculées de la Kabylie (régions montagneuses). La Kabylie reste le théâtre de troubles. Dans les zones reculées, le risque d’enlèvement est élevé. De temps en temps, des affrontements armés entre l’armée et des groupes terroristes ou d'autres groupes armés se produisent. Zone frontalière avec le Maroc Il est déconseillé de se rendre dans la région frontalière avec le Maroc pour des voyages touristiques ou non urgents. La frontière terrestre avec le Maroc est fermée. Dans cette région il y a encore des champs de mines. Empruntez exclusivement les routes les plus fréquentées et informez-vous auprès des autorités locales et/ou de votre guide en cas de doute. Nord-est du pays et zones frontalières avec la Tunisie Il est largement déconseillé de se rendre dans les zones frontalières avec la Tunisie. Faites preuve d’une prudence accrue dans les autres régions, en particulier dans les provinces de Tébessa, Batna et Khenchela. Il existe un risque élevé d’attentats et d’ enlèvements. Dans cette région des bandes de terroristes sont actives. Elles sont bien organisées, prédisposées à la violence et elles opèrent sans tenir compte des frontières. Des combats occasionnels ont lieu entre les forces de sécurité et des groupes terroristes. En outre, des champs de mines subsistent encore. Sud-est et sud Il est déconseillé de se rendre dans les provinces/zones frontalières suivantes: Provinces frontalières avec la Libye et le Niger: Tamanrasset, Djanet, Illizi Provinces du sud, frontière avec le Niger et le Mali: In Guezzam, Bordj Baji Mokhtar Dans les provinces d'Adrar et de Tindouf, il faut éviter toute la zone frontalière avec la Maurétanie et le Mali. La situation sécuritaire en Libye, au Niger et au Mali accentue les problèmes de sécurité. La proximité de la zone sahélienne et la perméabilité des frontières permettent aux réseaux terroristes et criminels d'opérer et de se coordonner plus facilement. Les personnes étrangères peuvent également être victimes d'homicides et d'enlèvements. Le risque terroriste est élevé.
La petite délinquance est surtout présente dans les grandes villes comme Alger, Constantine et Oran. Le harcèlement sexuel des femmes est fréquent selon les endroits. Outre les mesures de précaution habituelles, veuillez également respecter les points suivants:
Des tremblements de terre peuvent occasionnellement se produire au nord du pays. Dans le bassin méditerranéen, il n’est pas exclu qu’un séisme ou une éruption volcanique provoque un tsunami qui atteigne toutes les zones côtières de la Méditerranée. Lors de fortes pluies, les petits ruisseaux asséchés (oueds) peuvent se transformer très rapidement en fleuves impétueux. Notamment dans les montagnes, les conditions météorologiques peuvent changer rapidement. La circulation peut s’en trouver temporairement perturbée. En été, il existe un important risque d’incendie de forêt à de nombreux endroits . Suivez les prévisions météorologiques ainsi que les mises en garde et les instructions des autorités locales, notamment en ce qui concerne les ordres d’évacuation. Météo Algérie Si une catastrophe naturelle devait se produire durant votre séjour, prenez immédiatement contact avec vos proches et suivez les instructions des autorités locales. En cas d’interruption des communications avec l’étranger, vous pouvez vous mettre en liaison avec l’Ambassade de Suisse à Alger.
FDFA travel advice, in French, valid on 15.10.2026eda.admin.ch ↗updated 27.02.2026 · read 15.10.2026
British passport — Foreign Office (UK)
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
Regions covered by the Foreign Officegov.uk ↗updated 25.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
Warnings — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 25.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
FCDO advises against all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 30km of the rest of Algeria’s border with Tunisia.
Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .
Safety — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 25.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .
Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Algeria.
Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
There is also a risk that lone actors target foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
The threat from terrorism is higher in some parts of the country, including:
The terrorist threat comes from individuals inspired by Islamist extremist and anti-Semitic ideology and established groups, such as Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb ( AQIM ). These groups have been active across the country and likely consider Western nationals legitimate targets.
The Algerian authorities conduct effective counter-terrorism operations and retain a strong, visible security presence across the country.
There is a threat of kidnapping by groups operating in North Africa, particularly from Libya, Mauritania and groups originating in the Sahel. This includes AQIM and Daesh-affiliated groups, who may travel across the region’s porous border. There is a heightened risk of kidnap in border and remote desert areas of North Africa, particularly in the southern and eastern border areas (bordering Mali and Libya respectively). Terrorist groups have kidnapped foreigners, government officials and civilians in the region for financial gain and for political leverage.
British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.
The long-standing policy of the British government is to not make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) also makes payments to terrorists illegal.
Algeria has a visible security presence across the country that gives considerable attention to the safety of its visitors. Demonstrations and other forms of protest are subject to various restrictions. You should take precautions for your personal safety by avoiding political gatherings and demonstrations. Follow instructions given by local security authorities.
