Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT) Introduces New Procedure for Foreign Exchange Operations
The Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT) has published a circular outlining the conditions, modalities, and procedures for submitting and processing foreign exchange operation authorization requests remotely.
Key Points of the Circular
- The circular allows natural and legal persons to submit authorization requests via a secure digital platform (https://exop.bct.gov.tn), managed by the BCT.
- According to Article 3, applicants must fill out the designated form on the platform and upload the required documents and supporting evidence. The BCT may request additional information or documents via the same platform to facilitate decision-making.
- The BCT's decisions will be issued in the form of an "authorization" for foreign exchange operations that do not involve transferring funds abroad or to non-residents in Tunisia, or an "authorization for transfer" for operations that involve transferring funds from Tunisia to abroad or to non-residents in Tunisia.
Notification and Validation of Decisions
- The circular states that the BCT's decisions will be notified to the applicant via the digital platform in the form of a certified electronic document bearing a quick response (QR) code approved by the National Agency for Electronic Certification.
- The document, which remains valid for two months from the date of authorization, can be downloaded and printed by the beneficiary.
Transition Period and Future Requirements
- According to Article 7, applicants for foreign exchange operations can submit their requests via the digital platform, the BCT's central order office, or one of its branches, or through the data exchange system (SED) for approved intermediaries until December 31, 2025.
- From January 1, 2026, only authorization requests submitted via the digital platform will be accepted.
