Lebanon

πŸ‡±πŸ‡§

Phone Code

+961

Capital

Beirut

Population

6.8 Million

Native Name

Ω„Ψ¨Ω†Ψ§Ω†

Region

Asia

Western Asia

Timezone

Eastern European Time

UTC+02:00

On This Page

Money & CurrencyVisa OverviewVisa TypesImportant NotesCitiesEmbassies abroadEmbassies in country

Lebanon is a small Middle Eastern country on the Mediterranean coast, known for ancient history, diverse religious communities, vibrant culture, cedar forests, French colonial influence, and complex political situation. Beirut, the capital, was once called the 'Paris of the Middle East' for its cosmopolitan culture, nightlife, and architecture, though it has faced significant challenges from civil war (1975-1990) and recent crises. Lebanon is one of the most diverse countries in the Middle East with 18 officially recognized religious sects. IMPORTANT: Lebanon faces ongoing economic crisis, political instability, and security concerns - check current travel advisories before planning travel. Visitors are drawn to Beirut's reconstructed downtown and nightlife, Baalbek Roman ruins (UNESCO), Byblos ancient Phoenician city (one of world's oldest continuously inhabited), Jeita Grotto limestone caves, Cedars of God forest (UNESCO), Tripoli's crusader castle and souqs, Tyre Roman hippodrome (UNESCO), Qadisha Valley monasteries (UNESCO), Lebanese cuisine (mezze, kibbeh), and Mediterranean beaches. Lebanon offers rich history and culture, though travel requires careful planning due to current situation.

Visa Requirements for Lebanon

CRITICAL: Due to ongoing economic crisis, political instability, and security concerns, most governments advise against all or all but essential travel to Lebanon. Check current advisories before any travel plans. For those who do travel: Lebanon offers visa on arrival for most nationalities at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport and land borders. Many nationalities (including US, UK, most EU countries, Australia, Canada, etc.) receive FREE visa on arrival for 30 days (previously charged). Some nationalities pay fees ranging from $50-200 USD depending on passport. Entry is DENIED to anyone with Israeli stamps in passport or evidence of Israel travel. Palestinian refugees and some nationalities require advance visa approval. Visa policies can change frequently due to political situation. The Lebanese pound has collapsed (90%+ devaluation since 2019), creating dual exchange rate system. Cash USD essential. Lebanon's visa system is relatively straightforward when operational, but overall travel situation is highly complex and unstable.

Common Visa Types

Free Visa on Arrival

30 days (sometimes 90 days depending on nationality and discretion); free visa stamp at airport or border; passport valid 6 months required; no Israeli stamps; return ticket advisable; previously charged $50+ but now free for many due to currency crisis.

For citizens of many countries including US, UK, most EU, Canada, Australia, Gulf states for tourism.

Paid Visa on Arrival

1-3 months depending on nationality; costs $50-200 USD (fees vary widely by nationality); available at Beirut Airport; passport valid 6 months; hotel booking; return ticket; no Israeli connections; cash USD payment.

For nationalities not eligible for free visa but allowed entry with payment at border.

Embassy Visa (Advance Approval Required)

Varies; requires sponsorship or approval from General Security in Lebanon before travel; apply through Lebanese embassy with sponsor letter; processing unpredictable; some nationalities (Bangladesh, Pakistan, etc.) need advance approval.

For nationalities requiring advance approval or certain circumstances like Palestinian refugees.

Visa Extension

Extensions possible through General Security office in Beirut; apply before visa expires; requires passport, fees (USD cash), sponsor or hotel letter; bureaucratic process; can extend up to 3 months typically.

For visitors wishing to extend stay beyond initial visa on arrival period.

Important Travel Information

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: Most governments (US, UK, Australia, Canada) advise against all travel or all but essential travel to Lebanon due to terrorism risk, civil unrest, armed conflict near borders, and deteriorating security. Situation highly unpredictable. Reconsider travel seriously.

Economic crisis: Lebanon experiencing severe economic collapse since 2019. Currency devalued 90%+. Banking system restricted. Electricity blackouts. Fuel shortages. Medicine shortages. Infrastructure deteriorating. Cash USD essential - bring enough for entire trip. ATMs don't work reliably. Credit cards often don't work.

Israeli connections DENIED: Any Israeli stamps, Israeli visa, or evidence of Israel travel (even land border stamps from Jordan/Egypt entering Israel) results in entry denial. Lebanon technically at war with Israel. Do not mention Israel travel.

Cities with missions

Where this country maintains embassies or consulates

Beirut
States & Regions in Lebanon

Explore different regions and their cities.

Hosted missions

Embassies in Lebanon

These foreign embassies and consulates are based here. Choose a mission to open its in-depth guide and contact details.

Key origin countries

United Kingdom in Lebanon
United States in Lebanon

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Planning Lebanon travel?

Check current advisories