By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L.H.D (Hon.)

Algiers, Algeria – As preparations intensify for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025, the Algerian government has released detailed visa application procedures for all international participants planning to attend the continental event.

In a directive issued to all Algerian embassies and consulates worldwide, participants whose names appear on officially submitted lists can now begin submitting visa applications. This initiative is being coordinated in partnership with AFREXIMBANK, which is overseeing local application points in various countries.

Participants may apply individually or collectively, and only those pre-registered on the IATF 2025 platform will be eligible to initiate the visa process.

Streamlined Consular Visa Process

Applicants are required to present the following documents:

• A fully completed visa application form;
• A valid passport with at least six months before expiry;
• A photocopy of passport pages showing personal data;
• Proof of registration on the IATF 2025 platform;
• Two recent passport-sized photos;
• Visa fee payment receipt;
• Hotel reservation and round-trip flight booking (may be submitted upon visa collection if not available at application time).

The visa processing time will not exceed one week.

Different visa categories will be issued based on the nature of participation:

• Tourist visas (one-month, single entry) for general participants valid between August 15 and September 15;
• Business visas (three months with multiple entries) for exhibitors;
• Six-month business visas for employees of bank delegations traveling for multiple meetings.

Special Provision: Visa on Arrival

For participants from countries without an Algerian diplomatic or consular mission, visa on arrival will be allowed in exceptional and justified cases. The issuance will be coordinated by the Ministry of Interior, Local Government, and Regional Planning (MICLAT).

In emergencies, Algeria’s Border Police may issue regularization visas at the point of entry to foreigners lacking a visa due to the absence of diplomatic representation in their home countries.

To qualify for a visa on arrival, travelers must present:

1. A completed visa application form;
2. A passport valid for more than six months;
3. Passport copy with personal details;
4. Proof of IATF 2025 registration;
5. Proof of visa fee payment as per the 2025 Finance Law;
6. Confirmed hotel reservation;
7. Return flight ticket.

Additionally, travelers applying for a visa on arrival must possess a boarding certificate issued by the relevant Ministerial Department before departing for Algeria.

As the continent gears up for one of the largest trade gatherings under the AfCFTA framework, these streamlined visa procedures are expected to facilitate smooth participation and enhance regional integration.

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