The summer return season for Tunisian residents living abroad officially began on June 18, 2026, from the port of Marseille, with the first crossings operated by the ships ‘Tanit’ and ‘Carthage’ of the Tunisian Navigation Company.
The launch of this operation took place under the supervision of the Tunisian ambassador to France, Dhia Khaled, in the presence of the Consul General of Tunisia in Marseille, Mohamed Chergui, as well as several members of the Assembly of the Representatives of the People and the National Council of Regions and Districts.
Officials from the ministries of the Interior and Transport, the General Directorate of Customs, and the Office of Tunisians Abroad also took part in this operation.
Administrative services aboard the ships
On this occasion, the Tunisian ambassador to France inquired about the services provided to travelers, notably the administrative facilities put in place to facilitate their return to Tunisia during the summer season.
He specifically monitored the passport-issuing operation aboard the ship, a service provided by the Ministry of the Interior with the aim of bringing administrative services closer to Tunisians living abroad.
Customs facilities for travelers
The visit also made it possible to learn about procedures related to baggage handling, the issuance of vehicle circulation permits, and currency declarations.
These services, provided by Tunisian customs, aim to simplify travelers’ procedures and reduce waiting times, especially during periods of high passenger traffic.
According to the information released, several passengers praised this pilot experience, noting that it provides appreciable administrative and organizational facilities before arriving in Tunisia.
Measures to streamline departures from Marseille
The ambassador also learned about the measures adopted by the Marseille port authorities to improve the reception conditions for passengers and to facilitate travel procedures.
These arrangements are designed to ensure smoother port traffic while guaranteeing comfortable conditions and service standards suitable for members of the Tunisian community returning to the country during the summer.
A mobilization to support the Tunisian community
The launch of the summer return season occurs in a context marked by strong demand for maritime crossings between France and Tunisia.
This operation reflects the mobilization of the various Tunisian entities involved, notably the diplomatic and consular representations, the ministries, customs, the Office of Tunisians Abroad, and the Tunisian Navigation Company, in order to improve the quality of services and facilitate the return of Tunisians residing abroad to their homeland.
