Travel Report for Algeria

Country Profile for
Algeria

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: October 17, 2006 11:27 EDT
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 21:50 EST

Algeria

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed. Section 10 has been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)

You are advised against all travel in the remote desert areas in the wilayas (districts) of Illizi, Tamanrasset and Adrar.

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW9)

You are advised against non-essential travel outside major centres while in Algeria. Since 2005, the city of Algiers and its immediate suburbs have recorded a drop in the number of terrorist-associated incidents. However, there are continued security concerns. Random terrorist attacks still occur in rural and remote areas, on public transportation outside the major cities and in some parts of the country at night.

Canadians travelling on business should evaluate carefully the implications for their security and safety before deciding to travel to Algeria, due to threats of violence in some parts of the country. You may seek additional security advice from the Embassy of Canada in Algiers (see Section 7 below). Internal travel should be done by air. If road travel outside of Algiers is necessary, it should be done during daylight hours.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to the region(s) specified despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting other areas of the country for three months or more should also register. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Security conditions in most of the country continue to improve. Since 2002, government policies and security force successes have reduced, but not eliminated, terrorist violence. The security situation continues to be unstable and there is a risk for both Canadian residents and Canadian visitors of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Therefore, travelers should exercise caution at all times. Urban centres are much more secure than heavily wooded and mountainous rural areas.

Political demonstrations and strike activity can occur and may turn violent. Canadians should avoid large gatherings and political demonstrations.

Security forces are present throughout the country, on roads, at the airport and in front of government buildings. Security personnel will expect your full and prompt cooperation at all times.

The following hotels in Algiers operate under stringent security measures: Sheraton Club des Pins, the Sofitel, El Djazair (formerly St. Georges), the Hilton, the Mercure, and El Aurassi. On arrival, you should be briefed on hotel security measures. You should retain your hotel key at all times. Avoid walking in the Casbah region.

You should avoid unknown areas of cities and towns, maintain a high level of personal security awareness in all areas, as robbery and/or physical attacks can also be a threat. You should keep all electronic devices in a nondescript bag slung across your chest, and avoid showing signs of affluence. It is advisable to carry minimal amounts of money and to leave the rest locked in the hotel safe.

Outside Algiers, the situation in the non-urban mountainous region east of Algiers (Kabylia) and in coastal mountains running from Blida to Ain Defla is still dangerous. Bandits and terrorist groups operate in these areas. Terrorist and bandit activity has taken place primarily in the mountain chains running between the capital of Algiers and the main port of Oran to the west, and also in the region immediately to the east of Algiers between Boumerdès and the wilaya (district) of Tizi Ouzou.

In the Sahara, the extreme climate, lack of water and infrastructure, and visibility of Algeria's petroleum and gas industry, which is well guarded by both the Algerian military and private security services, create a different security environment. Travel in this region, by its very nature, must be well thought out and undertaken as part of organized tours by reputable tour operators only. Overland travel in remote areas is discouraged.

The crime rate in Algeria is moderate. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, is on the increase. Theft from hotel rooms, from automobiles and on public transportation is also common. Tourists travelling in the south, in the region near the border with Niger, have also been attacked.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Of the European airlines, Alitalia, Air France and Air Azur (French) and British Airways now maintain scheduled flights to Algiers. Several African and Middle East carriers fly into Algiers. You should avoid travel between the airport and the city centre in any form of public transportation, including taxis, especially after dark. Arrange in advance to be picked up and dropped off at the airport by your hosts or by hotel shuttles. There are checkpoints on the main roads heading into and out of Algiers.

Road conditions can be poor outside of Algiers and signposts are rare. You should rent a car with a driver rather than drive yourself.

It is advisable, when travelling by car, to lock all belongings in the trunk and to keep your doors locked at all times. It is highly recommended that you park your car in a guarded parking lot. Buses and trains should be avoided completely as driving is generally hazardous and both have been targeted by terrorists and bandits. Taxis are not recommended as they generally service only the city centre and are not always available, especially late at night or at peak hours. Also, they are not dispatched to pick up single clients, but, rather, follow a standard route and pick up many clients going in the same direction.

Random terrorist or bandit roadblocks mean that all travellers, including foreigners, in rural Algeria are at risk of injury, robbery, kidnapping, or murder.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Algeria is located in an active seismic zone. You should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Algiers (see Section 7 below) in the event of an emergency.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

Algeria does not recognize dual nationality. The Canadian Embassy's ability to assist dual nationals is very limited. Children of Algerian fathers automatically acquire Algerian citizenship at birth, regardless of where they were born. Even if the child is listed on the mother's foreign passport, Algerian authorities may consider the child an Algerian national if the father is Algerian. The father's permission is required for any child under 20 years of age to travel, whether the child is travelling on a foreign or an Algerian passport.

The Department publishes a booklet, Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at dual citizens.

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in the country’s customs, laws, and regulations. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Visitors should dress conservatively (e.g., women should wear a headscarf and also cover their arms and legs). Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. The use of drugs and alcohol is prohibited. Transgressions could be punished by detention or other penalties.

