Tunisia |
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| Still current at: 02 March 2013
Updated: 20 February 2013 |
| No restrictions in this travel advice | Avoid all but essential travel to part(s) of country | Avoid all but essential travel to whole country | Avoid all travel to part(s) of country | Avoid all travel to whole country |
This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Travel Summary (resignation of Tunisian PM). The overall level of the advice has not changed; there are no travel restrictions in this Travel Advice for Tunisia.
(see travel advice legal disclaimer)
Travel advice for this country
- Travel Summary
- Safety and security
- Local laws and customs
- Entry requirements
- Health
- General
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While most visits to Tunisia are trouble-free, all travellers
should be aware of the political and security situation. A state of
emergency is still in force and curfews or other temporary movement
restrictions may be imposed or changed with little or no notice.
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Prime Minister Hammadi Jebali announced his resignation from
Government on 19 February. Political negotiations are now in progress.
There remains the possibility of more protests and strike action while
uncertainty about who is governing the country remains.
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The assassination of a political leader of one of the opposition
parties on 6 February caused large, violent public protests throughout
the country with many calling on the Government to stand down.
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Travellers should be aware that religious and social tensions
have also sparked protest and violence. In June 2012 religious groups
clashed violently with the police in several areas of Greater Tunis,
Sousse, Monastir, Jendouba and Ben Geurdane. And in September 2012 a
small hotel in the town of Sidi Bouzeid was attacked for selling
alcohol.
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There is also the possibility that international news events
will trigger anti-Western demonstrations. Violent protests took place in
front of the US Embassy in Tunis on 14 September 2012 resulting in
several deaths, multiple injuries and significant damage to the US
Embassy and nearby American school. And on 4 February 2013 violent
threats were made in graffiti form against a French school in Tunis.
There is a possibility that Western Embassies or other institutions may
become the focal point for demonstrations.
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We strongly recommend that British nationals avoid all forms of
demonstration. While many protests pass without incident there is the
possibility of injury if you are caught up in a demonstration that does
not remain peaceful. If you become aware of any nearby violence you
should leave the area immediately and keep yourself informed of
developments by checking the news, observing the instructions given by
the security authorities and/or your tour operator and regularly check
this advice. You should carry a copy of your passport, or other form of
photo ID, at all times as proof of nationality and identity.
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There is a general threat from terrorism in Tunisia. This threat
is increased due to a threat of retaliatory attacks following the
French intervention in Mali. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be
indiscriminate, including in places frequented by British expatriates
and foreign travellers. We advise vigilance. See Safety and Security - Terrorism Section.
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The border with Libya is technically open but the security
situation in the area remains tense and the border crossing points are
occasionally closed temporarily (sometimes for days) without notice. We
are told that the border will be closed on 14 to 18 February. There are
regular clashes between groups of informal economy traders and black
market traders and the authorities in towns close to the border. Some of
these clashes include the use of weapons. (There were reports of shots
being fired on 7 January). There is a risk of injury if you are near or
caught up in one of these events.
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218,347 British nationals visited Tunisia from 1 January - 30
November 2011 (Source: Tunisian National Tourist Office). Most visits
are trouble free. See General - Consular Assistance Statistics. The majority of consular cases occur in Hammamet and Sousse.
- You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General - Insurance.
Political situation
Tunisia has experienced unprecedented political and social change
since the events of the “Jasmine Revolution” in January 2011. The first
democratic elections were held on 23 October 2011 and a new coalition
government led by the Ennahda Party was sworn in on 24 December 2011.On
19 February Prime Minister Hammadi Jebali announced his resignation from
Government.The assassination of an opposition politician on 6 February prompted widespread unrest across Tunisia and calls for the coalition government to step down. Political negotiations are now in progress and there is the potential for further unrest.
Economically motivated protests remain common and are most prevalent in the mining area in the south west of Tunisia and around large industrial sites but these protests, and demonstrations sparked by religious tensions can happen at any time and in any location across Tunisia. Some demonstrations have affected key public services, such as police and customs, which can cause serious disruption. The majority of protests are peaceful but there are still occasional incidents of violence and damage to property. There have also been a number of demonstrations on major roads, designed to cause traffic delays and disruption. Although protests are not normally aimed at foreigners, and British nationals are unlikely to be targeted, there is a possibility that international events could trigger an anti western protest.
