France Announces Extended Schengen Visa Processing Time for Algerian Applicants
Key Points
1. Schengen visa processing for Algerian applicants has been extended to four weeks.
2. This delay is due to high demand.
3. Applicants from 14 provinces in Algeria are advised to submit their applications at the Annaba consulate.
The French consulate in Algeria has announced that Schengen visa processing times have been extended to four weeks. According to a statement, the increase in demand is the primary reason for the longer processing period.
Higher Schengen Visa Fees Affecting Algerian Applicants
In June, the European Commission raised visa application fees by 12.5%, increasing the cost from €80 to €90.
This adjustment does not apply to countries with visa facilitation agreements unless those agreements specifically reference the fees outlined in the Visa Code.
— European Commission
This fee increase has significantly impacted Algerian citizens, who are among the highest applicants for Schengen visas. With an average of 410,000 applications annually, Algerians will now pay a total of €36.8 million in visa fees.
In 2023 alone, Algerians submitted 392,053 applications, amounting to €31.3 million in costs. France remains the most popular destination for Algerians, who frequently apply for Schengen visas, residence permits, and citizenship. Alongside Tunisians and Moroccans, they are among the top visa applicants to France.