Libya entry requirements for New Zealand passport holders

Verified May 14, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
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

New Zealand passport holders need an eVisa to enter Libya in 2025. You must arrange it before you travel — there are no visa-on-arrival options for NZ citizens. Apply early, as processing can take several weeks.

Entry requirements

RequirementDetailsStatus
eVisa application
Apply before travel
You need an eVisa to enter Libya. Apply through the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal at mfa.gov.ly. Processing times vary — submit at least 2 weeks before your trip.Apply for eVisaRequired
Valid passport
6 months validity required
Your New Zealand passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Libya. Carry a photocopy of the bio page separately.Required
Return or onward ticket
Required for entry
Immigration officers at Tripoli and Benghazi airports check for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy of your itinerary ready.Required
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or host letter
Libyan immigration may ask for a hotel reservation or a letter from your host. Keep a printed confirmation with the address and contact number.Recommended
Proof of funds
Cash or bank statement
Officers can request evidence you have enough money for your stay. Carry at least USD 500 in cash or a recent bank statement showing sufficient balance.Recommended
Security situation in Libya
Libya has ongoing security risks. Check your government's travel advisories before booking. Many countries advise against all travel to certain regions. Travel insurance may not cover claims in high-risk areas — verify your policy.
eVisa application portal
As of 2025, the official Libyan eVisa portal may not be fully operational for all nationalities. If you cannot apply online, contact the Libyan embassy in Wellington or the nearest Libyan consulate for instructions.

What happens at the border

1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the Libyan eVisa portal (if available) or contact the nearest Libyan embassy. Complete the application form, upload your passport scan and a passport-style photo, and pay the fee. Processing can take 2–4 weeks, so apply well in advance.
2
Receive and print your eVisa
Once approved, you'll receive an eVisa document by email. Print at least two copies — one for immigration and one as backup. Also save a PDF on your phone.
3
Arrive at a Libyan airport
Most flights arrive at Tripoli International Airport (TIP) or Benghazi (BEN). Go to the immigration queue for 'eVisa' or 'Foreign Passports'. Hand over your passport, printed eVisa, and return ticket. You may be asked for your accommodation address.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After the immigration officer stamps your passport, collect your bags from the carousel and proceed through customs. Keep your passport and eVisa copy handy until you're outside the arrivals hall.
Download Libya Entry Checklist
PDF · New Zealand Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 14, 2026
Download PDF

Staying longer & fees

Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:

Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, non-extendable
Validity3 months from issue
CostUSD 50 (USD 50)

Standard eVisa for tourism.

Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, non-extendable
Validity6 months from issue
CostUSD 100 (USD 100)

For frequent visitors.

Other fees
ServiceCost
eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for New Zealand passport holders.USD 50 (USD 50)
eVisa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period.USD 100 (USD 100)
Overstay fine per dayCharged per day overstay, no cap specified.USD 10 (USD 10)

Common reasons for entry denial

Incomplete visa application30%
No return ticket25%
Insufficient funds20%

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 Libya

Transit visa required

New Zealand passport holders transiting through Libya require a transit visa unless they remain airside and have a confirmed onward flight within 24 hours.

Exceptions & conditions
  • Holders of a valid visa for Libya may transit without additional visa.
Transit hubsTripoli International Airport (TIP) · Benina International Airport (BEN)

Health & vaccines for Libya

Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)Essential
Health risks
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk

Common due to poor sanitation; avoid tap water and street food.

Mosquito-borne diseasesModerate risk

Risk of malaria and dengue in some areas; use repellent and nets.

Road traffic accidentsHigh risk

Poor road conditions and driving standards pose significant risk.

Malaria risk: moderate

Risk present in rural areas, especially in the south; prophylaxis recommended for those areas.

Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.

Immigration offices for extensions

Tripoli
Department of Passports and Immigration
Al-Shatt Street, Tripoli
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00

Main office for visa extensions and inquiries.

Benghazi
Benghazi Immigration Office
Al-Fadeel Street, Benghazi
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00

Handles visa-related matters in eastern Libya.

Practical information for NZ travellers

Country basics
CapitalTripoli
LanguageArabic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyLibyan dinar (LYD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 6.31 LYD
updated May 13
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C, LType C (two round pins) and Type L (three round pins) are used.
⚠ 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
Police1515
Medical193
US EmbassyFind contact

Frequently asked questions

Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks, but can sometimes take longer. Apply at least 6 weeks before your planned departure to be safe.
No. New Zealand passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel.
The fee varies depending on the embassy or portal you use. Expect to pay around USD 100–150. Check with the Libyan embassy in your region for the exact amount.
You will not be allowed to enter Libya. Renew your passport first, then apply for the eVisa with the new passport.
Yes, immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return or onward ticket ready.
Not officially required for entry, but strongly recommended. Medical care in Libya can be expensive and limited. Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
The eVisa does not allow extensions. If you need to stay longer, you must leave the country and apply for a new visa from abroad.

Official sources

Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 14, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.