Tunisia Becomes a Top Destination for Italian Retirees
Tunisia has become an unbeatable destination for Italian retirees seeking a pleasant and affordable living environment, especially with the end of tax benefits offered by Portugal to foreign retirees in 2024. Indeed, more and more Italians are choosing to settle in Tunisia, attracted by a set of fiscal and qualitative advantages. Since 2019, the country has recorded a significant increase in the number of expatriates, with a 46% growth in the number of retirees establishing themselves there.
According to data from the Register of Italians Residing Abroad (AIRE), in 2020, nearly 2,000 Italian retirees moved to Tunisia, bringing their total number to 7,500 in 2023. The vast majority, around 80% (approximately 6,000 retirees), are concentrated in the Hammamet region, renowned for its beaches and Mediterranean climate, similar to that of Italy.
Among the main advantages of Tunisia, the Mediterranean climate and proximity to Italy are determining factors. Additionally, the low cost of living, coupled with accessible healthcare, attracts more and more retirees seeking a peaceful and affordable retirement. The possibility of receiving their pension in Tunisia, without affecting their quality of life, is also a major advantage.
Tunisia stands out with a particularly attractive tax regime for foreign retirees, especially Italians. Unlike Italy, where the tax rate can reach up to 30%, Tunisia imposes a maximum tax rate of 5% on retirement pensions. Here are the details of the tax regime in place for Italian retirees:
- A tax rate not exceeding 5%, compared to 30% in Italy.
- Only 20% of gross income is subject to progressive taxation.
- The first €1,500 of income are totally exempt from taxation.
- For income between €5,000 and €10,000, the tax rate is 2.3%.
- The maximum tax rate is capped at 5%, offering a seductive fiscal alternative.
Since 2007, Italian law has allowed its citizens to receive their pension abroad, and Tunisia has become a privileged destination for Italian retirees, seduced by a serene living environment and a very advantageous tax regime.
