Traveler Toolkit
Tunisia Country Security Report
Tunisia Country Security Report
Last Updated: May 28, 2026
Embassy Contact Information
Les Berges du Lac, 1053 Tunis
Phone: +216 71 107 000
OSAC Country Chapters
The Tunis Country Chapter is currently active. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Middle East & North Africa team with any questions.
Travel Advisory
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should exercise increased caution in Tunisia due to terrorism.
Do not travel to:
- Within 16 km of the Algerian border due to terrorism, except for the cities of Tabarka and Ain Draham.
- Within 16 km of the border with Libya due to terrorism.
- The Mount Chaambi National Park, Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila in Kasserine governorate due to terrorism.
- The Mount Orbata area in the Gafsa governorate due to terrorism.
- The desert south of Remada due to the military zone.
Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.
Crime Environment
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Tunis as being a HIGH-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Tunisia.
Police emergency line: 197.
Review the U.S. Department of State’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.
Crime: General Threat
Most reported criminal incidents against foreigners are crimes of opportunity (e.g., pickpocketing, purse/phone/jewelry snatching, petty theft). The selection of foreigners as targets tends to focus on those who appear unfamiliar with their surroundings or who dress expensively, wear Western-style clothing, or draw attention to themselves by not speaking the local language. There have been cases of young men on motor scooters targeting expatriates, attempting to snatch valuables during both day and night. Snatch-and-grab tactics include speeding by an unsuspecting pedestrian on a scooter and grabbing a dangling purse or cell phone.
Reliable crime statistics are difficult to obtain, but violent crimes involving the use of firearms (e.g., assault, homicide, armed robbery) are rare. Armed robberies are not common and typically involve a knife rather than a gun. Violent and nonviolent crimes (e.g., robbery, residential break-in, financial scams, vehicle theft, petty drug offenses) occur in Tunis and other large/tourist cities. Incidents of assault, vehicle theft, and vehicle break-in have occurred against both Tunisians and foreigners. There is no evidence American citizens are being targeted, other than for perceived affluence. Residents in affluent neighborhoods make attractive targets for those seeking crimes of opportunity. Perpetrators continue to choose targets that offer a high reward with minimal effort. Incidents of sexual assault and harassment occur throughout Tunisia and have been reported with increasing frequency within the expatriate community.
If an assailant displaying a bladed weapon or threatening violence confronts you, attempt to de-escalate the situation by immediately turning over your valuables. Be aware of distraction techniques (e.g., a staged fight or an intentional bump). Be wary of unsolicited offers of assistance, and refuse offers that sound too good to be true. Travel in groups, especially in remote areas and during nighttime hours.
Tunisia is largely a cash-based economy. Credit cards are gaining acceptance at establishments in larger tourist cities, and there are ATMs in many places in the capital. Vendors may require additional identification, such as a passport, for use of a credit card. ATMs are commonplace in cities and towns, on the street, in retail outlets, and at some gas stations There have been muggings at ATMs. Protect your PIN. Try to use an ATM attached to a bank branch. Even though the Embassy has not seen a high level of credit card fraud among U.S. citizens, authorities report numerous financial scams.
It is common for individuals to ring doorbells at private residences to ask for alms, offer gardening/housekeeping services, or request money for medicine/cab fare/assistance/food.
Use/possession of illegal drugs, and drug trafficking are serious offenses. Individuals arrested for drug-related crimes, including possession of a small amount of marijuana, can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Crime: Areas of Concern
High traffic tourist areas (e.g., public beaches, medinas, central market areas): Use extra caution in these areas.
Soccer matches: Violence is often associated with soccer matches, to include vandalism and physical assaults of police, security forces, and rival fans.
Tunis: The area of West Le Kram in Tunis is particularly well-known for theft.
Residential Burglaries: Residential burglaries occurred in areas of Tunis popular with expatriates. Most residential burglaries occur at night or in the early morning when people are at home sleeping and happen in expatriate and Tunisian neighborhoods alike. Burglaries also occur during the day, when there are obvious signs that no one is home; or if a residence appears unoccupied.
