Capital
Algiers
Currency
Algerian dinar (DZD)
Languages
Arabic and Berber
Payroll Frequency
N/A
GDP per Capita
USD 144.29 billion (2020)
Employer Tax
N/A

-Employer of Record in Algeria

Algeria’s low overhead costs and affordable business climate make it a desirable location for expansion. Its position as one of the world’s leading producers of oil and natural gas makes it a valuable center for energy-related businesses. People in the nation are more interested in technology, and this creates a favorable environment for tech-related enterprises to prosper. Additionally, growing emerging markets like the one for medical equipment present new prospects for market entrance.

However, developing enterprises may encounter difficulties with Algeria’s labor rules due to their complexity. Marzuna makes compliance easier as an Employer of Record (EOR) service and Professional Employer Organization (PEO). Your ability to concentrate on your core company activities while adhering to local requirements is made possible by our integrated global Human Resource (HR) platform, which manages critical HR processes. Contact the knowledgeable team at Marzuna to confidently explore your expansion prospects in Algeria. We’re here to assist you in taking advantage of the market’s exciting potential.

Overview of Algeria

  • Estimated population: 44 million people (2020)
  • Current: Algerian dinar (DZD)
  • Capital: Algiers
  • Official languages: Arabic and Berber
  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP): USD 144.29 billion (2020)
  • Main industries: Oil and gas

Employment Landscape in Algeria

In 2020, the majority of Algeria’s labor force will be employed in the service industry, according to Statista. Around 60% of the workforce in the nation was working in the services sector in 2010, a rise of nearly 2% over the previous ten years. There isn’t a huge labor shortage in the oil and gas sector. Consequently, employment in the oil and gas business has increased recently even though this sector provides the most to the nation’s GDP.

The following list of essential rights is provided under Algerian employment law:

Benefits for employees’ health in Algeria

Algeria offers health insurance benefits due to its public healthcare system, which is financed by social security and state payments. Businesses could provide supplemental private health insurance.

Sick Leave

Employees have the right to sick time, which is often paid starting on the day of illness. Employees who take sick leave will get a percentage of their pay for the first 15 days of their absence. This rises if the employee is admitted to the hospital or after 16 sick days.

Public Holidays

There are nine public holidays in Algeria, as follows.

  • New Year’s Day (January 1)
  • Yennayer (January 12)
  • May Day (May 1)
  • Eid al-Fitr (May 12)
  • Independence Day (July 5)
  • Eid al-Adha (July 19)
  • Muharram (August 8-9)
  • Day of Ashura (August 18-19)
  • The Prophet’s Birthday (October 18-19)
  • Anniversary of the Revolution (November 1)

Paid or Vacation Leave

A maximum of 30 days of paid leave, accrued over 12 months on a two-and-a-half-day basis, may be taken annually by employees. Algeria does not tolerate refusing yearly leaves.

Employment Agreements

It is important to establish a solid, written contract that clearly outlines the conditions of the employee’s remuneration, perks, and termination criteria. Employment contracts in Algeria can be either oral or written. The pay and benefits should always be included in the job contract and offer letter. In some circumstances, such as when a worker has to be temporarily replaced, fixed-term contracts are acceptable.

Working Schedule

According to Algerian labor legislation, employees must get one full day of paid vacation each week in addition to the standard 40 hours of work each week. No worker may be required to put in more than eight hours per week of overtime.

Minimum Salary

The basic salary rate was raised by the government in May 2020 to DZD 18,000, or around $170. Employees must be granted a 30-day yearly leave that is entirely compensated for.

Leaves for maternity and paternity

Maternity and paternity leave are offered by businesses in Algeria. Female workers receive 100% of medical benefits and hospitalization charges for up to eight days, as well as 14 weeks of paid maternity leave to help with their health and rehabilitation. For the birth of a child, male employees are entitled to up to three days of paid emergency leave.

Over the years, various changes have been made to Algeria’s employment legislation. It is wise to work with an EOR firm to navigate these rules given their intricacy and the strictness with which they are enforced.

