2026 Finance Bill: Major Reform for Travelers
The 2026 Finance Bill (PLF), recently adopted by the Council of Ministers under the presidency of Abdelmadjid Tebboune, introduces a major reform for travelers. One of its key measures is the revision of the rules governing the declaration of foreign currencies upon entry and exit from the national territory. The objective is to establish a single threshold of 1,000 euros, applicable to all, whether residents or non-residents.
Previous Regulations
Until now, the regulations distinguished between incoming and outgoing flows. Upon entry into Algeria, any amount equal to or exceeding 1,000 euros had to be declared. In contrast, upon exit, resident travelers could carry up to 7,500 euros per year, provided the funds came from a foreign currency account domiciled in Algeria. Non-residents, on the other hand, could only re-export the amounts initially declared upon their arrival.
New Regulations
The 2026 PLF puts an end to this duality. From now on, any amount exceeding 1,000 euros, or its equivalent in another currency, must be declared to the customs services, both upon entry and exit from the country. This uniformization aims to simplify procedures, strengthen financial transparency, and prevent illicit capital transfers. The text is part of the continuity of Regulation 24-05 of October 13, 2024, which had already expanded the declaration obligations to other means of payment, such as traveler's checks, precious metals, and bearer securities.
A Reform for More Clarity and Traceability
The financial authorities claim that this measure does not aim to restrict freedom of movement, but to modernize the customs and monetary framework. By harmonizing the thresholds, Algeria is aligning itself with international standards for combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The Bank of Algeria and the General Directorate of Customs hope to strengthen the traceability of cross-border monetary flows and establish better financial discipline.
Implications for Travelers
For travelers, this new regulation implies systematic declaration as soon as the transported amount exceeds 1,000 euros. The procedure must be carried out at entry and exit points - airports, ports, or border posts. Undeclared amounts may be confiscated, and offenders may be administratively or judicially sanctioned.
Potential Impact
This measure could impact regular travelers, particularly those who frequently travel between Algeria and Europe, who are accustomed to carrying several thousand euros for personal or family expenses. However, the Ministry of Finance insists that it is not a matter of limiting travel, but of better framing financial flows.
Government Objectives
The government intends, through this reform, to simplify and secure foreign currency transactions, while encouraging the use of international bank cards and electronic payment methods. By reducing the gaps between residents and non-residents, it hopes to restore confidence in the official banking system and discourage recourse to the informal market.
Ongoing Debate
While awaiting its final adoption by Parliament, the measure continues to spark debate. Between the imperative of control and the freedom of travelers, the uniformization of the declaration threshold marks a key step towards a more rigorous and transparent customs policy.
