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Algeria ends diplomatic visa exemption for French officials in reciprocal measure
Algiers, August 7, 2025 – Algeria announced on Thursday the end of visa exemptions for French diplomatic and service passport holders, responding to France’s stricter stance on bilateral relations.
The Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Chargé d’Affaires of the French Embassy in Algiers to deliver a formal note terminating the 2013 bilateral agreement that allowed diplomats from both countries to travel without visas. The measure follows France’s recent imposition of visa requirements on Algerian diplomats, reflecting President Emmanuel Macron’s call for a “firmer approach” toward Algiers.
From now on, French officials must obtain a visa to enter Algeria. The government stated that the same conditions imposed on Algerian citizens in France will now apply to French diplomats.
In addition, Algeria ended the provision of free state-owned property to the French Embassy in Algiers and announced a review of advantageous leases held by the French diplomatic mission. The Ministry emphasized that its own representation in France enjoys no such benefits.
Relations between Paris and Algiers have been at a low since summer 2024, marked by diplomatic expulsions and a freeze on official cooperation. French officials cite security concerns and the detention of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal and journalist Christophe Gleizes as contributing factors. Despite tensions, French authorities stress their desire to eventually restore balanced and constructive relations with Algeria.
