Living in Tunisia: An Expat’s Guide

Published on November 8, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Relocating to Tunisia as an expatriate can be a rewarding adventure, thanks to its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and pleasant Mediterranean climate. However, this transition requires careful preparation to best adapt to your new environment.

This guide is designed to support you through every step of your relocation by providing essential information on administrative procedures, housing options, and cultural aspects you’ll need to familiarize yourself with.

From understanding local customs to integrating into Tunisian society, this article offers practical advice and useful resources to facilitate your expatriate experience in this fascinating and diverse country.

Preparing Your Departure: Keys to Success

Essential Administrative Procedures Before Departing for Tunisia

• Passport: Required for any stay. For stays under 3 months, no visa is required for French nationals; for stays over 3 months, you must apply for a residence and/or work permit before departure from the Tunisian consulate in France.
• Visa and Residence Card: For stays over 90 days, a long-stay visa and temporary residence card are required. The application typically includes: proof of accommodation, stamped employment contract, valid passport, ID photos, visa/residence card application form.
• Work Permit: Mandatory before any professional activity. The application must be made before arrival.
• Registration with Local Authorities: Registration with the French embassy or consulate is highly recommended to access consular services and security information.
• Documents to Bring: Bank records, family record book, driver’s license (national and international), health cards, vaccination records, copies of income declarations, tax notices, civil documents.

Practical Tips for Choosing and Organizing Housing Remotely

• Use real estate agencies specializing in expatriate support.
• Prioritize neighborhoods popular with expatriates (Tunis, Sfax, Sousse, La Marsa, Sidi Bou Saïd, Carthage).
• Check proximity to amenities: schools, transportation, shops, healthcare facilities.
• Request a written lease, necessary for residence card applications.
• Budget for security deposits and first month’s rent.
• Use expatriate groups for recommendations or feedback.

Overview of Living Conditions in Tunisia and Important Cultural Aspects

Cost of Living: Generally lower than in France, but varies by city.

Healthcare: Adequate healthcare system, but international health insurance is recommended for access to the best facilities.

Language: Arabic is the official language, French is widely used in administration and commerce.

Culture:

• Respect local traditions, especially during Ramadan (dining, schedules).
• Appropriate dress code depending on location.
• Importance of family life and sense of hospitality.

Climate: Mediterranean on the coast, more continental inland.

Cultural Aspect	Key Points
Language	Official Arabic, common French
Religion	Predominantly Muslim
Social Life	Importance of family, hospitality
Customs	Respect for schedules and religious holidays

Financial Advice

• Opening a Local Bank Account: Possible with presentation of residence card, passport, and proof of address. Some banks require an employment contract.
• Currency Management: Euros are easily exchangeable, but importing or exporting Tunisian dinars is prohibited.
• Money Transfers: Prefer bank transfers to limit fees. Foreign pensions repatriated through a local bank may benefit from partial tax exemption.

Useful Resources and Contacts to Facilitate Integration

French Embassy in Tunisia
1 Place de l’Indépendance, Tunis
Tel: (00 216) 71 105 111

French Consulate in Tunis
1, Place de l’Indépendance – Tunis
Tel. (00 216) 71 105 000

Online Expatriate Groups: Facebook (“Français en Tunisie”, “Expatriés francophones à Tunis”), specialized forums (Expat.com, FemmExpat).

Local Associations: Union des Français de l’Étranger (UFE Tunisie), welcome associations for expatriates.

Expatriation Professionals: Specialized lawyers, tax experts, real estate agencies.

Important Information to Remember

• Administrative procedures should be initiated several months before departure.
• Registration in the register of French nationals abroad is highly recommended.
• Successful relocation depends on good cultural, administrative, and financial preparation.

Procedures and Formalities Upon Arrival

First Steps to Take Upon Arrival in Tunisia for an Expatriate

Have a valid passport (ID card alone is not sufficient).

For stays under 90 days: visa-free entry for many European nationals.

For stays over 90 days:

• Apply for a residence permit at the Ministry of Interior (local police station).
• Provide: rental contract, stamped employment contract, passport, proof of accommodation, ID photos, application form.
• Processing times: temporary residence card valid for one year, renewable; ordinary residence card valid for two years.

