The Tunisian Consulate General in Dubai has announced that, effective October 26, 2026, a police clearance certificate, known as "بطاقة عدد 3" (number 3 card), will be required for all new work visa applications for Tunisian citizens in the United Arab Emirates. This new requirement is based on a decision by the UAE Cabinet, decree number 36/1 of 2026. The certificate must be issued by the relevant authorities in Tunisia and authenticated by the UAE Embassy in Tunis.
The new regulation applies to all Tunisian workers applying for new work visas in the UAE. Those already in the UAE on visit visas who have secured employment and wish to regularize their status will have 45 days from the date the decision comes into effect to complete the necessary procedures. The Tunisian Consulate in Dubai made the announcement through an official statement released on October 8, 2026.
The police clearance certificate, or "بطاقة عدد 3", is a document that confirms an individual's good conduct and behavior. It is typically issued by the relevant authorities in the applicant's home country. In this case, the certificate must be obtained by Tunisian citizens applying for work visas in the UAE.
The UAE has been tightening its regulations for foreign workers in recent years. This new requirement for a police clearance certificate is part of these efforts to enhance the screening process for foreign workers. The move aims to ensure that only eligible and suitable candidates are granted work visas in the country.
The Tunisian Consulate in Dubai has urged all Tunisian citizens planning to apply for work visas in the UAE to obtain the required police clearance certificate before submitting their applications. The consulate has also advised those already in the UAE on visit visas who have secured employment to take advantage of the 45-day period to regularize their status.
The new requirement for a police clearance certificate is expected to impact many Tunisian citizens who work in the UAE. The UAE is a popular destination for Tunisian workers, and this new regulation may affect the process of obtaining a work visa. However, the move is seen as a step towards ensuring a safer and more secure work environment in the UAE.
The Tunisian Consulate in Dubai has not provided further details on the application process for the police clearance certificate. However, it is expected that more information will be made available in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Tunisian citizens planning to apply for work visas in the UAE are advised to contact the consulate for guidance on the new requirements.
Key points
- The Tunisian Consulate in Dubai requires a police clearance certificate for all new work visa applications for Tunisian citizens in the UAE, effective October 26, 2026.
