Holidays, visiting family, work … There are many reasons to go to Algeria this summer. However, Algiers like Paris keeps restrictive measures that make travel between the two countries rather complicated, despite the important demands of the diaspora.
WHAT ENTRY CONDITIONS?
At the moment, a trip to Algeria remains very complicated. The borders were partially reopened on June 1, but only for Air Algeria flights. The latter had confirmed that it would provide six flights per week from France, Spain, Tunisia, and Turkey. Sea links also remain closed.
But for those who do get theft, the situation remains complicated. A 5-day lockdown in a hotel is mandatory and at the expense of the traveler (except students and low-income seniors). The total cost is around 250 euros, while Algerians benefit from a 20% price reduction. Despite this, the announcement angered members of the diaspora. In addition, persons over 12 years old must provide a negative PCR test of less than 36 hours to present at check-in.
WHAT RESTRICTIONS ON-SITE?
In Algeria, many restrictions are still in place in the name of the fight against the health crisis. Drinking establishments are thus closed, as are party rooms to avoid friends or family gatherings. The mask must be worn in public places or spaces that welcome the public. In addition, a curfew is established in 19 of the 58 wilayas (prefectures) of the country between midnight and 4 a.m. The beaches are however open.
WHERE IS THE EPIDEMIC SITUATION?
Compared with Tunisian and Moroccan neighbors, Algeria seems to have been relatively spared from the epidemic. As of June 6, the country has 3,510 deaths for 130,681 cases since the start of the coronavirus pandemic according to Johns Hopkins University.
On the vaccination side, the country seems to be in difficulty obtaining its doses. According to Jeune Afrique, the Minister of Health Abderrahmane Benbouzid assured that Pfizer imposed conditions for delivering vaccines that will not be accepted by the government. It remains to be seen if a solution will be found in the future.
WHAT OBLIGATIONS BEFORE RETURNING TO FRANCE?
For the return, the same rule applies to all travelers from abroad, including the French. All must have a negative PCR test within 72 hours, even with a vaccine. As Algeria is not one of the countries classified as “green”, people will only be able to enter with proof of a compelling reason.