Most burglars are young males (ages 17-25) looking for small, expensive items they can convert to cash easily. Although burglaries may seem like a random occurrence, they involve a selection process. Burglars are likely to choose an unoccupied home with the easiest access, the greatest amount of cover, and the best escape routes. If you give a key to domestic staff, consider using secondary locks. Discourage children from answering the door/gate, and do not open the door/gate until you have identified the visitor. Avoid leaving bicycles and items of value unsecured in the yard or garden. Instruct domestic staff and dependents to do the same, and to report any unusual activity. Inspect your home periodically to identify vulnerabilities or inoperative security features. The U.S. Government provides well-secured residences for its employees.
Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, Taking Credit, and Our Two Cents: Petty Crime Basics and How to Minimize the Risk.
Kidnapping Threat
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Tunisia. Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.
A general threat of kidnapping exists, not only directed at Westerners, but also against Tunisian nationals. Practice good personal security awareness and stay alert to local events and security developments within the country.
Terrorism
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Tunis as being a MEDIUM-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Tunisia, indicating that terrorist attacks have occurred and/or specific threats against civilians, groups, or other targets may exist. Review the latest U.S. Department of State Country Report on Terrorism for Tunisia.
A state of emergency put in place after a 2015 terrorist attack in Tunis continues with an unknown expiration date. The Tunisian government expanded its counterterrorism efforts in 2016, particularly after several high-profile terrorist attacks. The most recent terrorist attack took place in May 2023 when a national guardsman killed six people and injured at least eight others near the Ghirba Synagogue on the Tunisian island of Djerba.
Terror threats from established terrorist organizations still exist in certain areas along borders with Libya and Algeria, including but not limited to Kasserine, El Kef, Jendouba, Sidi Bouzid, and Gafsa. Police and military operations are effectively disrupting terrorist cells. The capacity of al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and ISIS-affiliated terror groups is greatly diminished but still consider additional security measures and mitigations when traveling to these areas.
As is the case worldwide, threats from lone actors and isolated groups inspired online are the most likely and most difficult threats to mitigate in Tunisia. Employ personal protective measures to avoid becoming a target of opportunity for these groups.
Political Violence and Civil Unrest Environment
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Tunis as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Tunisia. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.
Elections/Political Stability
Despite calls by major political parties to boycott the October 2024 election, Tunisia’s President Kais Saied secured his second term. The president is directly elected for a five-year term and may only be reelected once.
The 2024 election marked the third presidential election since President Ben Ali was overthrown in 2011 following widespread protests. Tunisia’s 2022 constitution instituted a bicameral legislature with a lower house, called the Assembly of the People’s Representatives, and an upper chamber, called the National Assembly of Regions and Districts. Members of the legislature are elected by regional and district councils; the length of their terms is not constitutionally specified.
Protest & Demonstration Activity
In late 2025, thousands of Tunisians demonstrated against what they call President Kais Saied’s escalating authoritarianism and the jailing of government critics. Common protest locations in Tunis include government buildings, diplomatic facilities, and along Bourguiba Avenue.
Numerous protests and demonstrations take place annually throughout Tunisia. A permit is required, and normally the police are measured in their response and seldom overreact. Police will use non-lethal force to disperse crowds demonstrating without authorization or who become violent.
Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.
Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
Under normal circumstances, the relationship between the United States and the Tunisian government is strong and very positive. Similarly, the Tunisian population generally holds a positive impression of the United States.
Law Enforcement
The Ministry of Interior is responsible for law enforcement. The ministry oversees the National Police, which has primary responsibility for law enforcement in the major cities, and the National Guard, which oversees border security and patrols smaller towns and rural areas. Civilian authorities maintain effective control over the security forces. Military courts, with civilian judges nominated by the president and approved by the Military Judicial Council, have authority to try cases involving only military personnel and civilians accused of national security crimes or crimes involving members of the security or armed forces, including “insulting” the armed forces or the president (given his role as commander-in-chief).