We recommend that you remain alert to local security developments, avoid all forms of protest and observe instructions given by security authorities, your tour operator or hotel. A State of Emergency remains in place and the authorities may restrict travel or movements with little or no notice.
Government security forces, including the police, army and National Guard are present throughout Tunisia and you may encounter increased security near strategic sites, such as the Presidential palace, main government and military buildings and police stations. You should carry a form of photo ID at all times (such as a copy of your passport) and be prepared to show this to uniformed security officials if asked to do so.
Border areas
The borders with Libya and Algeria are open but security around the border, with Libya, remains tense and border crossing points are occasionally temporarily closed (for hours or days) or restricted without notice. There have been reports of clashes between rival groups of black market traders in towns near to the border crossing into Libya at Ras Jedir and Dhehiba. Some of these clashes involve weapons including the use of live rounds. There were reports of shots being fired in Ben Guerdane resulting in several injuries on 7 January 2013. We strongly advise those who need to cross the border into Libya to check with local authorities before travelling to the border and to consult the FCO travel advice for Libya.
Terrorism
There is a general threat from terrorism in Tunisia. This threat is increased due to a threat of retaliatory attacks following the French intervention in Mali. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by British expatriates and foreign travellers. We advise vigilance.
In the past 12 months a number of suspected terrorists and arms dealers have been arrested in various regions of the country indicating that some extremist elements may be present and could pose a general threat to the security of foreigners.
See our Terrorism Abroad page.
There is a risk of kidnap in Tunisia from terrorists operating in the area of the southern Tunisia/Algeria border, and we advise caution when travelling in such areas. Tourists must seek permission from the Tunisian authorities to enter certain desert areas bordering Algeria and the southern military zones and must travel with licensed guides and/or military escorts. Such trips should be undertaken with a reputable tour company. On 22 February 2008, two Austrian tourists were kidnapped in a military zone in the south of Tunisia, close to the border with Algeria. The tourists were released in October 2008.
Be aware that the long standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.
Crime
Incidents of mugging, pick pocketing, bag-snatching and petty theft are on the increase and you are advised to ensure that bags are kept close to your person at all times. Where possible, avoid carrying all your important documents, money and other valuables in the same bag. Take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings - as you would do in the UK. You should remain vigilant and alert to potential confidence tricks.
There have also been some reports of fringe groups seeking to impose their interpretation of Islamic dress/ behaviour upon others through violence against individuals. While the primary target of these groups has been Tunisian women and businesses serving and selling alcohol (outside of the main tourist areas) this behaviour could affect foreigners. While attacks in tourist areas have been rare visitors should be aware of the potential for such acts in on beaches and in restaurants and cafes especially during religious holidays. Attacks of this nature are illegal and the Tunisian government has stated that it will seek to prevent any such violence.
See our Victims of Crime Abroad page.
Local travel
Because of the unpredictability of social tensions and demonstrations, including unofficial roadblocks and an increase in the levels of crime, if you wish to visit sights in the interior it is recommended that you do so with an approved local guide or reputable tour operator. Please also note that tourists wanting to visit the southern border areas have to obtain permission from the Tunisian authorities to enter certain desert areas on the borders with Algeria and the southern military zones and must travel with licensed guides and/or military escorts – you should seek advice from a reputable agent. See our Travel Advice: Algeria.
Road travel
Driving in Tunisia is more erratic than in Europe. There is very little lane discipline; often confusion about the right of way (especially at roundabouts), few pedestrian crossings and sometimes traffic lights are ignored. Care needs to be taken when driving in urban areas as pedestrians tend to walk on the roads and have the right of way. Take particular care when crossing roads, even where there is a signal allowing you to do so.
You may encounter military or police security checks. If you do, approach slowly, do not cross boundaries without permission and be prepared to present photo ID if requested.
Roads are of a reasonable standard although large pot-holes can appear quickly following heavy rain. There are three motorways in Tunisia, running from Tunis to Bizerte in the north, to Sousse on the coast and west to Beja.
See our Driving Abroad page.
Air travel
The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community. Check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.
