Tunisia eases entry rules for Egyptians with new visa-on-arrival policy

Ahram Online , Monday 15 Sep 2025

Tunisia announced that certain categories of Egyptian citizens will be able to obtain visas upon arrival at its border crossings for the first time, in a move aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

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According to a statement from the Tunisian embassy in Cairo on Monday, the new policy applies to business leaders, doctors, researchers, senior professionals, and high-ranking state officials.

Egyptians holding valid Schengen or US visas, as well as residence permits, are also eligible.

In addition, tourist groups of more than 10 people qualify if their trips are organized through accredited Tunisian travel agencies and they are accompanied by an agency representative at the airport.

Applicants must submit advance name lists to Tunisian authorities and provide supporting documents, including detailed travel itineraries, return tickets that match hotel bookings, copies of valid passports, and proof of the purpose of travel.

Previously, Egyptians were required to obtain visas in advance from the Tunisian embassy in Cairo, a process often described as strict and time-consuming.

The decision represents a major relaxation of travel procedures, although it is limited to select groups, and comes as part of Tunisia’s efforts to revive its tourism sector after the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing economic challenges.

Tunisia currently receives about 100,000 Egyptian visitors each year, according to the Ministry of Tourism, and officials expect the new policy could increase that figure by 20-30 percent.

The move also supports Tunisia’s digital transformation strategy, which includes plans to launch an electronic visa platform by the end of 2025 to simplify travel procedures for Egyptians and other nationalities.

Last week, Tunisian Prime Minister Sara Zaafarani made an official visit to Egypt, where she co-chaired the 18th session of the Egyptian-Tunisian High Joint Committee with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.

The two-day visit to Cairo was her first since taking office in March 2025 and underscored both countries’ commitment to closer cooperation.

The meetings concluded with the signing of eight agreements covering health, medical sciences, and other key areas aimed at strengthening economic and development partnerships.

Tourism cooperation was also highlighted in the committee discussions, with both sides agreeing on the need to revive cultural exchanges and facilitate travel between the two countries.

Proposals included joint promotion of heritage tourism and improving connectivity through air and maritime links to encourage greater movement of people and trade.

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