Tunisia: Major updates to the FCR regime for expatriates

Tunisian customs authorities have implemented a significant reform of the franchise regime for Tunisians residing abroad (FCR), introducing a series of measures to enhance border services and simplify administrative processes. The updated system, now unified under a modernized legal framework, permits expatriates to import a vehicle once every ten years and accelerates the digital transition of customs services.

Colonel Elyes Belkhir of the General Directorate of Tunisian Customs stated that these reforms are part of a broader strategy to boost the efficiency of border crossings, particularly during peak periods like the summer. Additional human resources have been deployed, and information systems have been updated to expedite traveler processing and improve border flow.

The legal framework governing the FCR regime, which has been in place since 1995, has undergone a complete overhaul. Tunisian Customs reports that all regulatory texts have been revised and harmonized to create a single, clearer, and better-structured system. This update aims to resolve inconsistencies in previous regulations and provide a unified legal basis for all vehicle categories eligible for the tax advantage, including cars and motorcycles.

A central new rule allows Tunisians living abroad to benefit from the FCR advantage for importing a vehicle or motorcycle once every decade. This applies to all types of engines, including gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles. Authorities present this as a balance between maintaining the benefit for the diaspora and regulating its use within a clear, sustainable framework.

Alongside the legal reforms, Tunisian Customs is accelerating the digitalization of its services to reduce waiting times at border points through better traffic management and the dematerialization of administrative procedures. The use of digital tools has reportedly already improved traffic flow, especially during periods of mass return for Tunisians from abroad. New applications, Rokhsati for vehicle management and Amtiati, are being developed to enhance transparency and simplify procedures.

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these reforms are part of a global strategy aimed at strengthening the efficiency of border posts during periods of high affluence, especially in the summer.