Tunisia

As a foreign national, you must carry ID, such as a copy of the photo page of your passport. Security officials may ask you for ID at any time. Dual British-Tunisian nationals should carry a copy of the photo page of their passport or their national ID card.

Beach-appropriate clothing in holiday resorts is acceptable, however when visiting religious sites or remote areas of the country, local custom is to dress modestly.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, next starting in February 2027. During this time, eating or drinking, smoking or chewing gum in public in the daytime may cause offence.

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts. You should also: 

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that hotels and restaurants serving food or drink in fasting hours may separate you from Muslim guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening
• be patient and show tolerance

The sale of alcohol is permitted in Tunisia but is banned from sale in supermarkets on Fridays. You can still order and drink alcohol in hotels and bars. During Ramadan, sale of alcohol is banned and the consumption of alcohol is restricted to fewer restaurants and bars. These rules do not apply at holiday resorts.

It is illegal to bring any controlled or prohibited substances into Tunisia. Travellers found in possession of illegal drugs can face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines. Tunisian legislation relating to illegal drugs applies regardless of the traveller’s country of residence, country of departure, whether the substance is legal elsewhere or the quantity being carried. Do not carry any such substances into the country.

Do not take photographs of or near government buildings or military sites.

You must get permission from the Tunisian authorities before removing antiquities from Tunisia. Not getting permission in advance can result in lengthy delays on departure. If you do not declare the item, you could get a fine and a prison sentence.

It is illegal for foreign nationals to buy property outright in Tunisia. British nationals often do this through a Tunisian third party. If you are considering buying property, consult a local lawyer. Do not make private arrangements, which may be illegal and could result in a large financial loss.

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Tunisia. Members of the LGBT+ community have been targeted by criminals.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

In summer months, heatwaves and extreme temperatures may occur. This can cause an increase in the pressure on the electricity grid. In response, the Tunisian electricity and gas company (STEG) may carry out temporary power cuts. These disruptions can have a direct impact on infrastructure across the country, including in some hotels. Power cuts can temporarily affect air conditioning, mobile phone networks and Internet connections. In extreme cases cuts can impact water supply and payment transactions (ATMs and card payments). Disruptions are usually only temporary. Find out more from your tour operator, at your accommodation or via local media regarding potential restrictions in your area.