Capago International to Handle French Visa Services in Algeria from 2025

Dive Right Into

Key Takeaways

• Starting April 7, 2025, Capago International will replace VFS Global and TLScontact as the French visa processor in Algeria.
• Visa submissions must start online, with in-person document submission and biometric data required at Capago centers in four cities.
• Long-stay visa applications open three months before departure; short-stay visas no more than six months prior.

Starting April 7, 2025, residents of Algeria will experience a shift in how French visas are processed. Capago International, a French visa processing firm, is set to take over operations from the current providers, VFS Global and TLScontact. This change is expected to bring updated services, new locations, and better technology to the visa application process, specifically for those looking to visit France 🇫🇷.

Capago International to Handle French Visa Services in Algeria from 2025

Capago International: The New Provider

Capago International, established in 2010, will officially become the primary service provider for processing French visa applications in Algeria. Replacing VFS Global and TLScontact, Capago will oversee operations at four central locations:

Algiers
Oran
Annaba
Constantine

This new network intends to make access easier for Algiers 🇩🇿 residents, aiming to reduce travel time and improve convenience for applicants across the country. French consulates will continue to make the final decision on all visas.

What’s Changing in the Application Process?

Even though the main steps in applying for a French visa remain the same, Capago International will introduce several adjustments:

Application Steps:

Start Online: Applicants begin their journey on the France Visas official platform, as before.
Redirection to Capago: After completing the initial online application, visitors will then be redirected to Capago International’s website.
Set an Appointment: Through the Capago platform, applicants can book a date and time for in-person submission of their forms and documents.
Personal Visit Required: During the appointment, applicants will need to submit their documents in person at one of Capago International’s new centers.

This system ensures that Capago assists applicants throughout the process while forwarding completed requests to French consulates for review and approval.

Expanded Services by Capago International

Capago International aims not only to simplify the process but also to offer enhanced support for applicants. Some of their notable services include:

Biometric Data Collection: Capturing applicants’ photos and fingerprints.
Tracking Progress: Updates can be viewed via internet or SMS for easy tracking.
Administrative Support: Applicants can access passport photos, photocopying services, and help with their applications at the centers.
Group Application Management: Teams or families applying together will benefit from streamlined “batch processing.”

Capago also plans to deliver submitted passports directly to applicants through an express mail service.

Technology and Human Interaction

Technology appears to play a significant role in Capago International’s upcoming operations. The company aims to improve processing times by electronically forwarding data to French consulates within 24 hours of submission. Meanwhile, they also emphasize personal service, offering applicants the option to speak with staff members directly—either in person, over the phone, or via Capago’s digital communication methods.

New Office Locations and Hiring in Algeria

Capago International has begun preparations to establish its operations across Algeria. In addition to the centralized offices in Algiers, Oran, Annaba, and Constantine, the primary headquarters will be located in the El Biar municipality of Algiers, on Omar Bouneghaz Street.

The company is also actively hiring staff as part of its launch. Announcements on Capago’s website show current job openings in roles such as accountants, receptionists, and operations managers. This rollout signals that steps are already being taken to ensure these centers are ready for operations by April 2025.

Financial Considerations for Applicants

Although specific fees for Capago International’s services haven’t yet been disclosed, recent data highlights the financial aspects of French visa applications in Algeria. In a report presented to the French National Assembly, it was revealed that French consulates in Algeria earned approximately 13 million euros from rejected visa applications. This amount is part of the larger 56-million-euro revenue from denied visas across Africa.

For Algerian applicants, this highlights the importance of submitting complete and accurate applications to avoid rejection and lost fees.

Biometric Data and Other Requirements

One critical aspect of the process remains untouched: the collection of biometric data. Applicants aged 12 or older will have to submit their fingerprints and photo in person. However, if the applicant holds a biometric Schengen visa issued within the past 59 months, they may not need to resubmit this data.

Documents applicants should prepare include:

A valid passport with specific page and validity requirements.
Two recent ID photos that meet ISO/IEC standards.
Supporting evidence like travel bookings, proof of income, and accommodation details.
Application fees, typically disclosed at the time of submission.

It’s essential for applicants to ensure that documents in languages other than French or English are translated into French before submission.

Clearer Timelines for Applicants

Capago International doesn’t just bring new services—they also provide clarity on the timeline for application submissions. Algerian residents are advised to follow these guidelines:

Long-Stay Visas: Apply no earlier than three months and no later than two weeks before departure.
Short-Stay Visas: Must be submitted no earlier than six months and no later than two weeks prior to departure.

Checking appointment availability in advance and planning accordingly can save a lot of stress as deadlines approach.

Impact on Non-French Visas

While these changes impact only those applying for French visas, other European countries have chosen to maintain their agreements with VFS Global. For instance, nations like Italy 🇮🇹 and Turkey 🇹🇷 will continue to rely on VFS Global for visa processing. Thus, Algerians looking to travel elsewhere in Europe will still use the current centers, with no immediate disruption to those services.

The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters

This transition from VFS Global and TLScontact to Capago International reflects broader efforts by France 🇫🇷 to improve the visa application experience for foreign visitors. Over the years, visa processing has faced its fair share of challenges, particularly with long wait times and rejections. The choice to partner with Capago International signals France’s commitment to creating faster, more reliable processes while accommodating the unique needs of applicants in Algeria.

VisaVerge.com’s investigation reveals that France has been gradually modernizing its visa procedures by adopting better technology and expanding service locations. The changes happening in Algeria are part of a trend we may see expanding to other countries in the future.

Next Steps for Applicants

Algerian residents planning to visit France should prepare for the upcoming shift and ensure their documents meet all requirements. As the April 7, 2025 transition approaches, it’s advisable to monitor updates from France Visas’ official site and Capago International for any announcements or adjustments. Starting early on application preparations will help ensure a smoother experience under the new system.

The collaboration between Capago International and French consulates holds the promise of faster applications and a more user-friendly process, presenting opportunities for both applicants and those facilitating their journeys. For details on visa criteria and appointments, visit the France Visas official portal.

Learn Today

Visa Application → The formal process of submitting required documents and forms to request permission to enter a foreign country.
Biometric Data → Physical identifiers, such as fingerprints and facial photographs, collected for identity verification during visa applications.
Schengen Visa → A visa that allows travel across multiple European countries within the Schengen Area, including France.
Consulate → An official office or representative of a country that assists citizens abroad and processes visas locally.
Appointment Availability → Scheduled times offered by a service provider for visa applicants to submit their documents and attend required procedures.

This Article in a Nutshell

Big Changes for French Visas in Algeria

Starting April 7, 2025, Capago International replaces VFS Global and TLScontact as Algeria’s French visa processor. New centers in Algiers, Oran, Constantine, and Annaba promise upgraded services, technology, and convenience. Applicants should prepare early and stay updated for a smoother process. France prioritizes efficiency—travelers should too. Bon voyage!