When starting a business in Algeria, you quickly come across an administrative alphabet: NIS, NIF, RC, CNRC, NRC… These identifiers are fundamental to operating legally and meeting tax obligations. This guide explains what each one is, what it's for and how to obtain it.
The NIS — Statistical Identification Number
The NIS is assigned by the National Office of Statistics (ONS). It identifies the business in the national statistical system and is essential for any administrative formality.
The NIS is automatically assigned upon registration in the trade register. It is required to:
- Open a professional bank account and activate online payment
- Participate in public tenders
- Conduct customs operations
- Any dealings with public administrations
The NIF — Tax Identification Number
The NIF is assigned by the General Directorate of Taxes (DGI) upon the fiscal existence declaration. It identifies the taxpayer and must appear on all invoices.
The NIF must compulsorily appear on:
- All invoices issued
- Tax declarations (G50, G4, IRG, IBS…)
- Commercial contracts
- Correspondence with the tax administration
- Company letterhead
The Trade Register (RC)
The RC (or NRC) is issued by the National Centre of Trade Register (CNRC). It attests to the legal existence of the commercial activity and is mandatory for anyone conducting a commercial activity.
How to Obtain Your Trade Register?
-
Prepare the file Copy of national ID, criminal record (bulletin no. 3), lease agreement or domiciliation certificate, company articles of association (for legal entities).
-
Go to the CNRC in your wilaya CNRC offices are present in all wilayas. The application can now be initiated online via the sijilcom.cnrc.dz portal.
-
Pay the registration fees Fees vary depending on the type of activity and legal form. Budget between 5,000 and 15,000 DA for a SARL or EURL.
-
Collect the RC The RC is issued within 24 to 72 hours. It is valid until the change of activity or legal form.
-
Fiscal existence declaration Within 30 days of obtaining the RC, you must register with the tax office in your commune to obtain your NIF.
Summary of Differences
These three identifiers are complementary and each has its own role:
- NIS: statistical identifier → for relations with the State and national statistics
- NIF: tax identifier → for tax declarations and invoices
- RC: proof of legal commercial existence → to conduct a commercial activity
Online Procedures: sijilcom and jibayatic
Algeria is progressively digitalising its administrative procedures:
- sijilcom.cnrc.dz: CNRC portal for trade register procedures (consultation, modification, removal)
- jibayatic.dz: DGI portal for online tax declarations, e-payment and tax file tracking
- ANADE / ANSEJ: business creation support agencies, with assistance for first-time entrepreneurs