Algiers, December 15, 2025 – A new directive concerning the disbursement of travel allowances has been issued by the Bank of Algeria, effective immediately. The core change involves the elimination of cash payments for the allowance.
According to the directive, which DZWatch has reviewed, the DZD equivalent of the foreign currency allowance must be settled exclusively through bank-issued payment methods. These include interbank payment cards (CIB), bank checks, or any other officially authorized written instrument. This measure is outlined in memorandum number 01/DGIG/2025, dated December 15, 2025, and serves to clarify the implementation of regulations concerning the right to foreign exchange for travel abroad, as stipulated in instruction number 05-2025 of July 17, 2025.
Banks are reminded to strictly adhere to the provisions of instruction 05-2025, particularly Article 10. They must also systematically apply all relevant legislation and regulations. This is to ensure that the beneficiary’s financial capacity allows them to cover the transaction amount, either for their own account or for related individuals, as defined in instruction 05-2025.
Furthermore, access to the travel allowance is now contingent upon the applicant holding a bank account with the bank handling the transaction. Banks are obligated to implement all due diligence measures outlined in existing regulations, including Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, identity verification, and assessment of the consistency between transactions and the account holder’s financial situation.
Crucially, beneficiaries whose actual stay abroad is less than seven (7) days will be required to return the full amount of the travel allowance received. Failure to comply will result in the loss of eligibility for the allowance for a period of five (5) years, in addition to potential legal action.
These measures aim to safeguard the conditions under which the travel allowance is granted and ensure its proper use by eligible individuals.
