Tunisia Facilitates Passport Services for Returning Diaspora
Tunisia is home to approximately 1.8 million Tunisians living abroad (TRE). Every summer, airports, ports, and administrative offices in Tunisia enter a unique rhythm, driven by the return of the diaspora. This highly anticipated seasonal movement is accompanied by significant pressure on passport services. To address this, new measures have been implemented, according to the TAP agency.
Streamlined Passport Services
At the Ministry of Interior, a dedicated space has been set up within the General Directorate of Border Police and Foreigners. The goal is to accelerate on-site procedures: in some cases, a passport can be issued or renewed in under 30 minutes, explains Moez Thabet, Director of Passports and Travel Documents.
Expanded Services
The system is not limited to traditional administrative offices. Two passport counters have been installed directly on board the "Carthage" and "Tanit" ferries, in partnership with the Tunisian Navigation Company. This initiative, already tested last summer, allowed for the issuance of approximately 800 passports during crossings.
Key Entry Points
The country's main entry points have also been integrated into the system. At the Port of La Goulette and Tunis-Carthage International Airport, offices now enable the processing of certain situations on-site, particularly when an expired passport is discovered during travel.
International Expansion
The network also extends abroad. Consular offices have been opened this year in Tokyo, Beijing, and Abidjan, with additional openings announced in Warsaw and Belgrade. The objective is to bring administrative services closer to Tunisians living outside the country.
Digitalization Efforts
In parallel, a new stage of digitalization has been launched. A platform allows for the acceleration of several procedures, and passport applications can now be submitted online, with electronic payment and appointment scheduling. This evolution aims to reduce travel and simplify procedures in daily life.
