Since law No. 22-23 of 18 December 2022, any individual who runs a service activity alone can work legally as self-employed (auto-entrepreneur), with a card issued by the National Agency for the Self-Employed (ANAE), simplified taxation and social protection. This guide explains the conditions, the steps and what it concretely changes for a freelancer.
Who can become self-employed?
- Any adult individual of Algerian nationality, resident, who runs alone an activity on the list of eligible activities set by decree.
- Mostly services: development and design, digital marketing and community management, writing and translation, consulting, training, IT maintenance, photo and video, delivery, personal services, digital crafts…
- An annual turnover ceiling applies; above it you must switch to a sole proprietorship or a company. Check the ceiling in force on the ANAE platform.
- Regulated professions (doctor, lawyer, architect, chartered accountant…) fall under their own bodies and are not concerned.
Getting the card: the steps
- 1
Create your account on the ANAE platform
Online registration with your ID, address, activity and proof of qualification or experience depending on the activity.
- 2
Submit the file
Form, copy of ID card, photo, birth certificate, proof of address, degree or certificate depending on the activity. Using your home address as business address is allowed.
- 3
Receive the card
After validation, ANAE issues the self-employed card, valid for several years and renewable. It counts as registration: no trade register.
- 4
Complete the registration
Get your NIF from the tax office, affiliate with CASNOS, open a CCP or bank account dedicated to the activity (recommended for traceability).
What it costs: IFU and CASNOS
| Item | Rule | Example for DZD 1,200,000 annual turnover |
|---|---|---|
| Single flat tax (IFU) | 0.5% of turnover, in lieu of IRG, VAT and TAP; annual minimum set by the finance act | DZD 6,000 (or the annual minimum if higher) |
| VAT | Not collected, not deductible: your invoices are VAT-free | — |
| CASNOS | Contribution computed on declared income, with an annual minimum based on the SNMG; opens healthcare and pension rights | Varies with the declaration; check the year’s scale |
| Filings | Annual turnover declaration (G12) and IFU payment per the tax calendar | Once a year, online |
Invoicing properly
- Mandatory mentions: your name, address, NIF, ANAE card number, the client (name, address, NIF if a company), the date, a sequential number, the description of the service, the amount excluding VAT and your regime (IFU, not subject to VAT).
- Sign a quote or purchase order before starting: it protects payment.
- Companies pay by transfer, cheque or CIB card; ask for a 30–50% deposit on long assignments.
- Keep invoices and statements at least ten years: they are your proof of income.
Advantages and limits
| Advantages | Limits |
|---|---|
| Fast, free creation, no trade register or capital | Solo work: hiring is impossible |
| Simple taxation: 0.5% of turnover, one declaration a year | Turnover ceiling; closed list of activities |
| CASNOS social cover (healthcare, pension) | No unemployment insurance; contributions due even in slow months |
| Legal invoices for companies, banks and platforms | Large clients sometimes ask for a trade register: explain the status, it is provided by law |
| Compatible with studies or a private-sector job, subject to your employment contract | Civil servants are subject to the civil-service rules on combining activities |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a trade register to be self-employed?
No. The card issued by ANAE counts as registration. You do need a NIF and a CASNOS affiliation.
What tax does a self-employed person pay?
A single flat tax of 0.5% of turnover, with an annual minimum. It replaces IRG, VAT and TAP on this activity.
Can I invoice a foreign company?
Yes, in compliance with exchange regulations: payments from abroad go through your bank, in foreign currency converted to dinars. Ask your bank about the supporting documents required.
Can I be employed and self-employed at the same time?
In the private sector, yes, unless your employment contract has an exclusivity clause. Civil servants are subject to their statute’s rules: check before applying for the card.
What is the difference with the ANADE scheme or an EURL?
The self-employed person works alone, without capital or employees, at 0.5% tax. ANADE funds the creation of a micro-enterprise; an EURL is a company, with trade register, VAT and full accounting.