Governor's Authorisation for Property Purchase in Tunisia: Who Needs It and How to Obtain It

If you are a foreign national or a Tunisian Resident Abroad (TRE) looking to buy property in Tunisia, you have likely heard about the "Governor's authorisation" (autorisation du Gouverneur). This administrative requirement is often misunderstood, causing delays and even abandoned transactions. This guide clarifies who is actually affected, when it is mandatory, and how to obtain it.

Legal Framework: Who Needs Authorisation?

The regime governing property acquisitions by non-residents and foreigners in Tunisia is primarily governed by the Investment Code (Law 2016-71), the Commercial Code, and the BCT's foreign exchange regulations.

Cases Requiring Governor's Authorisation

1. Agricultural land purchases by any foreigner (regardless of nationality) — this restriction is absolute.
2. Property outside tourist zones or investment zones purchased by a non-Tunisian national (French, German, Italian, etc.).
3. Foreign-majority companies acquiring property outside free zones or special investment areas.

Cases NOT Requiring Authorisation

• TRE (Tunisians Residing Abroad): Tunisian passport-holders living abroad have the same acquisition rights as Tunisian residents. No governor's authorisation needed for standard residential properties.
• Arab nationals: Reciprocity agreements simplify procedures for some Arab League member nationals.
• Tourist and investment zones: Specifically delimited zones (Hammamet, Sousse, Djerba, port areas) are generally open to foreign purchases without authorisation.
• Inheritance: Acquired by inheritance requires notification but not prior authorisation.

Application Procedure

Required Documents

1. Written request to the Governor (available from the Delegation office)
2. Passport copy (bio page, visa, recent entries/exits)
3. Proof of foreign residency permit
4. Full property description (address, surface area, nature)
5. Copy of title deed or land registry extract
6. Source of funds documentation (foreign bank statements, wire transfer proof)
7. Stated purpose (primary residence, rental investment, secondary home)

Timeline and Costs

• Legal timeframe: 30–90 days, but in practice 1–6 months depending on the governorate
• Official cost: no administrative fee, but notary preparation fees apply (TND 500–2,000)

Practical tip: File for authorisation before signing the preliminary contract, or include a suspensive condition: "This sale is conditional upon obtaining the Governor's authorisation." Without this clause, you risk losing your deposit if authorisation is refused or delayed.

Key FAQ

Does a dual-nationality TRE need authorisation? A TRE holding both Tunisian and foreign nationality is treated as a Tunisian national for property acquisition purposes. No governor's authorisation is needed for standard residential purchases. Present your Tunisian passport during formalities.

Is the authorisation linked to the specific transaction? Yes. It applies to a specific property and buyer combination. A new purchase requires a new authorisation.

Sources: Tunisia Investment Code (Law 2016-71), BCT Foreign Exchange Circulars, notarial practice 2026.