With regard to trying to grow your organization, Marzuna’s EOR service in Algeria offers the know-how to assist you. To find out more, get in contact with us.

Contractors vs. Full-time Employees

Misclassification of workers as independent contractors is a common issue in Algeria. This practice is primarily driven by cost-saving motives. Businesses often prefer portraying full-time employees as independent contractors to avoid expenses related to employee benefits, including employment taxes, social security, and pension contributions. Such financial considerations can inflate the cost of maintaining an official employee by as much as 40%.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that when an employee is disguised as a contractor, it can bring unwanted scrutiny to a company’s operations and potentially lead to legal repercussions. Violating labor laws can prompt regulatory investigations that may harm the company’s reputation and stability.

Consequently, opting for formal foreign employment, rather than utilizing independent contractors, carries the advantage of significantly mitigating legal, financial, and business risks, reducing them by up to 95%. If you’re looking to expand your business to Algeria, Marzuna offers specialized hiring solutions tailored to your needs. Additionally, leveraging an Employer of Record (EOR) service provides greater flexibility and the capacity to engage in projects of varying durations. You can initiate operations with a minimal workforce and effortlessly scale up as your business grows.

Connect with Marzuna’s experts today to explore these options in more detail and pave the way for your successful expansion in Algeria!

Recruiting in Algeria

Just like in any organization, the recruitment process in Algerian companies adheres to a structured sequence of steps:

  • Career Opportunity and Application: The process begins with job seekers discovering career opportunities and submitting their applications, usually involving the online submission of a curriculum vitae (CV) and a cover letter.
  • Initial Telephone Interview: Candidates who meet the initial criteria often undergo a preliminary telephone interview, serving as the first screening stage.
  • First-Round Interviews: Subsequently, shortlisted candidates participate in the first-round interviews, where their qualifications, experience, and compatibility with the organization are further evaluated.
  • Assessments: Depending on the role and company, candidates may be subjected to various assessments, such as technical tests or psychometric evaluations, to gauge their suitability for the position.
  • Second-Round Interview: In some cases, a second-round interview is conducted to make the final determination before extending an offer of employment.

As for sourcing talent, there are multiple avenues to explore in Algeria:

Job Portals: Consider utilizing job portals like Upwork, bayt.com/, https://aquaculturetalent.com/, and https://www.rekrute.com/ to identify potential candidates.

Print Advertising: To reach a wider audience, advertising job opportunities in Algerian magazines and newspapers is a viable option. Prominent publications like Le Soir d’Algerie, El Maudjahid Newspaper, and El Massa can be effective platforms for job listings.

If you prefer a hassle-free approach to talent acquisition in Algeria, Marzuna offers comprehensive Employer of Record (EOR) solutions. Our service specializes in sourcing, vetting, and recruiting top-tier talent, ensuring that you secure the best fit for your organization’s needs.

Probation & Termination

Probation Period and Termination of Service in Algeria

In Algeria, it is within an employer’s rights to initiate a probation period for a new employee. This probationary phase should not extend beyond six months, except for higher-level positions, which may allow for a probation period of up to 12 months.

Termination of employment in Algeria can transpire through various means, including mutual consent or upon the conclusion of an agreed-upon employment term. It is essential to understand that termination can occur as a result of actions taken by either the employer or the employee.

In situations involving termination, employers are obligated to provide notice, barring cases of serious misconduct by the employee. The standard notice period typically spans six months (or up to 12 months for skilled employees), with an additional five days added for each year of service, reaching a maximum of 30 days.

Employees are entitled to compensation in the form of cash if they are dismissed under certain conditions, which include:

  • Having worked for the company for a minimum of two years.
  • Being terminated for reasons unrelated to misconduct.

To facilitate your business expansion in Algeria while ensuring compliance with probation and termination regulations, we invite you to reach out to Marzuna’s experts. Our Employer of Record (EOR) solutions encompass contract management, oversight of onboarding and probationary periods, and efficient management of employee terminations, tailored to the unique needs of your organization.

