Algeria Imposes New Visa Requirements on Moroccan Citizens amid Espionage Accusations

ALGIERS, Sept 26, 2024 — In a decisive move, Algeria has announced the imposition of visa requirements on Moroccan citizens, citing concerns over espionage and criminal activities orchestrated by its North African neighbor. The official APS news agency reported that Morocco has been accused of deploying espionage agents with Moroccan passports as well as engaging in drug and human trafficking operations within Algerian territory.
Algeria has enforced new visa requirements, obligating Moroccan nationals to obtain visas prior to entry. According to the government statement, this step aims to curb the alleged “Zionist espionage” activities linked to Morocco. This measure follows the capture of seven individuals in Tlemcen, including four Moroccans, accused of being part of a spy ring.
In addition to espionage accusations, Algeria has condemned Morocco for its involvement in organized crime, notably drug and human trafficking. Algerian authorities believe these actions pose significant threats to national security and stability.
The diplomatic relationship between Algeria and Morocco has been fraught with tension. Algeria severed diplomatic ties with Morocco in August 2021, following what it described as “hostile acts” by Morocco shortly after Rabat’s normalization of relations with Israel. The two countries have closed their borders since 1994, further straining their relationship.
Despite these hostilities, Algeria’s statement emphasized its commitment to maintaining a “brotherly” relationship with the Moroccan people. The blame for the current tensions was placed firmly on the Moroccan regime.
Algeria’s new visa regulations are expected to impact travel and tourism between the two countries significantly. While the overall visa policy of Algeria now includes a visa-on-arrival option for tourists booking through Algerian tour operators, Moroccans will need to adhere strictly to the new prerequisites.