Police Response
Tunisia’s police and military forces have increased their effectiveness in recent years. Tunisian police are capable and professional with varying levels of capacity, including some highly skilled specialized units with the ability to respond to crises and critical incidents. Many senior police officials have received advanced training in Western Europe or the U.S. In an effort to maintain Tunisia’s image and protect its tourism industry, the police are responsive to visitors in need of assistance. The police presence is particularly high in tourist areas and other areas foreigners frequent.
Police conduct random traffic stops and often set up after-hours checkpoints at roundabouts or on main thoroughfares. Insulting or arguing with police is illegal; police have imprisoned people for doing so.
Report crimes immediately to the nearest police officer/station. Hotel desk clerks, store owners, shopkeepers, and taxi drivers can direct you to a police officer or summon one for you. U.S. citizens should also report criminal incidents to the U.S. Embassy’s Consular Section.
Emergency lines: Police: 197, Fire Department: 198.
Foreign visitors detained by the police should remain cooperative and patient. This will assist in expediting a quick resolution to an arbitrary police stop. U.S. citizens taken into custody should immediately request that the police inform the U.S. Embassy of their whereabouts.
Transportation Security
Road Safety
Road safety poses one of the greatest risks to foreign travelers. Drivers will likely encounter road conditions, driving patterns, traffic laws, and signs different from those with which they are familiar. Local drivers often fail to obey traffic signs/signals, drive on the wrong side of the road, and go against the flow of traffic. Locals use the road shoulders or turning lanes to pass or ignore traffic lane markings altogether. Do not assume that pedestrians are aware of oncoming traffic, or that other vehicles will give them the right of way, even at a designated pedestrian crossing. Bicycles, mopeds, and motorcycles operate without sufficient lights/reflectors, making them difficult to see as they dart in/out of traffic.
Uniformed police officers are located at major intersections in major cities. Police officers may stop drivers for inspection; drivers should comply. Police pay particular attention to rental cars (all rental cars have blue license plates), which they stop frequently.
Police may take drivers involved in a motor accident that results in death or serious injury into protective custody until they determine responsibility. This can mean spending days or months in detention. Drivers involved in traffic accidents not involving injury to an individual must file an accident form; the form, usually issued by the insurance company, is in the glove compartment of rental cars. On the form, both drivers must document driver and vehicle information, and how the accident occurred (each driver may write a statement); each driver must sign the form but should not admit guilt. Drivers involved in accidents may go to the traffic police station if they need help or if there is a disagreement. Return the form to the insurance company within 48 hours. Drivers involved in traffic accidents involving injury to individuals must notify police, and all drivers involved must remain on the scene before the police finish the investigation. A driver who decides to leave the scene due to safety concerns must report to the closest police station.
Refrain from using mobile phones while driving. Keep vehicle windows closed, doors locked and conceal any valuables. Avoid driving after dark outside the greater Tunis area or major resort areas. Many roads lack proper maintenance and lighting, may have unmarked community-installed speed bumps, and unmaintained infrastructure. Even well-traveled routes are subject to blowing sands that can create hazards.
Developments in Libya continue to affect the security situation along the Tunisian-Libyan border in areas such as Ras Jedir and Dehiba along with the cities of Ben Guerdan and Medenine. The border with Libya frequently closes to all traffic with short notice for extended periods.
Travel in desert areas presents additional challenges. Persons driving off the major paved roads should ensure their vehicles are appropriate for off-road driving conditions and have appropriate supplies (e.g., water, food). Travel in caravans of multiple vehicles if possible. Desert regions are subject to extreme temperatures, from sub-freezing evenings in the winter to dangerously hot days in the summer. In addition, many areas in the southern desert regions have little or no cellular telephone service.
The Tunisian National Guard requires those traveling into the desert areas south of Tataouine to register travel plans beforehand and obtain a “desert pass” for access.
Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.
Public Transportation Safety
Public buses: Avoid taking public buses or minibuses (louage). Bus drivers often drive at excessive speeds, have poor safety records, and do not maintain vehicles properly. Buses are usually overcrowded, and women have experienced harassment.