EOR Solution

An EOR, short for Employer of Record, serves as a crucial intermediary entity in the realm of global workforce management. It operates as a trusted third-party organization, effectively becoming the employer on record for a company’s overseas workforce. This entails shouldering the full spectrum of formal employment responsibilities, offering a streamlined and lawful approach to engaging with international talent.

Marzuna’s specialized EOR solution in Algeria is designed to simplify and streamline your expansion efforts. Our comprehensive service includes:

Visa and Work Permit Facilitation: We take charge of arranging visas and work permits for your employees, ensuring a smooth entry into Algeria.

Local Payroll Management: We provide a registered entity for compliant payroll processing within the country, ensuring adherence to all local labor laws, including contract terms and worker protection policies.

Compliance and Legal Expertise: Our team offers valuable guidance on essential aspects such as notice periods, termination regulations, and severance pay, ensuring full compliance with Algerian labor regulations.

By acting as the primary point of contact between your employees and local government authorities, Marzuna’s EOR service acts as your host country interface, simplifying complex administrative tasks and enabling you to focus on your core business goals.

To embark on a successful expansion journey in Algeria, while upholding local legal requirements, and to explore tailor-made solutions for all your HR needs, take the first step by scheduling a demo with Marzuna’s EOR experts today.

Types of Visas in Algeria

Algeria offers a variety of visas to accommodate different purposes of travel. The main visa categories include:

Tourist Visa: Designed for individuals looking to explore Algeria for leisure and tourism. This visa allows for a predetermined stay without engaging in business or work activities in the host country.

Business Visa: Issued to foreign nationals visiting Algeria for business-related trips. Businesspeople, company representatives, or employees of foreign companies may apply for this visa.

Study Visa: Intended for foreign nationals seeking to pursue educational opportunities in Algeria, ensuring smooth entry into the country for academic purposes.

Work Visa: For those planning to work in Algeria on a long-term basis. Individuals working for specific companies for no more than 90 days can opt for a temporary work visa instead.

Algeria Work Visa Requirements

While the specific requirements for each type of Algeria work visa may vary, common documentation expected from all candidates includes:

  • An original passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended entry date.
  • At least one blank passport page for the visa stamp.
  • A fully completed and signed visa application form.
  • A recent passport-sized photograph taken within the last three months.
  • An invitation letter from an Algerian host.
  • A copy of the host’s ID, passport, or consular card.
  • Evidence of employment status, typically in the form of a company document or letter.
  • Proof of financial means, often presented as a bank statement or payslip.
  • Proof of a booked plane ticket.
  • Confirmation of payment of the visa fee.
  • A valid work permit.
  • A copy of the work contract.

Application Process

Candidates have the option to submit their documents in person at an Algerian consulate or embassy, mail them, or enlist the services of an authorized visa application agency.

In the case of an in-person application, candidates must schedule an appointment with the consulate or embassy in their country of residence. These organizations will guide applicants through the application process, document collection, and submission during the appointment. Additionally, candidates may undergo an interview, where they could be asked about the purpose of their trip, job details, or income. Subsequently, visa fees are paid, and applicants await the processing of their application.

For a streamlined experience in managing your employees’ work visas, Marzuna’s Employer of Record (EOR) solutions cover all your needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.

Types of Algerian Work Visas

Algerian work visas, tailored to distinct purposes, include:

Algeria Work Visa: Requirements for this visa encompass work authorization issued by an Algerian employment office, a copy of the employment contract, a letter from the employer, the start date of employment, work designation, and assurance of covering living expenses and repatriation costs by the employer.

Algeria Official/Diplomatic Visa: Necessary documentation involves a letter of invitation from Algerian authorities and additional proof of diplomatic or official travel, such as a letter from the government department where you work.

Algeria Business Visa: Applicants should provide a letter from their employer detailing their position, the purpose of travel, and confirmation of expense coverage. Additionally, an invitation letter from the Algerian company you plan to visit or conduct business with is required.

Algeria Temporary Work Visa: Requirements include work authorization issued by an Algerian employment office, a copy of your employment contract, a letter from your employer indicating your job title, position, the purpose of travel, and a commitment to cover living expenses and repatriation costs.

