Due to the ongoing diplomatic tension between France and Algeria, France has sharply reduced the number of Schengen visas for Algerian nationals. Data from Le Monde shows that in January 2025, the number of visas France gave to Algerian nationals dropped by 28% compared to the same time last year, as reported by Schengen News.
There’s no data yet for February. But it’s thought that fewer visas were given to Algerian passport holders in that month as well.
Local French media have connected this drop in French visas for Algerians to the tense relationship between the two countries, which shows no signs of getting better.
The diplomatic tension has gotten worse recently. This is because the Algerian side has repeatedly refused to take back its expelled citizens who have been ordered to leave French territory. Le Journal du Dimanche reported that just last week, three Algerian nationals expelled from France were sent back by Algerian authorities on the same day. It also noted that since the start of this year, there have been 17 such cases in total, which has worried and frustrated the French authorities.
France Restricts Algerian Officials’ Access and Movement
Amid the worsening diplomatic situation, France has placed restrictions on the access and movement of Algerian officials. French Foreign Minister Jean – Noël Barrot announced this measure at the end of February and said it’s not permanent. He explained that these restrictions on Algerian officials’ entry and movement will be lifted once Algerian authorities cooperate with the French in readmitting their nationals who have been ordered to leave French territory.
Minister Barrot also said that the main purpose of this measure is to ensure public safety and protect France’s national interests.
Besides restricting Algerian officials, Minister Barrot said he wants to suggest visa restrictions at the EU level for nationals of countries that refuse to take back their expelled citizens, specifically referring to Algerians.
A CSA poll found that 84% of French people support a total visa suspension for Algerians. Those surveyed believe a complete visa suspension is needed to pressure Algeria into readmitting its expelled nationals.
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