The Algerian work week is Saturday through Wednesday.

During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), visitors should use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on or about September 24, 2006.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Algeria - ALGIERS, Embassy of Canada
Address: 18, rue Mustapha Khalef, Ben Aknoun, Alger, Algeria
Postal Address: P.O. Box 48, Alger-Gare, 16000, Algeria
Tel.: 213 (0) 21-91-49-51 or 21-91-49-60
Fax: 213 (0) 21-91-49-73
E-mail: alger@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.algeria.gc.ca

The Embassy of Canada is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday through Wednesday.

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Algiers and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with Algerian authorities and was valid on April 4, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria and its consulate, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Algeria. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to Canada. Canadians must also be in possession of a visa.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Students are issued a tourist visa.

Upon arrival, you are required to declare all foreign currency. A currency declaration form will be issued, and all transactions made during your stay must be recorded. This form must be presented upon departure. Foreign exchange transactions should be made through official channels. Contact the Embassy of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria in Ottawa for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Algerian law requires a period of compulsory military service for all men under the age of 35. There have been cases of Canadian citizens who may also have Algerian citizenship being refused permission to leave the country because they did not possess a card exempting them from military service, a deferment card, or evidence that they have completed their military service. While the Embassy of Canada will attempt to help individuals in this situation, they are considered by Algerian authorities to be Algerian citizens.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Foreign officials and transportation companies are vigilant concerning documentation for children crossing international borders. Make sure you carry the proper identification for yourself and any children travelling with you, including any documents that might be required by foreign and/or local authorities.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the Algerian dinar (DZD). Traveller's cheques and credit cards are not accepted outside major hotels. The Algerian dinar is a non-convertible currency.

Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria (capital: Algiers) is located on the northern coast of Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania and Morocco. The official language is Arabic, but French is widely used in business and government.

There are three distinct regions: a) the four main cities: Algiers, Oran, Constantine, and Annaba in the Mediterranean coastal area; b) the sparsely populated, heavily wooded mountainous region and high plains between the coast and the desert; and c) the Sahara desert, the location of major petroleum and gas sites as well as a few tourist sites.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Outside of major centres, medical facilities are poor to non-existent. Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment for their services.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

SECURITY SITUATION IN ALGERIA - AN ASSESSMENT FOR CANADIAN BUSINESS VISITORS

There are dozens of Canadian companies already doing business in Algeria, and the country is our most important market in the Africa and Middle East regions. There has been a return of many foreign businesses, suggesting a greater level of confidence overall. Canadians are generally well received by the Algerian people, partners, and co-workers. The hydrocarbons industry and its support industries have long been the mainstay of the Algerian economy, and the sector offers opportunities for Canadian trade, investment, joint ventures, and technology transfer. Other fields where there are great opportunities include agriculture, agro-food, high technology, and the service industries.

The security problems in Algeria present risks for both Algerian and foreign residents, and careful and effective security measures are warranted for Canadians establishing a residence or business in Algeria. While the overall situation remains unpredictable, the major cities and the oil patch have been relatively calm for the last three years.

Canadian and other foreign companies present in Algeria generally seek advice both from their embassies and from other long-established companies and organizations as to the current security climate and its implications for living and working in the country. Many foreign business visitors live in hotels, even for long-term stays, as suitable, moderately priced housing is difficult to find. Housing in the cities is normally in large villas surrounded by high concrete walls with armed security guards. Sometimes housing compounds are shared among a small number of expatriates. Public transportation is poor. For daily travel, most resident and visiting business people use the services of a driver. Road conditions in the cities are not good, parking is difficult, and in Algiers at least, road patterns are complicated. Telephone coverage is improving with the recent introduction of cellular service. Canadian cellular phones will not work in Algeria unless they can operate under the "GSM" standard. Most foreigners and Algerian business persons carry cellular phones. The use of global satellite sets should be considered, particularly when travelling outside of the major cities. Almost every foreign company and embassy has its own two-way radio network for staff, permitting emergency communications.

Several local and foreign security agencies offer a range of advisory and protection services as well as hardware options that are being used successfully by both Algerian and foreign companies to protect both personnel and company assets. The Algerian military also provides security for many of the petroleum sites in the Sahara as well as strategically important public works projects.

Companies considering establishing an ongoing or permanent presence in Algeria should consult with the Embassy of Canada, which can also provide contacts with Canadian firms that have offices and staff in Algeria.

The security threat to personnel and physical assets in Algeria comes from two directions. The first is the general criminal element. There is a gradually rising level of urban crime, including pickpocketing, theft in homes and on the streets, car theft, assault, and robbery. The second threat is from residual terrorist activity and bandits, who may finance their activities through racketeering and some extortion.

Algeria is a country of commercial opportunity that is emerging from the violence of the past decade and rebuilding its society. The challenge for foreigners visiting, living, or working in Algeria is to balance the commercial opportunities with a common-sense approach to personal security.

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18. ANNEX

N/A

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