Algeria Implements Stamp Duty for Apostille Certificates

Algeria has introduced a stamp duty for Apostille certificates, effective Thursday, July 9, 2026. The Directorate General of Taxes announced the payment methods for this new fee, which is set at 1500 Algerian Dinars per certificate. This announcement by the Directorate General of Taxes detailed the procedural framework for the collection of the new duty. Algeria Post confirmed that the service officially became effective on July 9, 2026, aligning with the regulatory timeline. The applicant for the Apostille certificate service is responsible for bearing these associated fees, ensuring that the cost of authentication is covered by the individual or entity requesting the service. This new measure aims to standardize the process for document authentication for international use.

Payment and Coupon System

Payment for the stamp duty can be made at designated tax collector offices or through authorized Algeria Post offices, according to official directives. These payment locations have been established to provide broad accessibility for citizens across the country. Upon successful payment, the applicant receives a secured coupon that has been officially stamped. This stamped coupon serves as proof of payment and is an integral part of the authentication process. This coupon is then required to be affixed directly to the Apostille certificate, physically linking the payment to the authenticated document. The system ensures transparency and accountability in the collection of the new stamp duty.

Citizens have the option to purchase the Apostille coupon directly from any post office branch across the country. This widespread availability through Algeria Post's network simplifies the acquisition process for applicants. The system is designed to integrate the payment and certificate process, making it a streamlined procedure for individuals seeking document authentication. In cases where the coupon is lost, damaged, or stolen, a process for replacement has been established. This provision addresses potential issues that applicants might encounter after initial purchase. A second copy of the coupon can be requested by the applicant. This replacement copy is issued for a reduced fee of 600 Algerian Dinars, as outlined by the new regulations, providing a cost-effective solution for unforeseen circumstances.

Scope of Application

The stamp duty procedure applies exclusively to official documents intended for use in countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention. This specific application ensures that the authentication process adheres to international standards recognized by member states of the Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents. This regulatory framework encompasses a range of official documents issued by various Algerian ministries. These include the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Ministry of National Education, and the Ministry of Vocational Training and Education. The requirement ensures that documents used internationally meet established authentication standards for nations participating in the Convention, facilitating their legal recognition abroad. The full list of ministries involved notes the broad impact of this new procedure across governmental sectors.

Digital Submission and Launch

Requests for Apostille certificates are submitted electronically, either through the national portal or via methods specified by the relevant administrations. This digital submission process streamlines the application procedure for citizens, reducing the need for physical visits and accelerating the overall timeline for obtaining certificates. It represents a modernization effort to enhance efficiency and user convenience.

Algeria Post officially launched its Apostille coupon marketing service today, Thursday. This launch marks a significant step in the practical implementation of the new stamp duty. The new service facilitates access to the required coupons for the stamp duty, which is set at 1500 Algerian Dinars per certificate. This launch is part of the broader implementation of the stamp duty for Apostille certificates in Algeria, which became effective on July 9, 2026. The availability of coupons through post offices is a key component of the new system, making the process accessible nationwide.