The Algerian Embassy in Italy (Malta and San Marino) has called on members of the community residing within its jurisdiction and registered with its consular services to comply with the new procedures for importing a used vehicle under five years old within the framework of the Certificate of Change of Residence (CCR).
It was clarified that the operation comes in implementation of the provisions of Article 127 of the 2026 Finance Law, which defines the conditions for customs clearance of imported vehicles.
The procedures require the vehicle to be in good working order and free from any major or dangerous defects.
They also stipulate the necessity for the vehicle to comply with safety and environmental protection standards, or the manufacturer's specifications where applicable.
In the event that the vehicle does not meet these conditions, it will be subjected to an additional inspection by an authorized expert in Algeria.
If non-compliance is proven, it will be re-exported at the importer's expense, or legal measures will be taken in accordance with the applicable customs legislation.
Those wishing to benefit from this measure must submit essential documents before obtaining the Certificate of Change of Residence (CCR).
These documents include the vehicle registration certificate or its equivalent, and a document proving the transfer of ownership such as a purchase invoice or a sales contract.
They also include an administrative certificate confirming that there is no lien on the vehicle.
It is also required to submit a recent document, not exceeding three months, issued by a competent authority in the country of registration, attesting to the good condition of the vehicle.
The Embassy confirmed that the age of the vehicle is calculated from the date of its entry into Algeria, as indicated in the transport documents.
It is worth noting that Algerian Customs revealed new amendments affecting the Customs Code, included in the 2026 Finance Law, primarily concerning the vehicle import file.
These amendments covered used cars under five years old, intended for beneficiaries of the change of residence system and members of the diplomatic corps.
According to an official circular from the General Directorate of Customs No. 10/011/26, these provisions entered into force starting January 1, 2026.
The new procedures excluded vehicles that had reached Algerian ports before their effective date, with the approval of parallel measures concerning currency conversion and the prohibition of sending funds via mail.
