Tunisia Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Tunisia
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated May 21, 2026
Tunisia recorded 4.7 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2020, a rate that is moderate by global standards. That places Tunisia #71 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Africa average of 7.6 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide rates have risen 76% over the past decade (from 2.7 in 2010). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Tunisia at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
4.7 /100k
Safety Rank
#125 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 2 of 4
Data Year
2020
Homicide Rate Trend (2004-2020)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have risen 76% over the past decade (from 2.7 in 2010). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Tunisia Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Tunisia, the homicide rate for men is 4.0× higher than the rate for women — 7.5 vs 1.9 per 100,000 (2020).
Homicide victims per 100,000 of each sex. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
Armed Conflict Context
Tunisia has recorded battle-related deaths in recent years. Conflict deaths are counted separately from homicides — a country can have a moderate crime rate but significant conflict risk, and travel advisories weigh both.
Battle-Related Deaths
71(2016)
Military Spending
2.5% GDP(2024)
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Tunisia:
There was no change to the advisory level. The "Crime" and "Unrest" risk indicators were added. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise Increased Caution in Tunisia due to terrorism, crime, and unrest . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to: Within 16 km of the Algerian border due to terrorism , except for the cities of Tabarka and Ain Draham. Within 16 km of the border with Libya due to terrorism . Mount Chaambi National Park, Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila in Kasserine governorate due to terrorism .
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Tunisia
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated June 04, 2026).
Terrorism
Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – and most often target police, military, and other government security forces in Tunisia. Terrorists may also target crowds and unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) The U.S. Department of State recommends that U.S. citizens in Tunisia maintain a high level of vigilance throughout the country. U.S.
Specific Areas to Avoid
U.S. Embassy Tunis requires advance notification to Embassy security officials of travel by Embassy personnel outside greater Tunis. Certain cities and governorates in Tunisia have a fluid and unpredictable security environment, and these areas require additional scrutiny before U.S. government personnel under the Embassy’s (Chief of Mission’s) security responsibility may travel to them. U.S. citizens should not travel to the following areas due to terrorist activity: Within 16 km of the Algerian border, except for the cities of Tabarka and the Ain Draham. Within 16 km of Libyan border in southeastern Tunisia. The Mount Chaambi National Park, Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila in the Kasserine Governorate. The Mount Orbata area in the Gafsa governorate. The desert south of Remada due to the military zone. The following groups, including ones on the U.S.
Crime
Travelers should remain vigilant of their surroundings and take care to secure their valuables. Prominently displayed cash or jewelry may attract unwanted attention. High-value items left unattended and visible have been stolen from vehicles, hotel rooms, and private residences. Criminals have targeted tourists and business travelers for theft, pick pocketing, and scams. Incidents of theft, robbery, and burglary have been reported in upscale neighborhoods during day and night. Violent crime is rare, however, an increase in incidents of harassment and assaults against women have been reported in Tunis among the expatriate community. Some of these criminal encounters occurred in dark or isolated areas surrounding commercial zones, public beaches, and parks. Consider reporting any crimes against U.S. citizens immediately to the local police and the U.S. Embassy.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Demonstrations are most common on Saturdays and in the month of January. Since the October 7, 2023, attack by HAMAS on Israel, there has been an increase in spontaneous demonstrations, especially on weekends in Tunis near embassies (on Avenue du Martyr Taoufik Missaoui and Avenue Habib Bourguiba) and foreign cultural centers. Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Past demonstrations have turned violent. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
International Financial Scams
Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Tunisia. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Financial scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. For more information on international financial scams, see our page on Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages.
Technology Usage Abroad
Mobile Devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation applications (apps) are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration. Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers.
Victims of Crime
Victims may wish to report crimes to the local police by dialing 197 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(216) 71-107-000. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. U.S. Embassy Tunis can: Help you find appropriate medical care Assist you in reporting a crime to the police Contact relatives or friends with your written consent Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. Provide information on U.S.-based resources for victims of crime.
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regards to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout Tunisia. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. The Tunisian National Guard encourages persons traveling into the desert to register their travel beforehand. Generally, this is done through tour operators in the region. No special authorization is required to travel to the desert as far south as Remada.
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Tunisia Population & Demographics
Population of 12,277,109, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tunisia safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Tunisia at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). Cited risks include crime. The homicide rate of 4.7 per 100,000 is moderate by global standards.
What is the crime rate in Tunisia?
Tunisia has an intentional homicide rate of 4.7 per 100,000 people (2020, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #71 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Tunisia?
Tunisia is currently at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Tunisia compare to other countries?
Tunisia's homicide rate of 4.7 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Africa average of 7.6.