Tunisia currency rules can seem complex at first glance, but they are straightforward once explained. This guide, based on the official Tunisian Customs portal, covers everything you need to manage your money with peace of mind, from declaration thresholds to restrictions on the Tunisian dinar. Whether you are a tourist or a resident, these Tunisia currency rules apply to you.
Planning a trip to Tunisia means getting to grips with customs formalities, particularly regarding the money you can bring in. Between declaration thresholds, restrictions on the Tunisian dinar and the rights of non-residents, foreign-exchange rules can seem complex. This article, based on the official Tunisian Customs portal, explains everything you need to know to manage your money with peace of mind, whether you are a tourist or a resident.
1. Mandatory declaration of currency on entry and exit
Whether you are entering or leaving Tunisia, any import or export of currency worth the equivalent of 20,000 Tunisian dinars (TND) or more must be declared to the customs services. This obligation also applies to transit operations.
Note: if you make this declaration on your return to Tunisia, it is subject to a fiscal stamp of 10 Tunisian dinars, regardless of the amount declared.
2. Special case of non-resident travellers
- Re-export limited to 5,000 TND: A non-resident traveller may only re-export the equivalent of a maximum of 5,000 TND of the banknote currency they imported. To do so, they must have completed, on entry into Tunisian territory, a currency import declaration stamped by customs.
- Re-export ceiling of 30,000 TND: The value of banknote currency you can re-export may not exceed 30,000 TND (based on your entry declaration). Above this amount, re-export must be carried out through an authorised banking or financial institution.
- Validity and personal nature: Your currency import declaration is valid for 3 months from your date of entry and can only be used for a single trip. It is strictly personal and non-transferable.
3. What to do with leftover, unused currency?
If, as a resident or traveller, you have not used all the currency you exchanged, you must:
- Repatriate it (bring it back into Tunisia).
- Resell it to an authorised intermediary (bank, exchange office) within a maximum of 7 working days following your return.
This will allow you to benefit from this allowance again for a future trip.
4. The Tunisian dinar may not be exported or imported
It is strictly forbidden to import or export Tunisian dinars (notes or coins), whatever the amount. This prohibition is absolute, except under specific agreements made by the Central Bank of Tunisia.
Practical tip: You can exchange your currency (euros, dollars, etc.) for dinars on arrival, at authorised banks or exchange offices. Keep your exchange receipts carefully: they will be essential to convert your unused dinars back into foreign currency before you leave.
⚠️ Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on the regulations in force on the official Tunisian Customs website (consulted June 2026). It is given for purely informational and unofficial purposes. Customs laws and procedures are subject to change. It is your responsibility to check the exact provisions directly with the Tunisian embassy or customs services before your trip.