Obtain a work permit before any paid activity.

For retirees, provide proof of periodic pension transfer.

Visa Requirements

Type of Stay	Visa Required	Residence Card Required	Required Documents
Under 90 days	No	No	Passport
Over 90 days	Yes	Yes	Passport, rental contract, stamped employment contract, proof of accommodation, photos, application form
Retired (non-employed)	Yes	Yes	Proof of pension transfer, proof of accommodation, passport, photos, application form

Procedures for Accessing Housing

• Search for housing through real estate agencies, specialized websites, or expatriate networks.
• Sign a rental contract (lease) which will serve as proof of accommodation for administrative procedures.
• Documents needed for rental:

• Passport
• Proof of income
• Security deposit and/or possible guarantees

Opening a Bank Account in Tunisia

• Visit a bank with:

• Valid passport
• Residence card (or application receipt)
• Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)
• Proof of income

Processing time: generally quick opening (a few days).

Tips: prefer banks with expatriate experience.

Registration with Tunisian Social Security

Contact the National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM).

• Provide:

• Residence card
• Stamped employment contract
• Passport
• Proof of address

For retirees, provide pension certificate.

Processing time: varies by situation, allow several weeks.

Welcome Structures for New Arrivals

• Embassies and consulates (e.g., French Embassy in Tunis, French Consulate).
• Expatriate associations (Union des Français de l’Étranger, local groups).
• Real estate agencies and specialized relocation firms.
• Lawyers specialized in foreigner rights.

Tips for Adapting to Local Culture

• Familiarize yourself with social customs (respect for schedules, greetings, dress code).
• Learn basic Arabic or improve your French.
• Participate in local events and integrate through expatriate networks.
• Respect holidays and religious customs.
• Learn about food specialties and lifestyle habits.

Documents to Prepare Upon Arrival

• Passport and copies
• Rental contract or accommodation certificate
• Stamped employment contract
• ID photos
• Proof of income or pension
• Family record book, health records, insurance card
• Bank records

Useful Resources

Institution/Service	Contact/Access	Main Purpose
Ministry of Interior	Local police station	Residence card, registration
CNAM	Local Health Insurance Fund	Social security
French Embassy	Place de l’Indépendance, Tunis	Administrative assistance, advice
French Consulate	Place de l’Indépendance, Tunis	Administrative formalities
Expatriate Associations	UFE, social networks, specialized forums	Support, integration

Procedures to initiate within the first 90 days: registration with local authorities, housing search, bank account opening, social security registration, contact with welcome structures, and preparation of necessary documents.

Tips for Quick Integration in Tunisia as an Expatriate

Here are practical tips to facilitate your integration in Tunisia as an expatriate:

• Learn Language Basics: Mastering some Tunisian Arabic or improving your French greatly facilitates daily life and local interactions. Tunisians particularly appreciate foreigners’ efforts to speak their language, even at a basic level.
• Understand and Respect Customs and Traditions:
  • During Ramadan, it’s advised not to eat, drink, or smoke in public during daytime.
  • Family celebrations, particularly weddings, are major events. Participating or simply respecting these traditions promotes better community acceptance.
  • Hospitality is a core value. It’s common to be invited to share a meal or coffee; accepting these invitations shows openness.
• Choose Suitable Housing:
  • Prioritize neighborhoods known for welcoming expatriates, such as La Marsa, Carthage, or Gammarth in Tunis, where the international community is well-established.
  • Consult expatriate associations or online groups to find suitable and secure housing.
• Transportation:
  • Taxis are affordable and practical, but it’s recommended to agree on the price in advance or verify the meter is used.
  • Public transportation (buses, tramway, light metro in Tunis) is economical but can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Renting a car can offer more freedom, especially for exploring less-served regions.
• Local Cuisine:
  • Discovering Tunisian specialties like couscous, brik, or mechouia salad helps better understand the country’s culture.
  • Participating in cooking workshops or visiting local markets facilitates integration and interaction with locals.
• Meeting Locals and Expanding Social Network:
  • Participating in cultural events, festivals, or frequenting cafes and souks are excellent opportunities to build connections.
  • Joining sports clubs, cultural associations, or volunteer groups allows meeting both Tunisians and other expatriates.
• Volunteer Opportunities and Associations:
  • Getting involved in local association or charity projects is an effective way to discover Tunisian society from within and feel useful.

