Tunisia’s E-Visa Launch Delayed Indefinitely
Tunisia’s highly anticipated electronic visa system has been delayed after a flawed international tender process saw no bids meet the required standards, pushing back digitalization of visa applications.
Tunisia’s planned electronic visa (e-Visa) system has been delayed indefinitely, moving past its originally scheduled 2025 launch due to the unsuccessful international tender process initiated in September 2024 by the Ministry of Communication Technologies. None of the eight applicants—including both Tunisian and international firms—met the technical or administrative benchmarks set in the tender specifications. Some submissions were even disqualified for failing to comply with fundamental submission rules.
Delayed rollout of the secure platform
Among the unsuccessful bidders were Orell Füssli AG & EWM (Switzerland), SITA Advanced Travel Solutions (United Kingdom), Mühlbauer (Germany), three Tunisian consortia (MEDIANET, THINKTANK & MAVIANCE; MEDIADIFFUSION; VFS Global, NUMERYX), Addinn, Aira & ELM (France), and EY (Tunisia). Despite strong interest, none were selected to develop, maintain, and manage a future secure platform with online payments and automated document verification.
This setback delays Tunisia’s digital visa ambitions, which were intended to streamline entry and boost tourism by offering a fully online process. An official statement outlines the tender outcome. The ministry has not yet announced a timeline for relaunching the bidding process.
Current traveler options
Until the project is relaunched, travelers in need of visas must continue applying through Tunisian embassies and consulates using traditional procedures.
Travelers from countries including much of Europe, the United States, and parts of Asia can enter Tunisia visa-free for up to three months. Confirm eligibility with your nearest Tunisian embassy.
Tunisia’s tourism sector remains a cornerstone of its economy, and authorities view e-visas as a strategic tool for attracting more international visitors. A digital visa platform would align the country with global competitors that have already adopted online visa issuance, but until a new provider is selected, the existing visa process remains in effect.
