A new inter-ministerial directive has introduced updates to the residency training criteria for public general practitioners in Algeria's southern and highland areas. The modifications raise the maximum age for applicants to 50 years and reduce the mandatory professional experience to two years. These reforms seek to improve specialized medical staffing and patient care in these specific regions. The Minister of Health confirmed that the 2026 residency entrance exam has been postponed to accommodate these changes. Candidates must now apply through a dedicated digital platform and commit to a minimum of six years of service in local health institutions upon completion of their specialization.