Algeria Basics |
The Basics
Time: GMT +1
Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. European 2-pin and “Schuko” plugs are standard.
Money: The unit of currency is the Algeria Dinar (DZD), which is
divided into 100 centimes.
Currency Exchange Rates |
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| DZD1.00 = | US$ 0.01 | £ 0.01 | C$ 0.01 | A$ 0.01 | R 0.11 | € 0.01 | NZ$ 0.02 |
Language: Arabic and Berber are the official languages. English and French are used in some government departments and media.
Entry requirements for Americans: US nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required except when in transit and remaining in the airport for under 24 hours.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: UK nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required except when in transit and remaining in the airport for under 24 hours.
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required except when in transit and remaining in the airport for under 24 hours
Entry requirements for Australians: Australian nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required except when in transit and remaining in the airport for under 24 hours.
Entry requirements for South Africans: South African nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required except when in transit and remaining in the airport for under 24 hours.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required except when in transit and remaining in the airport for under 24 hours.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required except when in transit and remaining in the airport for under 24 hours.
Passport/Visa Note: Passport must be valid for at least six months after intended stay. Visas are required for all visitors except when in transit and spending less than 24 hours without leaving the airport. A transit visa for up to 48 hours can be obtained from airport authorities. Visitors may be required to produce return/onward tickets, other documents for next destination and proof of sufficient funds.
Travel Health: An outbreak of Typhoid fever has been confirmed in the Djelfa region as of august 2008. HIV/AIDS is also prevalent throughout the country.
Tipping: A 10% tip is expected but may be factored into the price at more upmarket venues.
Safety Information: Terrorism is a big problem in Algeria, taking the form of kidnappings, bombings and cross-country ambushes. Long trips should be avoided as well as crowds and protests.
Local Customs: Being a predominantly Islamic state, visitors would do well to familiarise themselves with the religion before going to Algeria. Holy months and days mean businesses are often closed for lengthy periods. It is advisable not to travel there during the holy month of Ramadan. Homosexual activity is illegal and punishable by imprisonment. Women are expected to dress conservatively and no smoking is allowed in public. Drinking of alcohol is also frowned upon though some locals might partake. Photographing of police or military personnel or establishments is strictly prohibited.
Business: Pleasantries are considered essential to business dealings. Ask after one another's health and demeanour. Do not back out of a handshake too hastily. Closeness is an expression of warmth and familiarity to Algerians. Business cards are used, if possible though, have them translated to Arabic and/or French.
Communications: The international access code for Algeria is +213. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the code.
Duty Free: Travellers are allowed to import 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, half a litre of Eau de Cologne and 0.15 litres of perfume in opened bottles and 1 litre of alcoholic beverages per person. Travellers may export an unlimited amount of tobacco products. Narcotics, firearms and gold are strictly prohibited.