Libya entry requirements for Portugal passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 17, 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
Portuguese passport holders must obtain an eVisa before traveling to Libya. There is no visa-on-arrival option. Since 2024, the eVisa has been the only way to get a tourist visa for Libya.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Libya eVisa | Apply for a Libya eVisa before travel through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal. Processing takes several business days — do not book flights until approved. The eVisa is single-entry only and not extendable.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Portugal passport | 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 Proof of departure | Immigration officers at Libyan airports routinely ask for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy or digital booking ready — they may check the date matches your visa validity. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host letter | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter from your host in Libya. Officers at Tripoli and Benghazi airports sometimes ask for this during secondary checks. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Bank statement or cash | Have a recent bank statement or enough cash (around $500 USD equivalent) to cover your stay. Immigration may ask how you plan to support yourself, especially if you have no local sponsor. | Recommended |
Security situation
Libya remains a high-risk destination. Many governments advise against all travel. If you decide to go, register with your embassy, have a solid plan, and ensure your insurance covers security-related evacuations.
eVisa is mandatory
There is no visa-on-arrival for Portuguese passport holders. You must have an approved eVisa before you fly. Airlines will check this at check-in.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Libyan eVisa website and fill out the application. You'll need a digital photo, passport scan, and travel details. Processing usually takes 3-7 business days. Pay the fee online with a credit card.
2
Receive and print your eVisa
Once approved, you'll get the eVisa by email. Print a paper copy and also save a PDF on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and on arrival.
3
Arrive at a Libyan airport
Most international flights arrive at Tripoli's Mitiga Airport or Benghazi's Benina Airport. After landing, follow signs to passport control. Have your passport, eVisa printout, and return ticket ready.
4
Pass through immigration
Hand over your passport and eVisa. The officer may ask about your accommodation and purpose of visit. Answer clearly. They'll stamp your passport and you're in.
Download Libya Entry Checklist
PDF · Portugal Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 17, 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 (approx. €45)
Standard option for short visits.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, up to 90 days total
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$100 USD (approx. €90)
Allows multiple entries for business or tourism.
Business visa
Max stay30 days, extendable once
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$80 USD (approx. €72)
Requires invitation letter from Libyan company.
work visa
Libya Work Visa
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. €180) + employer sponsorship
For foreign workers with a job offer from a Libyan employer. Requires labor ministry approval and health check.
student visa
Libya Student Visa
1 year, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. €90) + university enrollment
For students enrolled in a recognized Libyan university. Requires proof of admission and financial support.
investor visa
Libya Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. €450) + investment proof
For individuals investing in Libyan businesses or real estate. Minimum investment varies.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa processing feeStandard fee for single-entry tourist eVisa. | ~$50 USD (approx. €45) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)Valid for 30 days, non-extendable. | ~$50 USD (approx. €45) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Valid for 90 days, max stay 30 days per entry. | ~$100 USD (approx. €90) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged daily for overstaying visa validity. | ~$10 USD (approx. €9) |
| Overstay fine maximum capMaximum cumulative fine for overstay. | ~$300 USD (approx. €270) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete or expired documents30%
Suspicious travel pattern25%
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
A transit visa is required for Portugal passport holders transiting through Libya, even if staying airside. Apply before travel.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports may be exempt.
Transit hubsTripoli International Airport (TIP) · Benghazi Benina International Airport (BEN) · Misrata Airport (MRA)
Health & vaccines for Libya
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaModerate risk
Present in some areas, especially rural; prophylaxis recommended.
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to poor sanitation; avoid tap water and street food.
Dengue feverLow risk
Occasional outbreaks in urban areas; use mosquito repellent.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk exists in rural areas, especially in the south. Prophylaxis recommended for travelers to those regions.
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 residency permits.
Benghazi
Benghazi Immigration Office
Al-Fuwayhat, Benghazi
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00
Handles visa issues in eastern Libya.
Practical information for PT 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 = 6.35 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 usually takes 3 to 7 business days. Apply at least two weeks before your trip to be safe. There is no expedited option.
The eVisa fee varies depending on nationality and processing time. For Portuguese passport holders, it's typically around 50-80 USD. You pay online by credit card.
No. The eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need to stay longer, you'd have to apply for a new visa from outside the country.
Yes. Even for transit, you need a visa. There is no transit exemption for Portuguese passport holders. You must have an eVisa or a transit visa arranged in advance.
You will be denied boarding and entry. Renew your passport first, then apply for the eVisa. The 6-month rule is strictly enforced.
Many governments advise against all travel to Libya due to ongoing security risks. Check your foreign ministry's travel advisory before booking. If you do go, travel insurance with security evacuation coverage is essential.
No. You must have a printed copy of your eVisa. Digital copies on your phone are not accepted at check-in or immigration. Print at least two copies.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 17, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.