The land border between Algeria and Morocco is closed. Do not attempt to cross it.
The Algerian authorities do not always inform the British Embassy when British nationals have been arrested. If you are detained, insist on your right to contact the British Embassy.
It can take time for the British Embassy to get the necessary permission to visit you.
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American passport — U.S. Department of State
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
Algeria - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution 2026-08-24travel.state.gov ↗updated 24.08.2026 · read 16.10.2026
Exercise increased caution in Algeria due to terrorism and kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Terrorism remains a possible threat in Algeria. Terrorist attacks have historically targeted Algerian security forces. Attacks are possible in both rural and urban areas despite a heavy and active police presence. Kidnapping for ransom events in Algeria’s deep south have targeted foreigners in recent years.
The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens outside Algiers province. This is due to the size of the country, as well as the Algerian government’s travel restrictions on U.S. government employees.
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Algeria. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Do Not Travel to:
Global Affairs Canada — additional reading
Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)
Avoid all travel to the following border areas due to the high threat of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping:
Avoid all travel to the area within 50 km of the border with Morocco due to the increased military presence, the unstable security situation and the difficulty of finding the border’s exact location.
Open Government Licence – Canada · October 15, 2026 08:05 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 15.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026
Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.
Global Affairs Canada — written for Canadian travellers, valid for all
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.
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect a jail sentence and a heavy fine.
The consumption of alcohol in public is illegal. Avoid drinking alcohol outside licensed premises. Drugs, alcohol and travel
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
Although capital punishment has not been applied since 1993, you may still face the death penalty if you’re found guilty of serious offences.
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:
In 2027, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 7. In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:
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.
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:
Obtain a document certifying your status from the Embassy of Algeria before travel.
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.
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:
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.
Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.
Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:
Seek permission before taking photos of official buildings and individuals.
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.
Open Government Licence – Canada · October 15, 2026 08:05 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 15.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026
Foreign Office — laws and cultural differences
You will need your passport to check in to any hotels in Algeria. You do not have to carry your passport at all times, but take it with you on longer journeys. You must have your passport if you travel inside Algeria by air. Keep copies of your passport’s photo page and your visa or entry stamp in a separate place.
Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, next starting in February 2027. During this time, do not:
Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts. You should also:
It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place.
There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences. The penalties for trafficking, smuggling, using and possessing illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty depending upon the severity of the offence.
Mobile phone coverage can be patchy or unavailable in more remote areas, particularly in the south of Algeria. Some online maps may not be accurate in remote areas.
It is illegal to bring drones, binoculars, telescopes and certain types of photography equipment into Algeria without authorisation. If you have any doubt about items you plan to bring with you, contact the Algerian customs to check prior to your travel.
Sexual acts between people of the same sex are illegal in Algeria. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Algerian family law is different from UK law. Mothers cannot renew their children’s passports without written consent from the father. Fathers can renew their children’s passports without needing the mother’s consent. Algerian nationals, including dual-nationals, who enter the country on an Algerian passport, must leave the country on an Algerian passport, so if you are travelling with a child who has British-Algerian dual nationality, and you are unable to access a valid Algerian passport for them, you will not be able to bring the child out of Algeria without the father’s written consent or permission from the Algerian courts.
If you are a British male of Algerian origin, you may be liable for national service even if you have been living outside of Algeria. You can contact the Algerian consulate near you to check your status prior to travelling to Algeria.
Open Government Licence v3.0gov.uk ↗updated 25.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
FDFA (Switzerland) — laws and customs, in French
Entre autres, sont punissables:
Il existe des restrictions à l'importation de livres et d'objets à caractère religieux qui ne sont pas destinés à un usage personnel. Les infractions à la loi sur les stupéfiants sont sévèrement punies, même pour des petites quantités et quel que soit le type de drogue. Elles peuvent même être passibles de la peine de mort. L'importation, le change et la réexportation de devises sont soumis à des restrictions. Les conditions de détention sont précaires.
Il est recommandé d'adapter son comportement et sa tenue vestimentaire aux coutumes locales. Renseignez-vous dans les guides de voyages, auprès de votre agence ou directement sur place, sur les codes de conduite. Pendant le mois de jeûne du ramadan, des règles et prescriptions particulières doivent être respectées. En cas de mariage entre un étranger/une étrangère et un Algérien/une Algérienne, certaines lois et règles de conduite islamiques doivent être observées. Le mari a par exemple le droit, dans un cas extrême, d'empêcher sa femme et ses enfants de quitter l'Algérie, quelle que soit leur nationalité.
FDFA travel advice, in Frencheda.admin.ch ↗updated 27.02.2026 · read 15.10.2026
What it changes for you: Air acceptable at this hour: nothing special to plan.
