How to Enter Tunisia
Do I need a passport or visa to enter?
A passport is required. For U.S. passport holders, a visa is not necessary for stays of up to three months; however, a residence permit is needed for longer stays. The residence permit can be obtained from the central police station of the district of residence. U.S. citizens born in the Middle East or with Arabic names have experienced delays in clearing immigration upon arrival. U.S. citizens of Tunisian origin are expected to enter and exit Tunisia on their Tunisian passports. If a Tunisian-American succeeds in entering using a U.S. passport, he or she will still have to present a Tunisian passport to exit the country.Visit the Embassy of Tunisia website or call the Embassy of Tunisia in Washington, D.C. at 202-862-1850 for the most current visa information. Tunisian-American children under the age of 20 (the age of majority in Tunisia) whose father is a Tunisian citizen must have their father’s permission to exit the country. This is required even if the child is travelling on a U.S. passport.
Special Travel Circumstances in Tunisia
Money: Credit cards are accepted at some establishments in Tunisia, mainly in urban or tourist areas. Traveler’s Checks are not widely accepted for payment, even at large tourist hotels, and may only be cashed at a bank where the check holder has an account. Cash machines (ATMs) are available in urban and tourist areas. The Tunisian dinar is not a fully convertible currency. While the export or import of Tunisian banknotes and coins is prohibited, the export of foreign currency declared when entering Tunisia is allowed. Tourists are expected to make foreign exchange transactions at authorized banks and to retain receipts. A tourist may reconvert to foreign currency 30 percent of the amount previously exchanged into dinars, up to a maximum of $100. Declaring foreign currency when entering Tunisia and obtaining receipts for dinars purchased thereafter will facilitate th e conversion of dinars to U.S. dollars when leaving the country. Please keep all receipts of monetary transactions for presentation when departing.
Workweek: Normal working days are Monday to Friday. Many stores are closed on Sunday, except in resort areas where most remain open.
Proselytizing: Islam is the state religion of Tunisia and the government does not interfere with the country's religious minorities’ public worship. Many religious denominations hold regularly scheduled services. However, it is illegal to proselytize or engage in other activities that the Tunisian authorities could view as encouraging conversion to another faith. In the past, U.S. citizens who engaged in such activities were asked to leave the country.
Disclaimer
You are responsible for ensuring that you meet and comply with foreign entry requirements, health requirements and that you possess the appropriate travel documents. Information provided is subject to change without notice. One should confirm content prior to traveling from other reliable sources. Information published on this website may contain errors. You travel at your own risk and no warranties or guarantees are provided by us.