Algiers, Algeria – France has streamlined its visa application procedures for Algerian nationals, particularly benefiting students, with the appointment of Capago International as its new visa service provider in Algeria. This change, effective from April 2025, replaces previous providers VFS Global and TLS Contact, marking a significant shift in how Schengen visa applications are handled in the country.
No More Appointment Bookings Required for Students
One of the most impactful changes under the new system is the elimination of the need for Algerian students to book appointments for submitting their visa applications. This advancement has been made possible through the automation of the slot allocation system, which significantly reduces waiting times and simplifies the overall application process.
Students will now receive an automated message confirming the completion of their Campus France procedure, including the date and time of their visa appointment. It is important for applicants to monitor their email inboxes closely—especially spam or junk folders—to ensure they do not miss this crucial notification. Once an appointment is scheduled, it cannot be changed, making advance planning essential.
Capago International: New Visa Provider for France in Algeria
Capago International officially began operations in April 2025, taking over from VFS Global and TLS Contact as France’s visa outsourcing partner in Algeria. While TLS Contact continues to operate in other countries—including neighboring Morocco—it has also taken on new responsibilities for the United States. As of April 18, 2025, TLS Contact has replaced VFS Global for handling French visa applications in the U.S., with ten newly established visa application centers across the country.
Furthermore, TLS Contact has extended its reach within Morocco, now offering services at a national level, including in the country’s southern regions.
Algerian Students: A Key Part of France’s International Academic Community
France remains a top destination for international students, and Algeria plays a vital role in this dynamic. According to the latest Key Data on Student Mobility report published by Campus France, Algeria ranks among the top three countries of origin for international students in France—alongside Morocco and China.
During the 2022/2023 academic year, 32,147 Algerian students were enrolled in French higher education institutions, accounting for approximately 8% of the total international student population. This represents a 4% increase compared to the previous academic year, and a cumulative growth of 5% over a five-year period from 2017 to 2022.
