Syria entry requirements for Russia 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
Russian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Syria. The eVisa system launched in 2023 and is the standard way to get permission to travel. You must apply online before your trip — there is no visa on arrival for Russians.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for a Syrian tourist eVisa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal. Processing takes 3–5 business days. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport — border officers will check it before issuing the entry stamp.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for entire stay | Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay in Syria. No minimum validity beyond departure is required by law, but airlines may enforce a 6-month rule — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure | Immigration officers at Damascus and Aleppo airports routinely ask for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy or a digital version on your phone ready to show. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your Syrian host. Officers may ask where you're staying, especially if you're arriving without a pre-arranged tour. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Cash or bank statement | Have at least $500 USD in cash or a recent bank statement showing sufficient funds. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels, so bring enough US dollars or euros for your stay. | Recommended |
Security situation is unstable
Syria is an active conflict zone. Many governments advise against all travel. If you decide to go, register with your embassy, have a contingency plan, and avoid areas near the frontlines.
eVisa is the only option
There is no visa on arrival for Russian passport holders. Do not show up at the airport without an approved eVisa — you will be sent back.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Syrian eVisa website (if available) or use a trusted visa service. Fill in your personal details, upload a passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee (typically around $50–$100 USD depending on nationality). Processing takes 3–7 business days.
2
Receive and print your eVisa approval
Once approved, you'll get an email with a PDF or confirmation number. Print a copy and also save it on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and at Syrian immigration.
3
Prepare your documents for departure
Before heading to the airport, gather: passport (6+ months validity), printed eVisa, return ticket, hotel booking confirmation, and travel insurance details. Keep them in your carry-on.
4
Arrive at Damascus International Airport
Most flights from Russia land at Damascus International Airport (DAM). After deplaning, follow signs to 'Passport Control' or 'Immigration'. Have your passport, eVisa, and return ticket ready. The officer will stamp your passport — no additional forms needed.
5
Collect luggage and exit
After immigration, proceed to baggage claim. Then walk through customs (green channel for most tourists). If asked, you may need to show your hotel booking. Exit into the arrivals hall.
Download Syria Entry Checklist
PDF · Russia 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, extendable 15 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$50 USD (approx. 3,500 RUB)
Apply at Syrian embassy or consulate; requires sponsor or hotel invitation.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months
Cost~$100 USD (approx. 7,000 RUB)
Allows multiple entries; same conditions as single entry.
Business visa
Max stay30 days, extendable
Validity3 months
Cost~$80 USD (approx. 5,600 RUB)
Requires invitation from Syrian company or organization.
work visa
Work Visa (Syria)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 14,000 RUB) plus fees
For foreign workers with a Syrian employer sponsor. Requires work permit approval and valid contract.
student visa
Student Visa (Syria)
1 year, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. 7,000 RUB) plus tuition
For enrolled students at Syrian universities or institutes. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Visa (Syria)
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 35,000 RUB) plus investment
For individuals investing in Syrian businesses or real estate. Minimum investment amount varies.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for Russian passport holders applying online. | ~$50 USD (approx. 3,500 RUB) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day beyond authorized stay; no maximum cap reported. | ~$10 USD per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete or expired documents30%
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 Syria
Transit visa required
Russian passport holders generally need a transit visa to change planes in Syria, even if staying airside. Check with the airline for specific requirements.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports may be exempt.
- Some airlines may arrange transit without visa for very short connections; confirm in advance.
Transit hubsDamascus International Airport (DAM) · Aleppo International Airport (ALP)
Health & vaccines for Syria
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)RecommendedHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, leishmaniasis)Moderate risk
Present in some areas; use insect repellent and mosquito nets.
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to poor sanitation; drink bottled water and eat thoroughly cooked food.
COVID-19Moderate risk
Ongoing risk; follow local guidelines and consider vaccination.
Malaria risk: low
Low risk in most areas; prophylaxis not routinely recommended but consider for rural travel.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Damascus
Directorate of Immigration and Passports
Al-Mazraa, Damascus, Syria
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Main office for visa extensions and residency matters; bring passport, visa, and sponsor letter.
Aleppo
Aleppo Immigration Office
Al-Aziziyah, Aleppo, Syria
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Handles extensions and permits; expect delays due to security situation.
Practical information for RU travellers
Country basics
CapitalDamascus
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
CurrencySyrian pound (SYP)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 112.99 SYP
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,E,LTypes C (Europlug), E (French), and L (Italian) 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
Yes. Russians must get an eVisa before traveling. There is no visa on arrival. Apply online at least a week before your trip.
Typically 3–7 business days. Apply at least 10 days before your departure to be safe. Processing times can vary, especially during holidays.
The official eVisa fee is around $50–$100 USD depending on the type (single entry vs multiple entry). Some visa services add a service fee. Pay online by credit card.
No. The eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need more time, you'd have to exit and re-enter with a new visa.
You will be denied boarding. Renew your passport first, then apply for the eVisa. The 6-month validity is strictly enforced.
Yes. Immigration wants proof you will leave Syria. A bus or train ticket to a neighboring country works, but a flight booking is the safest option.
The security situation is volatile. Check your government's travel advisories before booking. Many countries advise against all travel to Syria. If you do go, have a solid plan and emergency contacts.
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.