Applying for asylum in North Tunisia

Submitting an asylum application

As a first step, you need to approach UNHCR’s partner Tunisian Council for Refugees (CTR) to schedule an appointment for pre-registration. Appointments for the pre-registration may only be scheduled in-person, unless you are not able to reach CTR premises, in which case you should call the CTR helpline number on 58 574 595.

Address: Rue de Grenade – Angle Naceur Gharbi – El Manar 1 – Tunis 2092
Hotline Phone Number: 00216.58 574 595 (Hours: Monday to Friday, from 09:00 to 16:30)
Location : https://goo.gl/maps/vMAd7JqJvzDSLDVB9

If you are based in Sousse, you can contact CTR at the following address: Rue Rayed Bejaoui Bouhsina, Immeuble Hafyen, 1er étage, Bureau N° 8
Derrière Monoprix Bab Gharbi. Sousse
Hotline: 00.216.50154770

Please bring with you to the office of the Tunisian Council for Refugees:

  • Any available identification
  • Any document related to your situation
  • An ID photo

You will be given an appointment slip to return for an information session and pre-registration.

At the pre-registration stage, you will fill a registration form that includes sections on:

  • Your personal profile and vulnerabilities
  • Your protection claims and why you have left your country
  • Situation in Tunisia, and concerns in your country of origin, if applicable.

Do not hesitate to request support in filling the registration form. Your situation will be treated with respect and confidentiality.

Important: Note that given the number of applicants, you may have to wait to be interviewed. Do not worry as the persons in charge of the interviews know about your case. You should also know that some persons might be interviewed before you due to their urgent needs. UNHCR is well informed about the situation of every individual, we will be doing our best to support you and conduct the needed follow up.

It is IMPORTANT to inform UNHCR and CTR of any changes in your contact information (address, phone number) as this is the only way UNHCR and CTR can contact you for your appointments and provide you with updates on your case. If you do not do so you may be missing important information! Please contact CTR helpline number on 58 574 595. Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm. Alternatively please contact UNHCR in Tunis at [email protected].

In the meantime, if you or one of your family members have any specific need which requires urgent consideration, please bring your concerns to the attention of CTR staff. Our partners have a team of specialized social workers and psychologists who can assist you. Your situation will be treated with respect and confidentiality.

Afterwards you will be referred to UNHCR for a registration interview and access to further support when applicable. Asylum seekers should then present themselves to their registration interview at UNHCR`s premises at the determined date with all members of their household and make sure they bring with them all documents relevant to their family.

Once registered, you will receive an asylum seeker card issued by UNHCR, which will facilitate your movements and access to services. Always keep your card with you and do not share or give it to anyone. Remember to report any lost or stolen card to UNHCR so that we can make sure to replace it.

If your situation in Tunisia has changed since your registration or if you face urgent problems, make sure to reach out to UNHCR in Tunis either by visiting CTR or by contacting us directly via email at the following address: [email protected]

The asylum procedure is FREE and WITHOUT ANY CHARGES.

Under no circumstances should you accept any offers from people who are asking you for money to submit an asylum application, to get an appointment or to obtain a document.

>> Learn about the Refugee Status Determination (RSD) process in North Tunisia here


You can also visit our Frequently asked questions for quick information about UNHCR in Tunisiaaccommodationfinancial assistanceeducation and other helpful services. 

See also

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