The Central Bank of Tunisia has set October 1, 2026, as the deadline for banks to launch digital platforms for receiving applications for interest-free loans. These platforms will be the exclusive means of submitting applications, ensuring a transparent and organized process. According to Sufian Al-Warimi, a banking expert, applicants will need to re-submit their applications through these digital platforms, even if they have previously submitted written requests.
The digital platforms will record the date and time of application submissions and provide applicants with a receipt. This system will enable the banks to prioritize applications based on their submission order. Al-Warimi noted that applicants will not be required to attach documents during the initial registration process; instead, they will be requested later if the application is approved.
The eligibility criteria for these loans include the applicant's ability to repay the loan, which will be assessed by the banks. Al-Warimi emphasized that this assessment will not rely on collateral but rather on the applicant's financial capacity to repay the loan. According to Law No. 148 of 2026, the loan repayment period will not exceed two years, with a possible six-month grace period.
Only banks that reported profits in 2025 will be participating in this program. Al-Warimi advised applicants to verify the financial situation of the banks through their official websites or the Financial Market Authority's website. He also warned against clicking on unofficial links or platforms to avoid scams.
Most participating banks have prepared explanatory videos on their websites, detailing the loan application process. These loans are part of the implementation of Law No. 41 of 2024, which allocates a portion of bank profits to fund interest-free loans. The loans will be capped at 5,000 dinars for individuals, 10,000 dinars for small projects, and 25,000 dinars for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The Central Bank of Tunisia issued a circular to banks on September 1, 2026, outlining the regulatory framework for interest-free loan applications. The circular requires banks to create a digital platform for exclusive application submissions, ensuring that each application is timestamped and receipted.
The interest-free loans will be granted without study fees or commissions, subject to eligibility criteria and the applicant's repayment capacity. The applications will be processed based on their submission order, ensuring equal treatment of applicants.
Key points
- The digital platforms for interest-free loan applications will be launched on October 1, 2026.
- Only banks that reported profits in 2025 will be participating in the program.
- The loans will be capped at 5,000 dinars for individuals, 10,000 dinars for small projects, and 25,000 dinars for small and medium-sized enterprises.
