Foreign property owners can obtain a renewable temporary residence permit (typically 1-2 years) using their title as proof of accommodation, which after five continuous years can lead to long-term residence.
A few things to line up early:
Visa rules change often — treat this as a starting point and confirm the latest official requirements before you plan.
Remember: buying a home and gaining the right to live there are usually separate steps. See how ownership works in Tunisia, and what it costs to live there in our cost-of-retiring guide.
Tunisia offers a notable break for foreign retirees: with a double-tax treaty in place (the UK has one), only about 20% of a foreign pension is taxable, at a low rate, giving a very small effective bill. Reforms are phasing in over coming years, so confirm the current terms with an adviser.
State hospitals are basic, but private clinics in Tunis, Sousse and Sfax are good and inexpensive, and Tunisia is a regional medical-tourism destination. Private insurance is affordable, making it a low-cost place to arrange cover. Coastal and tourist areas are generally safe, though check current travel advice and avoid certain border and desert regions; French is the main second language with limited English, and they drive on the right.
Hammamet is a long-established European retiree favourite, Sousse and Port El Kantaoui offer resort living, the Tunis suburbs of La Marsa and Gammarth are upmarket, and sunny Djerba island suits winter warmth.
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