Following a series of diplomatic tensions, French President Emmanuel Macron ordered the suspension of a 2013 visa-exemption agreement for Algerian diplomats. On August 7, 2025, Travel and Tour World reported that Macron instructed his foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot to notify Algeria of new visa restrictions and asked Schengen-zone partners to consult France before issuing short-stay visas to Algerian officials. The article notes that France attributes the decision to Algeria’s refusal to accept deported nationals and to broader disagreements over the Western Sahara, migration, and security issues.
From Algeria’s perspective, the move risks exacerbating historical tensions without addressing the underlying issues. Algeria has consistently advocated for a mutually respectful partnership and has defended its right to support the Sahrawi people’s self-determination in Western Sahara. The visa-exemption agreement was originally designed to foster goodwill and cooperation, and its suspension could hinder diplomatic dialogue and people-to-people exchanges. Algerian commentators argue that addressing migration challenges requires joint solutions, including investment in job creation and tackling root causes of irregular migration, rather than punitive measures. Algeria has also emphasized that it respects international law and will engage with France on repatriation cases through diplomatic channels. Ultimately, a cooperative, balanced approach is essential for preserving long-standing ties between the two nations.
