How to open a Centeem account in 5 minutes
The complete guide: from downloading the app to your first transaction. With identity verification tips, fixes for common blockers, and links to our help center to go further.
You've heard about Centeem and you want to try it. Good news: opening an account literally takes 5 minutes, with no branch appointment, no paperwork. Here's the full procedure, what you need, and what to do if it gets stuck.
Before you start
Prepare these 3 things:
- Your Algerian biometric CIN (the new one, with a chip) OR your passport. The old-generation paper CIN is not supported — you need the chip version.
- An Android 7+ or iOS 13+ smartphone compatible with contactless reading. All recent phones are, including recent iPhones.
- Proper lighting for the selfie (natural light or a good lamp). No studio needed, but avoid backlight that creates shadows.
Step 1 — Download the app
Go to the App Store or Google Play and search for Centeem. The app is free. Once installed, open it: you arrive on the welcome screen. Choose your language (FR / AR / EN) then tap "Create an account".
Step 2 — Enter your details
The app asks you for:
- Your Algerian phone number (to receive a verification SMS)
- Your email (to receive receipts + security alerts)
- You choose Personal or Pro (you can add the second later on the same identity)
A 6-digit code arrives on your phone — enter it to verify.
Step 3 — Secure reading of your CIN
This is the most "magical" step, but also the one that can get stuck.
The app asks you to hold your CIN against the back of your phone. The chip is usually at the center of the card. For your phone, it depends on the model:
- Samsung / Pixel / OnePlus: back, top-center (under the camera)
- iPhone: at the top, just under the rear camera
- Xiaomi / Oppo / Huawei: center-back, sometimes lower-center
Keep the CIN firmly held for 3 to 5 seconds. The app does: (1) reading of the secure chip, (2) extraction of the data and the official photo, (3) cryptographic verification of the signature. If it works, you see your name appear on screen.
⚠️ If the reading doesn't work: check that (1) contactless reading is enabled in the system settings, (2) you don't have a thick metal/leather case blocking the signal, (3) the CIN is firmly held without moving. As a last resort, the app switches to photo mode (front + back of the CIN) — a bit less instant but it works.
Step 4 — Verification selfie (liveness)
The app takes a selfie to compare your face with the official photo on your CIN. This is the famous liveness detection: we make sure it's really YOU in front of the camera (not a photo, not a video).
Follow the on-screen instructions: blink your eyes, turn your head slightly. It's quick (10 seconds max). To maximize your chances of success:
- Face well centered in the oval frame
- No sunglasses, no mask, no cap
- Light on your face (not behind you)
- Natural expression (you don't have to smile)
Step 5 — Set up your PIN
You create a 6-digit PIN that will be used for every sensitive operation (payment, withdrawal, transfer). Choose a PIN that YOU will remember but that isn't obvious (avoid 123456, your date of birth, etc.).
Right after, the app offers to enable biometrics (FaceID or fingerprint). We strongly recommend it: it replaces the PIN in 99% of cases and is MUCH faster. The PIN stays as a backup if biometrics fail.
💡 Your PIN is NEVER shared with Centeem. It is stored only on your phone (Android Keystore / iOS Secure Enclave). If you forget it, you'll have to go through a recovery procedure with identity re-verification.
That's it — your account is active
Well done, you arrive on the home screen. Your balance is 0 DZD — that's normal, you now need to top it up. You have 3 methods: BaridiMob transfer from your Algérie Poste app, CCP cheque photo, or cash deposit at a partner agent near you.
To go further: see the top-up guide or find the nearest Centeem agent.
FAQ — quick questions
What if my KYC is rejected?
You receive a notification with the reason (blurry photo, damaged CIN, non-compliant selfie…). You can restart the KYC immediately with a better photo. If it fails 3 times, a Centeem agent contacts you within 24h for manual help.
How long does final validation take?
For level 1 KYC individuals (CIN + selfie), it's instant. For level 2 (higher limits) or for Pro accounts (which require RC + NIF), manual admin validation takes 24-72 h.
I'm a tourist, is it the same?
Almost. Instead of the CIN, you scan your passport (secure reading of the chip) + you take a photo of your valid Algerian visa. See the dedicated tourist page for the details.