U.S. citizens visit Tunisia without a visa for tourism, which makes the consular visa work here mostly a matter for third-country nationals resident in the United States and for longer stays. In the other direction, Tunisians need visas for most destinations, which is why the passport and the consular card matter so much.
Quick facts
Visitors staying beyond the permitted period apply for a residence card with the authorities in Tunisia, usually through the local police district, rather than at a counter here.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Consular visa | Published tariff | By nationality and category |
| Residence card | Charged in Tunisia | After arrival |
| Work authorisation | Charged in Tunisia | Through the employer |
| Overstay penalty | Charged on departure | Calculated by period |
| Return envelope | Paid in advance | Express Mail |
Overstaying is charged on the way out and is assessed by how long you exceeded the permitted stay, so track your entry stamp rather than relying on memory.
How to apply
- Check whether your nationality needs a visa for Tunisia at all.
- Identify the category and gather the documents it requires.
- Include proof of your lawful residence in the United States.
- Pay by money order naming both parties, as the embassy requires throughout.
- Enclose a prepaid Express Mail return envelope.
- Apply for a residence card in Tunisia if you plan to stay on.
Required documents
- Passport valid beyond the intended stay.
- Completed application and photographs.
- Proof of lawful residence in the United States for third-country nationals.
- Accommodation details and return ticket.
- Evidence of funds where requested.
- Employer or institution letters by category.
Where to apply
At the embassy in Washington or the consulate general in New York.
Additional notes
Tunisians need no visa
Citizens travel on a Tunisian passport, and dual nationals are expected to enter and leave Tunisia on it. See the citizenship page.
Students and business owners
The embassy asks students for an enrolment letter, the immigration form and a copy of the student visa, and business owners for a business licence. Those are the documents that prove your status here.
Currency rules
The Tunisian dinar cannot be taken in or out of the country, and there are declaration rules on arrival. Keep the paperwork for departure.
Verify close to travel
The embassy’s own pages are the authority on fees and requirements.