How to Get Residency in Tunisia

Tunisia is a North African country with great coastal beauty, a warm Mediterranean climate, and a peaceful society. It's a country rich in archeological heritage with the renowned ruins of Carthage, as well as ancient Roman cities and beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean Sea. With political stability since the early 2010s, convenient flights to Europe and high affordability it is a great destination for digital nomad expats, European retirees, and investors. As the cost of living rises in the EU and many healthy Francophone retirees look for options to stretch their pensions, Tunisia may be an option for several years of retirement.

That being said, know that real estate around Tunis is not exactly cheap, by North African standards. You also need to know the requirements for traveling to and staying in Tunisia before you go. French and other EU Schengen Zone tourists for example, as of January 1, 2025 will have to show their passports rather than travel with a national ID like a driver's license:

Photo credit above: Tunisia Flag on Old Waterfront Town Background, Mahdia, Tunisia

Uploaded to Pexels by Amine Mayoufi Photo taken May 18, 2021

Links:

TunisianEmbassy.org (Tunisian Embassy USA)

Consular.website/welcome (Tunisian Embassy UK)

Tunisian Embassy of France (Facebook page -- see announcement below)

From January 1, 2025, European tourists will no longer be able to travel to Tunisia with their national identity card, and will have to present a passport valid for at least three months to visit the country.

As of January 1, 2025, Tunisia will require all foreigners entering the country to present a passport valid for more than three months.

This new regulation, confirmed by the Tunisian Embassy in France and French diplomacy, marks a significant change in entry procedures for international travelers, particularly for nationals of certain countries who were previously able to use their national identity card (CNI) to enter the country.

Photo credit above: Tunisia on map of North Africa and the Mediterranean Sea

Uploaded to iStock by gt29 January 2024 iStock photo ID: 1955607099

See also: Obtaining Residency (Carte de Séjour) in Morocco: The Basics for UK/EU Retirees and Global Digital Nomads and In Late 2024 Morocco Joined the MENA Digital Asset Trend, Announcing It Plans to Legalize Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies.

If you plan to stay in Tunisia long-term, understanding the residency process is key. This guide explains the basic steps and requirements for obtaining residency in Tunisia.

Photo credit above: This view is one of the most best-known tourist attractions in Tunisia, near the famous Café des Délices in Sidi Bou Said, 20 kilometers north of Tunis.

Uploaded to iStock by bymuratdeniz May 2023 iStock photo ID: 1493402574

Types of Residency Permits in Tunisia

Tunisia offers two main types of residency permits:

Temporary Residency Permit: Typically valid for one year and renewable, this permit is issued for purposes such as work, study, or family reunification.

Permanent Residency Permit: Reserved for individuals who have resided in Tunisia for a long period (usually five years or more) or meet specific criteria, such as being married to a Tunisian citizen.

Ruins of (Roman) Carthage a video still snapshot from Very Nice Travel YouTube channel

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining Residency in Tunisia

1. Entry Visa

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Tunisia. Common visa types include:

Work Visa (for employment in Tunisia)

Student Visa (for educational purposes)

Family Visa (for joining a Tunisian spouse or relative)

Check with the Tunisian consulate or embassy in your country to confirm visa requirements and application procedures. Ensure that you apply for the visa that matches the purpose of your stay, as this will directly impact your residency application.

2. Apply for a Residency Permit

Within 60 days of your arrival in Tunisia, you must apply for a residency permit at the General Directorate of National Security or a police station in your area. Prepare the following documents:

A completed residency application form

Your passport and copies of all pages

A copy of your visa and entry stamp

Passport-sized photos (usually 4-6)

Proof of residence in Tunisia (e.g., rental agreement or property ownership documents)

Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, employment contract, or pension statements)

Health insurance coverage valid in Tunisia

3. Background Check

Applicants are required to provide a criminal record certificate from their home country, as well as a police clearance certificate from Tunisia. These documents ensure that you have no criminal history that might hinder your residency approval.

4. Additional Documents Based on Residency Type

For Work Residency: A work permit and contract approved by the Ministry of Employment.

For Student Residency: Proof of enrollment in a Tunisian educational institution.

For Family Residency: A marriage certificate (if joining a Tunisian spouse) or proof of relationship (if joining family).

5. Submit Your Application

Once your application and supporting documents are complete, submit them to the appropriate authority. Processing times vary, but temporary residency permits are generally issued within a few weeks. Be prepared to attend an interview or provide additional information if requested.

6. Receive Your Residency Card

Upon approval, you will be issued a residency card, which you must renew annually. This card serves as your primary identification document while in Tunisia. It is also essential for accessing certain services, such as opening a bank account or signing long-term rental agreements.

Photo credit above: Photo of Man Standing in El Jem Amphitheatre, Mahdia, Tunisia

Uploaded to Pexels by Sergio Gomez Photo taken November 23, 2019

Transition to Permanent Residency

After residing in Tunisia for five consecutive years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. This process requires additional documentation, including proof of long-term residence and integration into Tunisian society. Permanent residency offers benefits such as fewer renewal requirements and greater flexibility in employment opportunities.

Photo credit above: Sunset along the Avenue Habib Bourguiba Clocktower in downtown Tunis, the famous landmark of Tunisia, with the people walking by on promenade.

Uploaded to iStock by Artaxerxes Longhand May 2024 iStock photo ID: 2152617454

Keep in mind the following factors, such as language, legal compliance, and health insurance.

Language: Most official documents and procedures are conducted in Arabic or French. Having a translator or lawyer can be helpful if you are unfamiliar with these languages.

Legal Compliance: Ensure you follow all local laws and regulations, including reporting any changes in your status or address to the relevant authorities.

Health Insurance: While applying for residency, ensure you have adequate health coverage. Tunisia has a robust healthcare system, but proof of insurance is often required for permit approvals.