Moving to and living in Algeria (2024)

Expats moving to Algeria can look forward to living in a fascinating and untouched North African gem. This large country is populated by gorgeous Mediterranean coasts to the northand dry deserts to the south. Due to the Sahara covering most of the country, the population generally sticks to the coastal region, where the weather is more forgiving and land plentiful.

Living in Algeria as an expat

Although Algeria is an African and Arabic country, there is also a distinct French influence, thanksto its colonial past. This is especially noticeablein the language and architecture. But while major cities such asAlgiers and Oran are quite liberal on the surface, social and religious conservatism are deeply entrenchedand expats shouldalways show respect for the local customs and traditions.

While not a high-profile expat destination, it does attract those with experience in the oil and gas sectors. Others are drawn to job opportunities in the finance, education and foreign aid sectors.

Security is a significant issue in some parts of Algeria, mostly in the oil-producing regions and the southern Saharan areas. Certain parts of the country are not considered safe to visit, notablythe border areas in the south and with Tunisia. Numerous governments advise their nationals against travel to these areas.

Cost of living in Algeria

Being one of the cheapest countries in the world, expats can look forward to a low cost of living in Algeria. While housing will be the biggest expense, expats who shop locally should find their everyday expenses to be rather cheap. International school fees are high, but expats may be able to workeducation costs into their benefits. All in all, salaries are generally more than enough for expats to livecomfortably in Algeria.

Expat families and children

Expats will have access to public healthcarein Algeria, but the public system is largely underfunded. It's essential that theyhave comprehensive private health insurance to cover the costs of private medical care,including cover for evacuation to a nearby country with better health provision.

With an education system based on the French system and classes taught in Arabic and French, expats mostlysend their children to international schools, of which there are a handfulto choose from in Algiers and Oran.

Climate in Algeria

As Algeria is so large, the country's climate differs from region to region. While the northern coastal areas have a warm Mediterranean climate, the central parts of the country are hotter and dryer, with colder winters. The weather in the Saharanpartof the country, however, containsextraordinarily high temperatures during the day in summerand freezingwinter nights.

With its rich, diverse culture and openness to the world, Algeria has plenty to offer for those thinking about making the move. Its position in Africa and proximity to Europe make it the perfect place for anyone wanting a to settle into a simple life in an area from which they are easily able to explore.

Fast facts

Population: Over 43miillion

Capital: Algiers (also largest city)

Neighbouring countries: Algeria is bordered by Tunisia to the northeast, Libya to the east, Morocco to the west, the Western Sahara, Mauritania and Mali to the southwest, and Niger to the southeast. The north of Algeria is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea.

Geography: Algeria is the largest country in Africa by land mass and is covered mostly by the Sahara Desert. The Atlas Mountains sit to the north, with the highest point being Mount Tahat. The country enjoys a vast coastline along the Mediterranean Sea.

Political system: Unitary semi-presidential republic

Major languages: Arabic and Berber arethe official languages. French is also widely spoken.

Major religion: Sunni Islam

Money: The Dinar (DZD) is the official currency.

Time zone: GMT+1

Electricity: 230v 50hz. Algeria uses the European plug, type C.

International dialing code: +213

Internet domain: .dz

Emergency numbers:213 for ambulance, 14 for fire, 17 for police.

Transport and driving: Cars in Algeria drive on the right. Taxis are plentiful in main cities, but expats will likely need their own vehicle for getting around, especially if travelling to more remote areas.