Tunisia waives visa requirements for Chinese tourists

The Tunisian government has made a significant decision, announcing the exemption of Chinese passport holders traveling to Tunisia for tourism purposes from entry visa requirements. This development was confirmed by the Chinese Embassy in Tunisia on their official website on October 7, 2023.

This exemption applies to all Chinese tourists, allowing them to stay in Tunisia for up to 90 days. There are no restrictions on the number of tourists traveling together, be it as individuals or in organized tour groups. Furthermore, this is open to Chinese tourists arriving from China or any other country.

To enjoy this visa waiver, Chinese tourists will need a valid passport and must show proof of a confirmed hotel reservation and a return or onward flight ticket that aligns with their intended stay duration in Tunisia. Authorities at the Tunisian entry points will verify that travelers meet these requirements before granting them entry without a visa.

It’s important to note that this exemption doesn’t apply to travelers coming to Tunisia for purposes other than tourism. Those visiting for business, education, work, family visits, or any other reasons will still need to apply for a visa through the nearest Tunisian embassy or consulate. The Chinese Embassy in Tunisia also emphasizes the importance of respecting Tunisian laws, regulations, customs, and traditions during their visit.

Furthermore, with Tunisia’s inclusion as a visa-free destination for Chinese passport holders, the number of destinations where Chinese travelers do not need prior visas will increase to 73 in total, comprising 33 visa-free access destinations and 38 visa-on-arrival destinations. Additionally, two other destinations will grant Chinese visitors electronic travel authorizations (eTA). As a result, Chinese passports ranking will ascend to the 73rd position on the Guide Passport Index.

Despite this recent change, it’s worth noting that Chinese passport holders still require visas for travel to 156 countries and territories, including 124 that require ordinary visas and 32 destinations where they can obtain e-visas online. Nonetheless, China has emerged as one of the world’s largest outbound tourist markets in recent years, attracting a substantial number of international travelers.