Extremists threats – Algiers 15 March 2015

The U.S. Embassy would like to remind American citizens that, although the Algerian government places a great deal of importance on security, violent extremist groups based in Algeria and the region may seek to target foreigners, including in the city of Algiers.

U.S. citizens should think creatively on how to maintain a low-profile and avoid predictable behavior, such as by varying routes and times of travel.  As always, remain alert to your surroundings.

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We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Algeria enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at travel.state.gov.  STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy to contact you in an emergency.  If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the U.S. Embassy in Algiers.

Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, including the Travel Warning for Algeria, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution.  Read the Country Specific Information for Algeria.  For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions.  You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy is located at 5 Chemin Cheikh Bachir El-Ibrahimi in the El Biar district of Algiers, and is open 0800-1630, Telephone [213] (0) 770-08-2000.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance outside of business hours, the emergency after-hours number for the U.S. Embassy/Consulate is[213] (0) 770-08-2200.