Navigating the Algerian visa landscape is simplified through Marzuna’s expertise in managing work visas. Contact us to explore how we can assist you in this process.

Work Permits

Once you arrive in Algeria, the next step is to secure a work and residence permit that authorizes your employment within the country. The process entails specific requirements, and these typically include:

  • A valid travel document.
  • Completion of the designated application form.
  • Two passport-sized photos.
  • Temporary work authorization.
  • An educational certificate.
  • A comprehensive resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
  • A passport with a minimum validity of at least six months beyond your arrival date in Algeria.
  • A residence permit application form.
  • A medical certificate.
  • An official letter from your prospective employer.

Notably, the Algerian work permit process remains uniform for candidates from all nations. The application procedure, document prerequisites, and issuance of the work permit are standardized for all foreign applicants.

It’s important to emphasize that obtaining a work permit in Algeria hinges on having a valid job offer in hand. This means you cannot obtain a work permit in Algeria without first securing employment. For a seamless and efficient process in securing work permits for your employees, consider leveraging Marzuna’s EOR solutions in Algeria. Our experts are well-equipped to navigate the intricacies of work permit procedures, ensuring a smooth expansion experience. Get in touch with Marzuna experts today to explore how we can assist you in your endeavors.

Payroll & Taxes in Algeria

When it comes to payroll processing in Algeria, companies often have three primary options to consider:

  • Internal Payroll: This approach entails handling all aspects of payroll in-house. While it provides control, it necessitates a substantial budget and a dedicated staff well-versed in Algeria’s employment laws.
  • Remote Payroll: A remote payroll system is managed from the parent company’s location and includes all employees, even those in subsidiary companies. However, employees in the subsidiary may have different tax regulations than those in the parent company.
  • Algerian Payroll Processing Company: For companies looking to outsource payroll management, partnering with an Algerian payroll company is an option. It offers convenience, but the responsibility for compliance remains with the company.

Taxation Regulations:

Algeria employs a progressive tax rate, meaning that as an employee’s income rises, so does their tax liability. Employers are required to register for income tax within two months of establishing their company. Corporate tax rates can vary by industry.

Payroll Requirements:

Payslip: Algerian labor legislation mandates that employers provide payslips to their employees at the time of salary payments. This document should include various details, such as the employer’s name and address, the employee’s name, the period and hours worked, gross and net salaries, and withheld amounts.

Banking Requirements Related to Payroll:

The majority of employers in Algeria utilize bank transfers to disburse salaries. However, making payments to non-resident or foreign accounts may require special authorization from the Bank of Algeria or another financial institution.

Taxation in Algeria:

  • Income Tax: Progressive rates apply, starting at 0% for income up to DZD 10,000 and reaching 35% for income over DZD 120,000.
  • Corporate Tax: Levied on economic activities conducted in Algeria, with rates ranging from 19% to 26% depending on the type of activity.
  • Business Activity Tax: Imposed on the turnover of profit-making activities not covered by income tax, set at 2%.
  • Real Estate Tax: Varied rates depending on property type and location.
  • Personal Property Tax: Applicable to individuals with property in Algeria, approximately 35%.
  • Interior Consumption Tax: Levied on all consumers in Algeria, with capital gains taxed at 15% for residents and 20% for non-residents.
  • Value Added Tax (VAT): Indirect tax with different rates, including a special reduced rate of 7% for certain products and a standard rate of 17% for services and goods not covered by another rate.

Navigating the complexities of payroll and taxation in Algeria can be resource-intensive. Marzuna has the expertise to manage these HR functions, ensuring compliance with Algerian regulations and reducing the burden on your company’s resources. Contact Marzuna experts to explore tailored solutions for your expansion needs in Algeria.

Registering a company in Algeria can be a complex undertaking, and it’s crucial to understand the types of companies, both local and foreign, that are eligible for registration in the country.

Marzuna’s Employer of Record (EOR) services are here to simplify and guide you through the entire incorporation process, ensuring a seamless journey from inception to completion. For comprehensive information on the registration process and how we can assist you, reach out to our team of experts today.