Do I need a work permit to freelance in Tunisia?

Technically yes — any work activity in Tunisia requires a work permit. However, many digital nomads and freelancers working for foreign clients operate in a gray area on tourist entry. There is no dedicated freelancer or digital nomad visa as of 2025.

What is the Tunisian Startup Act?

The 2018 Startup Act provides qualifying startups with an 8-year corporate tax exemption, a 1-year sabbatical for founders leaving employment, simplified visa procedures for foreign founders, and access to government grants and support programs.

Is Tunisia good for IT professionals?

Yes, Tunisia has a growing tech sector with competitive salaries by local standards (TND 2,000–5,000/month for experienced developers). The country produces over 8,000 engineering graduates annually and is a popular nearshoring destination for French companies.

Can I open a business as a foreigner?

Yes, foreigners can own 100% of a company in most sectors. Registration through the API takes about 10–15 days. Some regulated sectors (banking, telecoms, mining) require special authorization. A local lawyer or accountant is recommended for the process.

What are typical working hours in Tunisia?

The legal maximum is 48 hours per week, though many white-collar jobs operate on a 40-hour schedule. The working week runs Monday to Friday (or Monday to Saturday in some sectors). Ramadan typically brings shorter working hours.

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🇹🇳 Tunisia

Work & Business

Tunisia's economy is diversified across agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and a growing tech sector. The country has become a nearshore hub for French companies, with a young, educated, French-speaking workforce and significantly lower costs than Europe..

TND 480/mo

Min. Wage

$155; 48-hour work week (SMIG)

TND 1,200/mo

Avg. Salary

$385; varies widely by sector

48 hours

Work Week

Standard legal maximum; 40 hrs in some sectors

20%

Corporate Tax

Increased from 15% in 2025 Finance Law

Last updated: March 2026

Overview🏛️Tunis 🏖️Sousse

🛂Visa 🏥Healthcare 💰Finance 🏠Housing 💼Working 🌆Daily Life ✈️Moving 📚Education 🌅Lifestyle 📈Investing

Overview

Key Takeaways

International companies and NGOs are the primary employers of foreign workers in Tunis
The 2018 Startup Act provides tax benefits, visa facilitation, and grants for qualifying startups
Regus operates professional office spaces in Les Berges du Lac with day passes and monthly plans

Job Market for Expats

Expat employment opportunities in Tunisia are concentrated in international companies, NGOs, teaching (English and French), and the growing IT/outsourcing sector.

International companies and NGOs are the primary employers of foreign workers in Tunis
The IT and tech sector is growing rapidly — Tunisia has over 100 tech startups and several incubators
English teaching positions are available at language schools and international schools
French-speaking expats have a significant advantage in the job market
Freelancing and remote work are increasingly common among expats, though no specific visa exists

Starting a Business

Tunisia offers incentives for foreign investment, particularly in technology, manufacturing, and export-oriented businesses. The startup ecosystem is growing, supported by government initiatives and incubators.

The 2018 Startup Act provides tax benefits, visa facilitation, and grants for qualifying startups
Foreign investors can hold 100% ownership in most sectors without prior government approval
Business registration takes approximately 10–15 days through the API (Agence de Promotion de l'Industrie)
Wholly exporting companies benefit from reduced social security contributions (0.5% employer rate)
Free-trade zones and special economic zones offer additional tax incentives

Coworking & Remote Work

Tunis has a small but growing coworking scene, with spaces concentrated in Les Berges du Lac and La Marsa. The digital nomad community is emerging but not yet as established as in Morocco or Portugal.

Regus operates professional office spaces in Les Berges du Lac with day passes and monthly plans
Cogite is Tunisia's pioneering coworking space, popular with local startups and freelancers
Al Badil Coworking in La Marsa offers a creative atmosphere with Mediterranean views
Café culture is strong — many cafés in La Marsa and Sidi Bou Said welcome laptop workers
Internet speeds in coworking spaces typically range from 20–50 Mbps

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