Aspect	Practical Recommendation
Language	Learn Tunisian Arabic or improve French
Customs	Respect Ramadan, family life, accept hospitality
Housing	Choose expatriate-friendly neighborhoods
Transportation	Prefer taxis, public transport, or car rental
Cuisine	Try local dishes, visit markets and workshops
Networking	Participate in events, associations, clubs, volunteering

Remaining open, curious, and respectful of cultural differences promotes harmonious and enriching integration.

Visa, Housing, and Legislation: Everything You Need to Know

Types of Visas for Relocating to Tunisia

Visa Type	Main Purpose	Duration	Issuance and Procedure
Short-stay Visa	Tourism, business, private visit	≤ 90 days	Exemption for many countries, including France. Passport required, valid at least 3 months after entry.
Long-stay Visa	Work, studies, long-term relocation	> 90 days	Application at Tunisian embassy or consulate in country of residence. Employment contract or admission letter required.
Work Visa	Employment activity	According to contract	Prior job offer mandatory. Detailed procedure below.

Procedures and Processing Times

• Complete visa application form (online for e-visa or paper version depending on consulate).
• Provide following documents:
  • Valid passport (at least 3 months after entry)
  • Recent ID photo
  • Proof of accommodation (rental contract, hotel reservation, hosting certificate)
  • Round-trip flight ticket or travel proof
  • Employment contract for work visa / invitation letter for private visit
  • Medical certificate (sometimes required for work visas)
• Pay processing fees (varies by visa type).
• Processing time: generally 2 to 4 weeks for standard visas, up to 1 month maximum for complete applications. E-visa, when available, can be issued within days.

Required Documents for Work Visa

• Valid passport
• Employment contract signed by Tunisian employer
• Invitation letter or employment certificate
• ID photos
• Medical certificate if required
• Proof of accommodation
• Visa fee payment

Housing Options for Expatriates

Housing Type	Description	Monthly Cost (approx.)*	Recommended Neighborhoods
Apartment	Furnished or unfurnished, studio to 4-bedroom	600–1,500 TND	La Marsa, Carthage, Gammarth, Les Berges du Lac (Tunis)
House/Villa	Often with garden, spacious	1,200–3,000 TND+	La Soukra, Ariana, Sidi Bou Saïd
Shared Housing	Room in shared apartment	400–700 TND	City center, El Menzah, Mutuelleville

*Prices vary by size, location, property condition, and season.

• Rental typically requires security deposit (one to two months’ rent) and advance rent payment.
• Neighborhoods favored by expatriates offer secure environment, international schools, and modern amenities.

Important Local Legislation for Expatriates

• Labor Law:
  • Employment contract mandatory for salaried activity.
  • Employer must justify hiring a foreigner by absence of equivalent local skills.
  • Work permit issued by Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training.
  • Working hours: 40 to 48 hours/week depending on sector.
• Tax Regulations:
  • Tax residents in Tunisia are taxed on worldwide income.
  • Mandatory annual income declaration.
  • Progressive income tax rates (from 0 to 35% based on income level).
  • France-Tunisia tax convention to avoid double taxation.
• Legal Residence Requirements:
  • Residence card to be requested from foreign police, renewable annually.
  • Address declaration to local authorities.
  • Health insurance recommended (private or National Health Insurance Fund for employees).

Practical Tips

• Prefer rental through recognized real estate agencies to avoid disputes.
• Open Tunisian bank account to facilitate local expense management.
• Register with your country’s consulate once settled.
• Respect residence permit renewal requirements to avoid irregular status.

Since January 1, 2025, a passport valid for at least 3 months after entry is mandatory for all visitors. Stays under 3 months do not require visas for French nationals and several other nationalities.