Taxis: The U.S. Embassy allows its U.S. staff on official business to take taxis within the greater Tunis area. Patrons can hail official taxis (yellow cabs) legally from the street or at designated spots in prominent places. Take note of the white and red roof sign with a four-digit serial number. All fares are metered and have a minimum charge. Do not use a taxi that will not use the meter or claims “the meter is not working,” as these drivers will overcharge unsuspecting passengers. Depending on what time and place you catch the taxi, additional charges may apply. Do not enter a taxi that is already carrying passengers, and do not allow your driver to pick up additional passengers. Taxi fares are relatively inexpensive.
Metro/Streetcar: The streetcar system, known as the Metro, consists of five lines between downtown Tunis and nearby suburbs. Petty crime (e.g., pickpocketing, purse/phone/jewelry snatching, sexual harassment of women) is common aboard the Metro. The U.S. Embassy does not authorize its U.S. staff to use the Metro for official business.
Trains: Trains depart from Tunis to many cities (e.g., Sousse, Sfax, Gabes, El Jem), however, there have been several major train accidents over the past several years. Drivers and pedestrians must pay close attention at railroad crossings because most crossing signals are either absent or not working properly.
Aviation Concerns
Tunisia has relatively well-developed transportation infrastructure that includes eight international airports. Tunisia’s principal airport gateway is Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN), situated eight kilometers from the center of Tunis, the capital. Other international airports are Monastir-Habib Bourguiba (MIR), Djerba-Zarzis (DJE), Tozeur-Nefta (TOE), Sfax-Thyna (SFA), Tabarka (TBJ), Gafsa-Ksar (GAF), and the most recent, Enfidha (NBE). These airports handle tourism-related charter flights from Europe and are mostly seasonal.
Numerous European airlines operate the routes to/from several Tunisian airports. Tunisair, a state-owned enterprise, serves as the country's national airline. As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Tunisia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Tunisia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights
Maritime Security
Tunisia faces similar maritime security threats from terrorism and piracy as the other countries in North Africa, but its relative strength and stability mitigate these threats significantly. Port security is acceptable, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Tunisia is cooperating closely with the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and the Department of Homeland Security to improve the maritime security capability and interoperability between our countries. U.S. Mission Tunisia is confident that these efforts will improve regional maritime security and cooperation in North Africa.
Travelers with Special Considerations
For specific traveler concerns in Tunisia, review the local laws and circumstances on the U.S. Department of State’s Country Information Page.
Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption &/or Transparency
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Risk of Wrongful Detention “D” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Tunisia.
The law prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention and provided for the right of any person to challenge the lawfulness of their arrest or detention in court, although security forces do not always observe these provisions. The law provides for the right of any person to challenge the lawfulness of their arrest or detention in court. Human rights organizations express concern that the government uses its powers under the state of emergency to place citizens under house arrest with limited evidence or foundation for suspicion. The length of pretrial detention remains unpredictable and may last from one month to several years, principally due to lengthy criminal prosecution procedures, judicial inefficiency, and lack of capacity.
The law provides for the right to a fair and public trial, but the judiciary does not always enforce this right, and local and international rights groups reported that authorities frequently did not follow the law on trial procedures. The law provides criminal penalties for corruption by officials, and the government has taken some preliminary steps to implement these laws.
Health Concerns
Medical care is adequate, with several new private polyclinics available that function as simple hospitals by providing a variety of procedures. Specialized care or treatment may not be available in all locations. Tunisia’s healthcare system is in steady decline and is experiencing challenges such as Medical professionals and specialists departing Tunisia for outside employment and pharmaceutical shortages of up to 700 medications (including those that treat heart disease, epilepsy, diabetes, and cancer). Medical facilities that can handle complex trauma cases are virtually non-existent. While most private clinics have some physicians, who are fluent in English, the medical establishment primarily uses the French language. Public hospitals are overcrowded, underequipped, and understaffed. Nursing care in clinics is underdeveloped and, in some cases, nonexistent.
Well-equipped ambulances may not be present or are unreliable in most areas except Tunis, Sfax, Sousse, and Monastir. Even in urban areas, emergency response times are much longer than in the U.S. Many over-the-counter medications are available. Bring a full supply of the medications needed and a copy of your prescription.
