Choose the company type and verify eligibility
Foreign investors must confirm eligibility under Law 12-205 (foreign investment code). Some sectors require prior approval from the Ministry of Commerce. Check the CNRC (National Centre for Registration of Companies) website for updates on restricted activities.
Prepare required documents
For foreign investors, an API (investment authorization) may be required, issued by the Agency for the Promotion and Development of Investment (APDI).
Deposit share capital in an Algerian bank
Pitfall: Some banks delay processing for foreign investors. Confirm acceptance of foreign currency deposits in advance.
Draft and notarize the articles of association
A notary public must authenticate the document. Foreign drafts require official translation into Arabic or French.
Submit the dossier to the CNRC
Processing time varies by governorate. Some CNRC branches offer online pre-submission to reduce delays.
Obtain the company registration certificate
Pitfall: Minor errors in the dossier may lead to rejection. Verify all details before submission.
Register for taxes and social security
Foreign companies must also register with the Algerian Tax Authority if generating local income.
Open a corporate bank account
Pitfall: Some banks require physical presence of shareholders. Confirm procedures in advance.
Register with the Chamber of Commerce (if applicable)
Publish in the official gazette
Obtain sector-specific licenses (if needed)
Check with the Ministry of Commerce for sector-specific requirements.
FAQ
2. How long does company registration take in Algeria?
Processing time varies by governorate. Simple cases (SARL) may take 2–4 weeks, while complex dossiers (SA with foreign shareholders) can take 2–3 months. Confirm timelines with the local CNRC office.
3. What is the minimum share capital for a SARL?
The legal minimum is 50,000 DZD. However, some banks may require higher deposits for verification. The amount must be fully subscribed and deposited before registration.
What to do next
Start by verifying your eligibility under Algerian law, then prepare the notarized documents. Contact the CNRC or a local business advisor to confirm current fees and deadlines, as these can change. Ensure all translations and bank procedures are handled before submission to avoid delays.
💡 Starting a business in Algeria? GlobalStart guides you step by step: procedures, real costs, company forms (SARL, EURL, SPA) and CNRC registration.