Living in Tunis as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Expatriates planning to stay in Tunis for more than 90 days must apply for a residential visa at the embassy or consulate of their home country. Required documents include a valid passport, passport photos, a residence permit fee, and proof of legal residency in the country.

Language resources

French is the official language of Tunisia and is spoken widely. English is also gaining popularity as a second language, especially in businesses and tourism industries. Learning a few key phrases in French and Arabic, such as salut (hello), classe d'anglais (English class), and merci (thank you), can go a long way in facilitating communication with the locals.

Housing

Accommodation costs in Tunis vary depending on location and type of property. A room in a shared house typically costs around 200-300 TND (about $90-125 USD) per month, while a one-bedroom apartment can range from 500-900 TND ($225-375 USD). For larger apartments, prices increase substantially, with a three-plus bedroom house costing around 1,500 TND ($625 USD) and up. It's vital to arrange the necessary housing documents and fees with the embassy before arrival.

Groceries

The cost of groceries in Tunis is lower than in Western Europe and the US, with basic items like bread, milk, and fruits being readily available in supermarkets and street markets. Cooking at home is highly recommended as eating out in Tunis can be more expensive than cooking homemade meals.

Transportation

Transportation expenses in Tunis are relatively low. A monthly transport pass costs around 30 TND ($13 USD), providing unlimited use of public transportation. Taxis are also affordable, with short trips costing around 20-30 TND ($8-13 USD). Owning a car in Tunis requires paying various fees such as vehicle permit, registration, and licensing fees.

Tunis has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot, dry summers. The temperature rarely drops below 10°C (50°F) in winter and often exceeds 30°C (86°F) in summer. The damp sea breeze, known as the garb, provides welcome relief from the heat.

The job market in Tunis is diverse and offers opportunities in a variety of industries, including finance, IT, tourism, and education. Many multinational corporations have establishments in the city, such as IBM, HP, and Deloitte. Tunis also has a growing startup scene, with coworking spaces and incubators such as Nawarak and NexTatTech.

Healthcare in Tunis is of a high standard, with modern hospitals and clinics staffed by highly qualified medical professionals. Some of the top healthcare facilities in Tunis include the Institut Clinique la Rabta and the Clinique Internationale du Carthage. Private health insurance is recommended for expats for additional coverage.

Tunis has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trains, and a metro system. The bus system, operated by Minsitur, covers most of the city and suburbs, while the metro provides a fast and convenient way to travel around the central areas. Taxis are also readily available.

Tunis is generally considered safe for expats, though it's always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. some areas, such as the historic medina, may be more crowded and congested, making it easier to get lost or misplaced. It's recommended to avoid carrying expensive items in public and to be cautious of pickpockets.