Libya entry requirements for New Zealand passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 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.
Apply for Libya eVisaCheck current travel advisories before applying.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | You must obtain an eVisa from the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs before departure. Apply online at the official portal — processing times vary, so submit at least 2 weeks ahead. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport 6 months validity required | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Libya. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers in Libya routinely ask for proof of a return or onward flight. Have a printed itinerary or e-ticket ready — they may deny entry if you cannot show onward travel. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host letter | Carry a confirmed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your Libyan host. Immigration may ask where you are staying — having a printed booking avoids delays. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Cash or bank statement | Have at least 500 USD in cash or a recent bank statement showing sufficient funds. Libya is a cash-based economy — credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels. | 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 June 28, 2026
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
Cost~$50 USD
Standard eVisa option; must be used within validity period.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per visit, non-extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$100 USD
Allows multiple entries; suitable for frequent travellers.
work visa
Work Visa (Libya)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (employer-sponsored)
For those with a job offer from a Libyan employer. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from Ministry of Labour.
student visa
Student Visa (Libya)
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$100 USD
For enrolment in a recognised Libyan educational institution. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for New Zealand passport holders; subject to change. | ~$50 USD (equivalent in local currency) |
| Overstay fine per dayNo official cap known; avoid overstay. | ~$10 USD per day |
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 ticket within 24 hours.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid visa for Libya may transit without additional visa.
Transit hubsTripoli International Airport (TIP) · Benghati Benina International Airport (BEN)
Health & vaccines for Libya
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to poor sanitation; avoid tap water and street food.
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria)Moderate risk
Present in some areas; use insect repellent and sleep under nets.
Road traffic accidentsHigh risk
Poor road conditions and driving standards; exercise caution.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk exists in some rural areas; consider prophylaxis and mosquito avoidance.
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 Nationality
Tripoli, Libya
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00
Main office for visa extensions and residency matters.
Benghazi
Benghazi Immigration Office
Benghazi, Libya
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00
Handles visa issues 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 = 6.36 LYD
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
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 June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.