A study carried out by the Association of Tunisians graduated from French Grandes Ecoles highlights a relative but significant interest in Tunisian skills established abroad for a return to the country. According to this survey, 20% of Tunisians residing outside Tunisia are considering a permanent return, among whom 24% say they want to return mainly to invest.
Speaking this Tuesday, December 23, 2025 on National Radio, association member Walid Belhaj specified that the study also shows that 59% of Tunisians abroad do not plan a definitive return, while 21% consider this option as a long-term project.
For his part, migration expert Hatem Zayedi indicated that the study identifies several levers likely to encourage the return of Tunisian skills established abroad. Among these incentives are the digitalization of services, the simplification of procedures for obtaining investment authorizations as well as the creation of a one-stop shop dedicated to Tunisians residing abroad.
Investment potential
He also stressed that this category is not limited to investors carrying concrete projects, but also has financial capacities, investment potential and expertise that can support project leaders in Tunisia. Hence, according to him, the need to expand and strengthen financing mechanisms in order to better mobilize this strategic resource.
Note that this study, carried out among 100,000 Tunisians living abroad, was presented during a workshop devoted to evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed measures and the means of their implementation, with the aim of making the Tunisian diaspora a central actor in the economic and social development of the country.
