Visa and Documents for Tunisia: Entry Requirements for Visitors

Dec 9, 2010
Fleur Hupston

Visa and Entry Requirements Tunisia - Photo by Waterson

Tunisia is a large and well-known African country with a lot of historical interest. Find out what visas and travel permits are necessary for tourists.

Visiting Tunisia is not complicated and there is a lot of tourism from Western Europe to visit the Tunisian historical sites. A visit here is considered to be a highlight of travel to Africa, with many people returning time and again to explore its hidden treasures.

Expect to enjoy golden sandy beaches, non-stop sunshine, startling historical and a really different culture. Landscapes include sand dune peaks in the Sahara desert and Mediterranean seascapes along the quiet beaches in northern Tunisia. Houses and markets in Jerba and Houmt Souq conceal a multitude of ethinic groups.

Entry and Visa Requirements Tunisia

All passports must be valid for at least six months. The following visa and entry requirements apply:

Americans nationals may enter Tunisia for a maximum of 4 months without a visa,
UK, EEC passport holders and Canadian nationals may stay for 3 months without a visa.
South African, Australian and New Zealand nationals need to have a visa, which can be obtained on arrival and is valid for one month, at a cost of 3 Tunisian Dinar.

Touring Tunisia – Permits and Travel Requirements

If travelling to the southern regions of Tunisia, tourists are requested to obtain permission from Tunisian authorities to enter certain areas, especially close to Algeria and the southern military zones. The threat of kidnap cannot be ruled out in these areas and it is advised to follow closely the advice from the Tunisian authorities in these regions.

Authorities must be informed if foreigners travel overland through the Sahara. A copy of the itinerary, including the point of departure, must be given to the National Guard Post at Médenine. Such travel should be a group undertaking, with members of the group accompanied by an experienced tour guide, a car equipped with features such as a GPS (global positioning system) and adequate supplies. Due to the intense heat, travel in the Sahara during the months of July and August is not recommended.

Tunisian Currency Regulations – Entry and Exit

Tunisian currency regulations require that tourists declare any large amounts of money being brought into the country. On exiting Tunisia, visitors are required to declare amounts of money in excess of 500 Euros upon exit. Visitors are prohibited from taking Tunisian Dinars out of the country.

Tunisia is one of Africa's easiest destinations, with relatively easy entry requirements. Following a few basic rules and respecting the local customs will ensure a peaceful stay in a country with much to offer.