Reading 09:00 (Africa/Algiers)Open-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026
Air quality and UV: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information 2026. Neither the European Commission nor ECMWF is responsible for any use that may be made of the Copernicus information or data it contains.
Reading: With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people (62% fewer than Switzerland), the nearest hospital does not always have the capacity for a serious case: evacuation to an adequate centre is the rule, not the exception — that is what unlimited evacuation and repatriation cover. Health spending of 233 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.
World Bank — latest published value, year per indicatordata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026
Live alerts and level changes, each with its official source. Continuously updated.
The Need help? section was updated.
October 15, 2026 08:05 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 15.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026No level change recorded for this country since the log opened. The live alerts above are updated continuously.
Level 1/4 — Exercise Normal Precautions, U.S. Department of State, retrieved on 16 October 2026.
Sourcestravel.state.gov · updated 24.08 · read 16.10France Diplomatie · updated 02.03 · read 15.10DFAE · updated 27.02 · read 15.10207-country comparison
An area advised against does not rule out the country.
SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 02.03 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 25.09 · read 15.10State Department · updated 24.08 · read 16.10
The rules depend on the passport, not on the destination alone.
SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 02.03 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 25.09 · read 15.10State Department · updated 24.08 · read 16.10
For a Schengen visa, yes: at least €30,000 of travel medical insurance (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009, art. 15).
SourcesRegulation (EC) 810/2009, art. 15General conditions, policy 20 00 479
VIP Pack — €990 for twelve months, unlimited trips.
SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479OpenStreetMap · read 12.10
Six steps, in this order.
SourcesSpecial conditions 01.26General conditions, policy 20 00 479
Local emergency services: police 1548 / 1055 / 17 · ambulance 14 · fire 14
SourcesEmergencyNumberAPI · Wikidata · read 08.10OpenStreetMap · read 12.10
At today's level 1/4, card by card:
SourcesAmex Platinum France T&Cs, 01.2025 — general exclusion n° 11BNP Paribas Visa Infinite notice (policy PT7), 04.2025 — comFortuneo World Elite Mastercard notice, 01.2026 — art. 5.5 '
A health plan reimburses at home; here, the hospital asks for a payment guarantee before admission.
SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479
Around Algiers: 80 hospitals and clinics, 32 with a 24/7 emergency room, 40 pharmacies, 40 doctors' practices (OpenStreetMap, hospital list read on 13.10.2026).
The sourced detail is under Medical network › Health: vaccines, diseases present, altitude, outbreaks.
SourcesCDC Travelers' Health · read 10.10France Diplomatie · updated 02.03 · read 15.10OMS · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 25.09 · read 15.10
1.7 physicians per 1,000 people (2022) versus 4.5 in Switzerland.
SourcesWorld Bank · read 10.10General conditions, policy 20 00 479
1.2 homicides per 100,000 people (2023) versus 0.6 in Switzerland and 1.3 in France.
The nearest representations, by passport (OpenStreetMap):
SourcesOpenStreetMap · read 12.10DFAE · updated 27.02 · read 15.10
7 regions advised against, fully or partly, by at least one official reading.
SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 15.10 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 25.09 · read 15.10France Diplomatie · updated 02.03 · read 15.10
Local laws apply to every traveller; here is what the official texts say.
SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 15.10 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 25.09 · read 15.10
Every foreign ministry runs a 24/7 emergency line for its nationals.
Sourcesdiplomatie.gouv.fr · updated 02.03 · read 15.10eda.admin.ch · updated 27.02 · read 15.10
Emergency phrases, transliterated; the original script, to show if pronunciation fails, is under Useful phrases.
SourcesMaximum Insurance
Keep the entry stamp, the invoices, the prescriptions and the medical report.
SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479
Cancellation or change up to EUR 20,000, special risk EUR 5,000 per person, crisis management and security, optional Kidnap & Ransom.
SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479
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The 207 country pages — hospitals, pharmacies, police, embassies, emergency numbers, official advice from four governments, health, safety in figures, events in progress — read around the city you name. Your policy — benefits, the six steps, claims, articles. The site — prices, certificate, subscription. Nothing else: what it does not know, it says so and hands you to an adviser.
The published advisory level is national, but risk is not: business hubs (Alger) do not share the profile of border areas. The medical network shown on this page is computed around Algiers — real hospitals, evacuation airport and live alerts. Before a specific trip, always cross-check your country of residence's advisory: that is what your policy cites.
Same advisory level: French Guiana · Georgia · Hungary · Ireland · Iceland · Japan
The displayed level comes from the State Department, checked every morning. Before departure, always cross-check your country of residence's advisory: that is what your policy cites.
The level shown is the official U.S. Department of State level, checked daily. Maximum Insurance is an insurance distributor — general information, not personal advice.
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Destination · Algiers
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