Processing Time: 6-10 weeks | Embassy Location: Beijing | Last Updated: June 2025
Whether you’re applying for your first Tunisian passport, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost/damaged passport while living in China, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process with the Tunisian Embassy in Beijing.
Disclaimer: This guide is based on current embassy requirements and may change. Always verify requirements directly with the Tunisian Embassy in Beijing before submitting your application.
Quick Overview
Who can apply: Tunisian citizens residing in China
Where to apply: Tunisian Embassy in Beijing (applications accepted by mail from other cities)
Processing time: 6-10 weeks from submission
Appointment required: No (walk-in applications accepted during consular hours)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Determine Your Application Type
First-time passport: For Tunisian citizens who have never held a passport
Renewal: For existing passport holders whose passport is expiring or has expired
Replacement: For lost, stolen, or damaged passports
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Documents Required for ALL Applications
- Completed Passport Application Form
- Must be filled in both Arabic and French
- Include your Chinese address in English
- Download form here
- Identity Photos (4 photos)
- Must meet Tunisian passport photo requirements
- Recent photos (taken within last 6 months)
- Copy of Tunisian National ID Card
- Both front and back sides on A4 paper
- For adults only
- Copy of Consular Card
- If you don’t have one, apply here first
- Proof of Legal Residence in China
- Copy of valid residence permit OR permanent residence ID card
- Status Documentation
- For workers: Employment certificate from your employer
- For students: Letter of enrollment from your educational institution
Additional Documents by Application Type
For Renewals:
- Original old passport
- Color photocopy of all 32 pages of current passport
- Return request form (to keep old passport)
For Replacements:
- Police report for lost/stolen passport OR damaged original passport
- Certificate of loss declaration
For Minors (under 18):
- Birth certificate
- Copy of Tunisian parent’s National ID card and passport ID page
- Signed parental authorization from the father
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Important form completion tips:
- Fill out the form in both Arabic and French completely
- Write your Chinese address in English in the designated field
- For parents applying for minors: Sign next to the signature box, NOT inside it
- Double-check all information matches your supporting documents exactly
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Option 1: In-Person Submission (Beijing residents)
- Location: Tunisian Embassy, Beijing
- Hours: Check current consular hours
- What to bring: All original documents plus copies, completed application form, consular fee
Option 2: Mail Submission (Outside Beijing)
- Address: Get mailing address here
- What to include: All required documents, completed application form, prepaid return envelope
- Packaging: Use registered mail with tracking for security
Step 5: Pay Consular Fees
Payment methods: Cash in person for Beijing residents or in a sealed envelope if you are not residing in Beijing
Current fees: View official fee schedule
Step 6: Collect Your New Passport
- Notification: Embassy will contact you when ready (6-10 weeks)
- What you’ll receive: New passport + verification letter confirming old and new passport belong to same person (upon request)
- Collection: In-person pickup (ID verification) or by registered mail
Important Notes and Special Situations
⚠️ Critical Renewal Timing
Renew your passport BEFORE it has less than 6 months validity remaining.
Many countries require at least 6 months of passport validity for entry, and some airlines may refuse boarding with passports nearing expiration.
Important processing detail
The embassy submits all passport renewal requests in batches via diplomatic bag at the end of each month to Tunisia.
This means your application timing within the month significantly affects processing time.
Applications submitted early in the month may wait up to 4 weeks just to be sent to Tunisia, plus 4-6 weeks for processing there.
Start your renewal process when your passport has 10-12 months remaining to ensure you receive your new passport well before the 6-month validity threshold.
Career Changes
If your occupation has changed since receiving your National ID card (e.g., from student to employed), you can still apply for passport renewal.
However, you must update your National ID card when you next return to Tunisia. Learn how to update your ID card.
Emergency Situations
For urgent travel needs, contact the embassy directly to inquire about expedited processing options.
Document Validity
Ensure all supporting documents are current and valid.
Expired residence permits or employment certificates may delay processing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Application rejected?
- Check that all forms are completed in both Arabic and French
- Verify photo requirements are met exactly
- Ensure all required documents are included
Documents in Chinese?
- Some documents may need official translation
- Contact the embassy for specific translation requirements
Can’t get to Beijing?
- Mail applications are fully accepted
- Use registered mail with tracking
- Include prepaid return envelope for passport delivery
Contact Information
Tunisian Embassy Beijing
Address: Get full address and directions
Consular Hours: Check current hours
Quick Reference Checklist
Print this checklist and check off items as you prepare:
Essential Documents (All Applications):
- [ ] Completed application form (Arabic & French)
- [ ] 4 passport photos (correct specifications)
- [ ] Copy of National ID card (front & back)
- [ ] Copy of consular card
- [ ] Copy of residence permit/permanent residence ID
- [ ] Employment certificate OR enrollment letter
Additional for Renewals:
- [ ] Original old passport
- [ ] Color copies of all 32 pages
- [ ] Return request form
Additional for Replacements:
- [ ] Police report OR damaged passport
- [ ] Loss certificate
Additional for Minors:
- [ ] Birth certificate
- [ ] Parent’s ID and passport copies
- [ ] Signed parental authorization
Before Submission:
- [ ] All forms completed correctly
- [ ] Payment method prepared
- [ ] Return envelope (if mailing)
- [ ] Copies of all documents for your records
