Algeria ends visa deal with France, deepening diplomatic rift

Friday 08 August 2025 - 10:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Algeria ends visa deal with France, deepening diplomatic rift

Algeria retaliates against France’s suspension of visa exemption

Algeria announced on Thursday the termination of a bilateral agreement on visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic and service passports, escalating tensions with France. The decision follows France’s move to suspend the same agreement, which had facilitated high-level mobility between the two countries.

In its statement, Algeria’s foreign ministry criticized Paris, accusing it of distorting facts and shifting blame for the worsening bilateral ties. Algerian officials emphasized that it was France that initially requested the visa exemption deal, framing its suspension as an opportunity for Algeria to terminate the agreement entirely.

Macron’s letter fuels tensions

The diplomatic fallout intensified after an official letter from French President Emmanuel Macron urged his government to adopt stricter measures against Algeria. Addressed to Prime Minister François Bayrou, Macron’s letter called for “greater firmness and determination” in addressing ongoing disputes with Algiers.

The letter coincided with France’s demands for Algeria to repatriate its citizens facing deportation and its refusal to release French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who received a five-year prison sentence after expressing support for Morocco’s territorial integrity.

Algeria took particular offense at Macron’s portrayal of the country as solely responsible for the breakdown in relations.

Deteriorating ties

Relations between Paris and Algiers have been strained since France’s recognition in July 2024 of Morocco’s sovereignty over Sahara. The situation has worsened with Algeria imposing restrictions on French diplomats, including expulsions and travel limitations.

While Algeria adopted a confrontational stance, France maintained a more measured tone. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal remarked during a visit to Charente-Maritime that France’s actions were intended not to perpetuate hostility but to “rebuild a relationship that is fair and balanced.”

The 2013 visa exemption agreement, which had allowed Algerian officials and diplomatic passport holders to enter France without visas, is now officially void. The fallout reflects broader diplomatic challenges between the two nations, with no clear resolution in sight.