Algeriet

Översikt

The security environment in Algeria has improved since the end of the civil war, but its legacy still haunts the country, blocking attempts for political change. The capital, Algiers, has not been hit by any major terrorist attack since 2007, but the threat of terrorism is still relevant, most of all to the east of the capital in the Kabylie region, which includes the provinces of Boumerdes, Bouira and Tizi Ouzou, as well as along the Libyan border and in the deep south. Additionally, avoid areas near the eastern, southern borders as well as the Sahara Desert due to terrorism and kidnapping. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Algeria. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and have recently targeted the Algerian security forces. Most attacks take place in rural areas, but attacks are possible in urban areas despite a heavy and active police presence. Attacks against police and security forces occur periodically in these areas. The hostage crisis in In Amenas in January 2013 illustrates the heightened risk in the southern region. Protests over the cost of living, housing and unemployment are common, but tend to be heavily policed and restricted by authorities. However, protests due to political leadership are on the rise since February 2019. Other issues such as crime, infrastructure safety, natural disasters and health concerns are less immediate, but should also be factored into travel risk mitigation.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Algeria. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza. Travellers might also consider the vaccinations for Hepatitis B and rabies, according to the specifics of their travel.

Cholera occurs in Algeria. The most recent cases reported from Ain Delfia, Algiers, Blida, Bouira, Médéa and Tipaza.

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is only required from travellers coming from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

Typhoid Fever vaccination is recommended when going outside the areas usually visited by tourists such as travelling extensively in the interior of the country, for persons on working assignments in remote areas, or travellers for extended period of time.

In addition to these health risks, travellers diarrhoea is the most common travel-related medical problem affecting travellers to Algeria. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration. Travellers must take all necessary precautions when drinking water or eating food within the country and only drink water from sealed bottles obtained from a reputable source or water that has been boiled.

Tuberculosis is endemic in Algeria.

In the major Algerian cities such as Algiers, Oran and Constantine, medical care is improving, but remains below European or Western standards. In rural areas, and in particular in the southern Sahara region, medical care is less widely available and of varying standards.

Hospitals and doctors will normally expect an immediate and upfront cash payment for any medical services rendered. Most practitioners speak French and English may not be widely used, depending of the location, especially outside of the capital.

Pass

Visitors to Algeria must be travelling on a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country.

Visum

Visa requirements for visits to Algeria are dependent on nationality and in most visitors require a visa. It is advised to contact Algerian embassy or consulate to enquire about their individual travel document necessities. The cost of a visa also varies according to nationality.

Travellers should apply to their Algerian Embassy or Consulate and applications must be typed and not handwritten. 

Business visas must be supported by a letter from a sponsor and proof of departure in the form of official flight itineraries.

Nationals of Libya, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Seychelles and Tunisia do not require a visa to enter Algeria for up to 30 days.