Lebanon Imposes 'Unprecedented' Visa Rules on Syrians

Syrians travelling to Lebanon are now required to apply for a visa as part of the government’s measures aiming to restrict refugees’ entry given the mounting crisis that has put immense pressure on the country.  

The unprecedented measure will come into force starting January 5, Al-Rai newspaper reported.

According to a circular issued by General Security, the purpose of the travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required, listing six different nonimmigrant visa categories.

-         Visitor visa

Visitor visas are granted to people who want to enter Lebanon temporarily for business, tourism or a combination of both purposes.

The applicant, who wishes to visit Lebanon for pleasure and vacation, will be required to submit several documents including a proof of a hotel reservation as well as an amount of money that is equal to $1000.

Those who wish to apply for a business visa must provide a document proving their title.

-         Student visa

Syrians who wish to pursue their academic studies in Lebanon would be first granted a seven-day permit that would allow them to apply for local universities.

Once they provide Lebanese authorities with a document proving the university’s admission approval, applicants would be granted a student visa.

-         Transit visa

Transit visas are granted to people traveling in immediate and continuous transit through Lebanon en route to another country.

Applicants will be required to submit a valid visa to the country of destination as well as their travel ticket with confirmed departure date. Once granted the transit visa, the applicant will have to leave Lebanon within 48 hours.

-         Visitor visa for medical treatment

Applicants seeking medical treatment in Lebanon should present evidence to help establish their eligibility for a renewable 72-hour visa.

The applicant must provide documents stating the diagnosis of his/her condition as well as a statement from the physician or institution accepting him/her for the proposed medical treatment.

-         Short-stay visa

People seeking to consult a foreign embassy in Lebanon are required to submit a document proving their confirmed appointment. Accordingly, a 48-hour permit would be granted to the applicant.

-         Other categories of incoming travelers

A four-day permit can also be granted to Syrian nationals who require a visa but their travel purpose does not apply to any of the above-mentioned categories.

This visa can be renewed twice for a six-month period of time.

The applicant will not be granted access to Lebanon unless he/she presents a statement of commitment provided by a Lebanese host.