Tunisia

The Land of History
and Desert Splendor

Flag of Tunesia

Tunisia, a country in North Africa, is renowned for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. Home to iconic landmarks like the ancient city of Carthage, the medina of Tunis, and the Sahara Desert, Tunisia offers a unique blend of historical sites and natural beauty. The country's geography ranges from Mediterranean coastlines to arid deserts, with a climate that varies from temperate to hot.

Tunisian culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean influences, reflected in its art, music, and cuisine featuring dishes like couscous and harissa. Known for its warm hospitality, as the birthplace of the Arab Spring, and as a hub for ancient Roman and Islamic architecture, Tunisia presents a captivating destination that combines ancient traditions with modern dynamism.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Tunisia.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in Tunisia.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from countries like the EU, US, Canada, and Australia can enter Tunisia with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations outside the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Tunisia.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless specified by Tunisia’s visa policy.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless specified.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless specified.

ID Card Entry
The following citizens can enter Tunisia using only a valid national ID card:

  • None (Tunisia does not currently allow entry with national ID cards; a passport is required for all foreign nationals).

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://www.tourism.tn/covid-19/.
Toll

Driving in Tunisia

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, the main toll road in Tunisia is:

  • A1 Highway (Autoroute Tunis-Sfax): Connecting Tunis to Sfax, including the Grombalia Tunnel.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Tunisian Road Authority website: https://www.anc.tn/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Tunisian Dinar (TND) is accepted at all toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll booths.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is being implemented. Check https://www.e-tawil.tn/ for updates.

Driving in Tunisia

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 90 km/h
    • Highways: 110 km/h
  • Road conditions: Vary; exercise caution, especially on rural or desert roads, which may be affected by sandstorms or poor maintenance.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Recommended alongside your national driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Tunisia is considering implementing a vignette system for road use. Check https://www.anc.tn/ for the latest information.
  • Road Safety: Remain vigilant, especially at night or in rural areas, due to poor lighting, reckless driving, and potential roadblocks or protests.
  • GPS and Maps: While GPS is generally reliable, keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Tunisia Currency

Official Currency
The official currency of Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50 Dinar
  • Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 Millimes (subunits of Dinar)
  • Symbol: DT

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels, but the Tunisian Dinar is non-convertible outside Tunisia.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct Dinar withdrawals, but international cards may face restrictions.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas, due to limited card acceptance.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments, but acceptance can be unreliable outside urban areas.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas, as cards are not widely accepted.
  • Check for currency conversion fees and potential restrictions when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Tunisia website: https://www.bct.gov.tn/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Tunisia

Tunisia is generally safe for travelers, with moderate crime rates and a reputation for hospitality, but understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Tunisia, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics, especially those related to the post-2011 revolution or secular-Islamic tensions, insensitively.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal but not widely accepted; public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention or legal issues.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings, or critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Pornographic materials (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., along the Mediterranean coast) must allow free access within designated zones. Wheelchair access is legally mandated.

Key Resources

Tunisia Travel Safety

Tunisia is generally safe for travelers, with low to moderate crime rates and a reputation for hospitality, but travelers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols due to occasional political unrest. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Tunisia.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like Tunis’s medina or public transport. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon but can occur, especially in border areas or during protests.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Tunisia is considered safe, with locals often helpful. Avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious in border regions near Algeria and Libya.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to narrow roads, poor rural conditions, and reckless drivers.
    • Avoid night driving in rural or border areas due to poor lighting and security risks.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety: Avoid tap water; drink bottled water. Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations: Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and typhoid (for long-term stays).
  • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against mosquitoes (risk of malaria in rural areas) and ticks (risk of other diseases).
  • Altitude Sickness: No significant risk in Tunisia (low elevation).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Clinique El Manar in Tunis offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as limited facilities in rural areas may require air ambulance transport to Europe.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 190 | Fire: 198 | Police: 197.
  • Tourist Police (Tunis): +216 71 341 777.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/desert areas. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Kroumirie Mountains).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious issues.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Tunis; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Tunisia

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