Lebanon entry requirements for United Kingdom passport holders
Verified May 13, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
British passport holders get a free visa on arrival in Lebanon, valid for up to 30 days. This policy has been in place for years and continues in 2026. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of your stay | Your passport needs to be valid for the entire time you plan to stay in Lebanon. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires before you leave, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Visa on arrival Available at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport | British passport holders get a visa on arrival at Beirut airport. Pay the fee in cash (USD) at the bank counter before immigration — around $50 for a single-entry visa valid for 1 month. Have your passport photo ready.Check visa details | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at Beirut airport routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return flight or a ticket to your next destination ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended to carry | While not always checked, having a hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a host speeds up the immigration process. If staying with friends, ask them to write a simple invitation letter with their contact details. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended to carry | Carry enough cash (USD or EUR) for your stay — ATMs are unreliable and credit card acceptance is limited outside major hotels. A bank statement or credit card showing available funds helps if asked. | Recommended |
Passport validity is critical
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you enter Lebanon. Airlines check this before boarding — if you're short, you won't fly.
No visa fee for UK passport holders
The visa on arrival is free for British citizens. No need to pay anything at the airport.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport
After landing, follow signs to 'Passport Control' or 'Immigration'. There are separate queues for Lebanese nationals and foreigners. Join the foreigners queue.
2
Present documents at the visa-on-arrival counter
Hand over your passport, return ticket (printed or on phone), and accommodation confirmation. The officer will issue a visa sticker valid for up to 30 days. No fee is charged for British passport holders.
3
Proceed to passport control
After receiving the visa sticker, go to the passport control booth. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through. Collect your luggage and exit.
Download Lebanon Entry Checklist
PDF · United Kingdom Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 13, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
CostFree (USD 0)
Obtainable on arrival; extension possible at General Security offices.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months
CostFree (USD 0)
Not typically issued on arrival; apply at Lebanese embassy in advance.
Long-stay visa (residence permit)
Max stay1 year, renewable
Validity1 year
CostLBP 1,000,000 (~USD 667)
Requires sponsor (employer or family) and approval from General Security.
work visa
Lebanon Work Visa (Residence Permit)
1 year, renewable annually
LBP 1,000,000 (~USD 667) per year
For foreign employees with a Lebanese sponsor. Requires a work contract, employer approval, and medical check. Allows multiple entries.
student visa
Lebanon Student Visa
1 year, renewable based on course duration
LBP 500,000 (~USD 333) per year
For enrolled students at recognized Lebanese institutions. Requires acceptance letter, proof of funds, and health insurance.
investor visa
Lebanon Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
LBP 2,000,000 (~USD 1,333) initial fee
For individuals investing a minimum of $100,000 in a Lebanese business or real estate. Requires proof of investment and business plan.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (single entry)UK passport holders receive a free visa on arrival for up to 30 days. | Free (USD 0) |
| Overstay fine per dayApplies after visa expiry; no official cap but fines can accumulate. | LBP 50,000 (~USD 33) per day |
| Stay extension (if applicable)Extensions are not guaranteed; apply at General Security office before visa expires. | LBP 200,000 (~USD 133) for 30 days |
Common reasons for entry denial
No return ticket30%
Insufficient funds25%
Suspicious travel pattern20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Lebanon
No transit visa needed
UK passport holders transiting through Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport or staying overnight, a visa on arrival is required.
Transit hubsBeirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
Health & vaccines for Lebanon
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, influenza)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Common due to contaminated food/water; practice safe eating and drinking.
Mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., West Nile virus)Low risk
Low risk in urban areas; use repellent in rural or agricultural zones.
Air pollutionModerate risk
Beirut and industrial areas have poor air quality; those with respiratory issues should take precautions.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Beirut
General Security – Beirut Main Office
Adlieh, near the Ministry of Interior, Beirut
Mon–Fri 08:00–14:00
Handles visa extensions and residency permits; bring passport, photos, and fee.
Beirut
General Security – Rafic Hariri International Airport
Arrivals Hall, Beirut Airport
24/7
Issues visa on arrival; for urgent extension inquiries, visit main office.
Practical information for GB travellers
Country basics
CapitalBeirut
LanguageArabic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 3 months, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyLebanese pound (LBP)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 89,500 LBP
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,EType C (two round pins) and Type E (two round pins with a hole for the male earth pin)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No, you get a visa on arrival at Beirut airport. It's free for UK passport holders and valid for up to 30 days.
Up to 30 days. If you need longer, you can apply for an extension at the General Security office in Beirut, but it's not guaranteed.
Yes, there is no fee for UK passport holders. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
You will be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at the border. Renew your passport before travelling.
Extensions are possible but not automatic. Visit the General Security office in Beirut (near the airport) before your visa expires. The process takes a few days and costs around $50–100.
Yes, you need proof of onward travel. A bus or ferry ticket out of Lebanon works. Immigration may ask to see it.
The security situation can change quickly. Check the UK Foreign Office travel advice before booking. Avoid border areas and large gatherings.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 13, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.