Visa on Arrival - Southern Algeria

The Visa on Arrival for Southern Algeria is a targeted initiative introduced by the Algerian government to promote tourism in the country's vast and culturally rich southern regions. This visa option is specifically available to tourists who are visiting designated southern provinces, such as Tamanrasset, Djanet, and various oasis towns, provided they are traveling through an approved, licensed travel agency. By simplifying the entry process for these specific areas, Algeria aims to make its Sahara desert landscapes and unique cultural heritage more accessible to international travelers who might otherwise be deterred by the complexity of traditional consular visa applications.

To be eligible for this visa, travelers must typically provide an official invitation or embarkation authorization issued by their tour operator, which must be prepared well in advance of their arrival. Upon landing at eligible airports in the south, travelers present their documentation and pay a fee, which is currently approximately EUR 50, though this can vary based on specific circumstances and duration. It is important to note that this visa is strictly intended for tourism in the specified southern zones; travelers planning to visit northern cities like Algiers or Oran may still be required to obtain a standard visa through an Algerian embassy or consulate prior to their departure.