How To Start A Business in Tunisia

How to Start a Business in Tunisia - Step by Step Guide

Starting a business in Tunisia involves clear steps for both local and foreign investors. Below is a detailed guide outlining the necessary procedures, fees, taxes, and expected processing times to help you navigate the process effectively.

Step-by-Step Guide for Locals

1. Choose Your Business Structure: Tunisia allows various business structures such as Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (SARL), or Joint Stock Company (SA).
2. Register Your Business: The first step is to register your business with the National Business Registration Center (Centre National du Registre de Commerce - CNRC).
   Centre National du Registre de Commerce (CNRC)
   Fees: The registration fee varies, typically around TND 40 to TND 100 (approximately USD 14 to USD 35).
3. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): Once registered, obtain a TIN from the Tunisian tax authorities.
   Tunisian Revenue Office
   Fees: Free.
4. Register for VAT: If your business turnover exceeds TND 100,000 annually, you must register for VAT with the Tunisian tax authorities.
   Fees: Free, though you will need to file regular VAT returns.
5. Register with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS): Businesses with employees are required to register with the CNSS for social security contributions.
   National Social Security Fund (CNSS)
   Fees: Employer contribution: 16.57%, Employee contribution: 9.18%.
6. Open a Business Bank Account: After registering your business, open a business bank account in a local bank.
   Fees: Initial deposit typically ranges from TND 100 to TND 300 (approximately USD 35 to USD 105).
7. Obtain Required Licenses and Permits: Depending on the type of business, you may need to apply for specific business permits and licenses.
   Fees: Varies depending on the business sector.

Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Investors

1. Choose Your Business Structure: Foreign investors can choose from various business structures including Limited Liability Company (SARL), Joint Stock Company (SA), or establish a branch of a foreign company.
2. Register Your Business: Foreign investors must register their business with the National Business Registration Center (CNRC).
   Centre National du Registre de Commerce (CNRC)
   Fees: The registration fee varies, typically around TND 40 to TND 100 (approximately USD 14 to USD 35).
3. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): Foreign businesses must obtain a TIN from the Tunisian tax authorities.
   Tunisian Revenue Office
   Fees: Free.
4. Register for VAT: Foreign investors must register for VAT if the business turnover exceeds TND 100,000 annually.
   Fees: Free, though you must file monthly VAT returns.
5. Register with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS): If the business hires employees, they must register with CNSS.
   National Social Security Fund (CNSS)
   Fees: Employer contribution: 16.57%, Employee contribution: 9.18%.
6. Obtain Work Permits for Foreign Employees: Foreign employees wishing to work in Tunisia must apply for a work permit through the Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training.
   Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training
   Fees: TND 100 to TND 500 (approximately USD 35 to USD 175).
7. Open a Business Bank Account: Foreign investors must open a business bank account in Tunisia.
   Fees: Initial deposit ranges from TND 100 to TND 300 (approximately USD 35 to USD 105).
8. Obtain Required Licenses and Permits: Depending on the type of business, foreign investors must apply for specific permits.
   Fees: Varies depending on the business sector.

Estimated Duration

• For Locals: 1-2 weeks
• For Foreign Investors: 3-4 weeks (including obtaining work permits)

Useful Resources

• Centre National du Registre de Commerce (CNRC)
• Tunisian Revenue Office
• National Social Security Fund (CNSS)
• Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training