Grand South Visa-on-Arrival Policy Extended
Algeria has extended its specialized visa-on-arrival procedure for international tourists visiting its vast Grand South region, a strategic move designed to significantly enhance Saharan tourism. Initiated in 2023, this system allows foreign visitors to obtain a regularization visa directly upon their arrival, supporting the nation's efforts to diversify its economy through tourism development. The current arrangement, which requires tourists to book their travel through accredited Algerian agencies, is set to continue, having demonstrated its role in promoting the unique desert destinations.
The visa-on-arrival facility is specifically designed for organized tours, covering the duration of the circuit up to a maximum of 30 days. Travelers must engage with an Algerian travel agency approved by the Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts, and their itinerary must include at least one of the 24 eligible southern wilayas. Upon successful application through the agency and validation via a digital platform, tourists receive an embarkation authorization. This document, featuring a QR code, serves as a preliminary agreement for visa issuance and must be presented to airline personnel and then to border police upon landing, where the visa is finalized against payment of a stamp duty.
Since its inception in 2023, the visa-on-arrival system has attracted approximately 39,000 foreign tourists from 120 different nationalities, a figure reported by the Minister of Tourism on July 20, 2026. This success underscores the policy's effectiveness as a driver for the Sahara's appeal and the growth of local economies. Looking ahead, a proposed revision of visa tariffs for 2027 aims to further strengthen tourist appeal, particularly for extended stays, with a significant reduction in fees for trips lasting 16 to 30 days. Destinations such as Djanet and Tamanrasset, with their own airports and proximity to sites like Tassili n'Ajjer and Hoggar, continue to be popular entry points during the prime tourist season from autumn to spring.
