France Cuts Visas for Algerians by 28% Amid Diplomatic Tension

France has significantly cut the number of Schengen visas for nationals of Algeria amid the ongoing diplomatic tension between the two countries.

Data show that the number of visas granted by France to Algerian nationals in January 2025 dropped by 28 per cent compared to the same period last year, Schengen.News reports. 

As for February, no available data has been shared yet. However, it is believed that a lower number of visas was granted to Algerian passport holders during the previous month, too. 

Local French media have linked the drop in French visas for Algerians with the tension between the two countries, which has no signs of easing. 

The diplomatic tension has worsened lately following multiple refusals from the Algerian side to take back its expelled nationals who have received an obligation to leave the French territory. 

Last week alone, three Algerian nationals who were expelled from France were sent back again by Algerian authorities on the same day, Le Journal du Dimanche explains. 

The same notes that since the beginning of this year, a total of 17 such cases have occurred, raising concerns and frustration among the French authorities. 

France Has Restricted Access & Movement of Algerian Officials 
Amid the worsening of the diplomatic tension, France has imposed access and movement restrictions on Algerian officials. 

Announcing the measure, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of France, Jean-Noël Barrot, said at the end of February that the measure is not permanent. 

As he explained, the entry and movement restrictions for Algerian officials will be dropped once the Algerian authorities agree to work together with the French authorities in the readmission of their nationals who have received an order to leave the territory of France.

At the same time, Minister Barrot said that the main aim of this measure targeting Algerian officials is to ensure public safety and protect France’s national interests. 

In addition to imposing restrictions on Algerian officials, Minister Barrot said that he also wants to propose visa restrictions at the EU level for nationals of countries refusing to take back their expelled nationals, referring to Algerians. 

A CSA poll has found that 84 per cent of French people support the total visa suspension for Algerians. According to those who took part in the survey, a complete visa suspension is needed in order to pressure Algeria into readmitting its expelled nationals.

Source: https://schengen.news/france-cuts-visas-for-algerians-by-28-amid-diplomatic-tension/