Algeria's 2026 Finance Law Cracks Down on Foreign Currency
The 2026 Finance Law in Algeria marks a significant shift in the management of foreign currencies, introducing stricter regulations for non-resident travelers. Until now, these individuals could enter the country with declared foreign currencies and leave with equivalent amounts without systematically having to justify their origin or exchange method. This relatively lenient approach, often criticized, comes to an end with the implementation of new provisions, particularly outlined in Article 129 of the law.
Key Changes for Travelers
- Any amount exceeding 1,000 euros or its equivalent must be declared upon entry.
- Upon exit, travelers must provide an official document justifying the exchange was made through banking channels or authorized offices.
Objectives of the Reform
The stated goal is to:
- Enhance the traceability of financial flows
- Limit informal foreign currency outflows
- Reduce the influence of the parallel market
Implications for Travelers
In reality, for travelers, including tourists and members of the diaspora, this reform means one simple thing: traveling to Algeria with foreign currencies will now require as much attention to documentation as to the contents of their luggage.