See Airline Security.
Rail travel
Rail travel is generally considered safe but make sure that you remain vigilant against petty criminals at all times.
Local laws reflect the fact that Tunisia is an Islamic country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas.
See our Travelling During Ramadan page.
In the coastal holiday resorts the dress code is very much like any European city or tourist area. If visiting the main cities, religious sites or more remote areas of Tunisia, dress more modestly and avoid any articles of clothing which may cause offence. Topless sunbathing on beaches may cause offence.
Possession, use and trafficking of controlled drugs are all serious criminal offences in Tunisia. The possession of even a small amount of 'soft' drugs could result in a prison term.
If you have any concerns about taking medication with you to Tunisia, contact the Tunisian Embassy in London, for further information. Additionally in the case of prescription medication, we recommend that you carry a note from your GP confirming that the medication has been prescribed for an existing condition.
Be aware that it is not permitted to remove antiquities from Tunisia without first obtaining permission from Customs authorities. Failure to do so could result in lengthy delays on departure, fines and/or imprisonment.
Homosexuality is a criminal offence in Tunisia and sexual relations outside of marriage are also punishable by law.
Avoid taking any photographs near sensitive political or military sites.
Tunisian family law is very different from UK law and particular caution is needed when, for example, child custody becomes an issue.
See our Your Trip page.
Visas
British passport holders do not require visas for a stay of three months or less. On arrival, security checks are sometimes run on British passport holders who are not UK-born. This can take a few hours and such visitors are advised to be patient until clearance is given. There is unlikely to be a similar checking process or delay on departure.
Passport validity
You must hold a valid passport to enter Tunisia. Your passport must be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Tunisia.
Yellow fever
Yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.Currency declarations
Tunisian regulations require you to declare on entry any large amounts of money being brought in. You will also be asked to declare if you expect to have more than £500 on you when you leave. The export of Tunisian dinars is expressly prohibited. You could be required to show the currency declaration on departure.
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs)
Tunisian authorities accept ETDs for entry to and exit from Tunisia. Those leaving Tunisia on an ETD should be sure to have a copy of the police report about the loss/theft of their full validity passport for presentation to the Immigration Officer.
Travelling with children
For information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Embassy of Tunisia in London.
Dual nationals
Dual nationals should enter and leave Tunisia on their Tunisian passports.
Contact your GP around eight weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Country specific information and advice is published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre, and useful information about healthcare abroad, including a country-by-country guide of reciprocal health care agreements with the UK, is available from NHS Choices.
There is no provision for free medical attention for non-Tunisians. All doctors' fees, medication and hospitalisation in private (as opposed to state run) clinics have to be paid for on the spot. These costs can be quite high. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 190 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Our Travel Health pages offer further advice on how to stay healthy when overseas.
Insurance
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. Check for any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. See our Travel Insurance page.
If things do go wrong when you are overseas see When Things Go Wrong.
Consular registration
Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.
Replacing a lost or stolen passport
The Consular Section at the British Embassy in Tunisia offers a full passport issuing service. If you lose your passport while on holiday, immediately report the loss first to the nearest police station, and then to the Consular Section, who will advise on the arrangements for a replacement passport to be issued.
Carry a copy of your passport for identity and leave the passport itself in a safe place such as a deposit box at your hotel.
Purchasing property
There have been numerous instances where British nationals wishing to buy property in Tunisia have been advised to do so through a Tunisian "friend" on the pretence that it is illegal for foreign nationals to purchase property in Tunisia. If you are considering purchasing property in Tunisia, immediately consult a local lawyer who will be best placed to offer advice. Do not make private arrangements, which in themselves may be illegal and may result in large financial loss.
Money
ATMs are widely available in Tunisia though they do not always work. Almost all ATMs will accept Visa cards, and many (most notably Bank of Tunisia and BIAT) will also accept Maestro (Switch) cards for cash withdrawals. Visa and Mastercard are widely acceptable for payment in shops, restaurants and hotels although there are frequent problems in obtaining authorisation for Mastercard purchases.
Consular assistance statistics
Forty-five British nationals required consular assistance in Tunisia in the period 01 April 2011- 31 March 2012, including for 17 deaths, twelve hospitalisations and three arrests.