Ambulance / Medical Emergency: 190
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Tunisia. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.
See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.
Vaccinations
Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.
Issues Traveling with Medications
Tunisia has severe shortages of medications, and not all medications available in the United States are available in Tunisia. Traveling to Tunisia with dry medication is legal, but liquids and injections are not allowed without an official letter from a physician. Unpredictable supply chains make it impossible to be sure if some medications will be available at local pharmacies. It is often necessary to call several establishments to find the prescription you are looking for, but it is equally possible that another specific medication may be available. Bring enough medication to last while you explore and establish outlets that can regularly provide medications you may need.
Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.
Water Quality
Food standards are fair, and potable water is available for nearly 85% of the population. Bottled water is inexpensive and readily available. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.
Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?
Natural Disasters
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Natural Disaster “N” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Tunisia.
Tunisia is in an active earthquake zone. Most buildings do not meet U.S. construction criteria for such an area.
Review OSAC’s report, Earthquake Preparedness Toolkit.
During the winter, extended downpours have overwhelmed Tunis’s storm drains and resulted in street flooding. The city can shut down because of washed-out roads when diverted traffic overburdens alternate routes.
Cybersecurity
Tunisia has robust programs in IT education/training overall, and expertise in cybersecurity is relatively strong. The Communications Technologies Ministry, along with Tunisia's regulatory agencies, works to protect against cybersecurity risks; a new cybersecurity legal framework is currently under development. Small- and medium-sized enterprises (especially those involved in financial/banking activities) should take particular care to mitigate cybersecurity risks as piracy and hacking incidents are known to occur. Huawei equipment is common in public/private network infrastructure, which raises cybersecurity concerns.
Dating Scam: Tunisian men have been known to target U.S. women online in communications that often turn romantic and result in an invitation to travel to Tunisia. Single women 40 years of age and older are typical targets. The Tunisian man is usually in his twenties. Once in Tunisia, a common scenario involves the man and his family pressuring the U.S. national into marriage. His goal is to then have the target submit a petition for his immigrant visa. Maintain caution if traveling to Tunisia to meet someone you have met online.
Illegal Events: Underground promotors have sold tickets online, and held events, without obtaining proper permits. U.S. citizens are surprised when police raid the illegal event they are attending. Verify the legitimacy of online promotors with local authorities and trusted local establishments.
Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.
Counter-intelligence Issues
Governments, corporations, criminals, terrorists, journalists, and private individuals seek to gather information about U.S. individuals, personnel, and activities. These entities have various motivations and seek to gather a range of information from personal data to national security information and trade secrets. Personnel working anywhere abroad should be cognizant that they are at risk of being targeted for intelligence collection and should remain vigilant and practice good personal, communications and operations security measures.
Import/Export Restrictions
Depending on the legal status of non-residents, temporary entry of materials and personal belongings is permitted. Companies and individuals should verify regulations applicable to their specific status before attempting to bring items into Tunisia. Imports of explosives and military- and security-related equipment are tightly controlled and only allowed under license. Narcotics and pornographic items are strictly forbidden. Possession of pornography is illegal and can lead to imprisonment.
Satellite phones, radios, GPS, personal tracking locators (PTLs), and drones will be confiscated at the airport, ports of entry, or if found in your possession while in Tunisia and can result in prison time or a fine.
Currency Restrictions for Entry:
Import of currency is prohibited. Visitors must declare cash brought into Tunisia in excess of TND 10,000 (or foreign currency equivalent). They must declare amounts above TND 5,000 if they wish to export that amount upon departure.
Currency Restrictions for Exit:
Export of Tunisian currency is prohibited. Up to TND 3,000 may be re-exchanged into foreign currency upon departure from Tunisia with the original exchange receipt. Visitors may only export up to TND 5,000 (or foreign currency equivalent) if that amount was declared upon arrival.
Tunisian law prohibits the export of foreign currency from Tunisia as payment for imports prior to the presentation to a bank of documents confirming shipment of the merchandise to the country.
A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.
Additional resources and reports can be found in the OSAC Traveler Toolkit.