Libya Visa Requirements
For ๐ช๐ธ Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders must apply for a visa at a Libya embassy or consulate before traveling.
Spanish citizens require a visa to enter Libya. Due to ongoing conflict, political instability, terrorism, and kidnapping risk, all travel to Libya is strongly advised against by most governments.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, visa obtained in advance with letter of invitation, Arabic translation of passport pages.
Serious consequences possible in the current chaotic environment.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Libya has been in civil conflict since the 2011 revolution that overthrew Gaddafi. Multiple armed factions compete for control. Kidnapping of foreigners, terrorism, and armed violence are significant risks. Tripoli and major cities have varying degrees of control. Most governments advise against all travel.
Money & Costs
Currency
ู.ุฏ Libyan Dinar (LYD)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $60 ยท Mid: $120 ยท Luxury: $250+
Tipping
Not a primary concern given current situation.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, L, 230V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
No reliable emergency services.
Getting There
Main Airports
Benghazi (BEN) ยท Tripoli (MJI)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
If travel were safe, the best time would be October to April when temperatures are mild. Summers are extremely hot (40ยฐC+). However, the security situation makes all travel inadvisable regardless of weather.
Cultural Notes
Libya has a rich history from ancient Phoenician and Roman times through Ottoman rule. The Roman ruins at Leptis Magna are among the Mediterranean's finest. Libyan culture blends Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean influences. Traditional crafts and desert Tuareg culture are significant. The Gaddafi era (1969-2011) shaped modern Libya.
Insider Tips
Arabic is the official language. The Libyan Dinar is the currency. Tourism has essentially ceased. The country has remarkable Roman ruins at Leptis Magna and Sabratha that were world-class attractions before the conflict. Anyone considering travel should have professional security arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel to Libya?
No. Libya has been in conflict since 2011 with multiple armed factions vying for control. Kidnapping, terrorism, armed violence, and lawlessness are widespread. Most governments advise against all travel. The situation fluctuates between unstable periods and active conflict. Do not travel to Libya.
What were the Roman ruins like in Libya?
Before the conflict, Libya had three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Leptis Magna (one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world), Sabratha (with its stunning theater), and Cyrene (ancient Greek and Roman ruins). Ghadames oasis was another UNESCO site. These were remarkable attractions that rivaled Rome itself for quality of preservation.
What is the current political situation in Libya?
Libya has rival governments and numerous armed groups competing for control since 2011. The UN-recognized Government of National Accord in Tripoli and the Libyan National Army based in the east have fought for supremacy. Ceasefires have come and gone. Various militias control different territories. A stable unified government remains elusive.
Why did Libya become unstable?
The 2011 Arab Spring led to an uprising against Muammar Gaddafi who had ruled since 1969. NATO intervention helped rebels overthrow Gaddafi. However, the country fractured along tribal and regional lines. No strong central authority emerged, and various armed groups filled the vacuum. The conflict has persisted for over a decade.
Can oil workers or businesspeople travel to Libya?
Some oil company personnel and businesspeople do operate in Libya with extensive security measures provided by their organizations. This includes armed escorts, secure compounds, and evacuation plans. Individual or tourist travel is completely inadvisable. Even with security support, incidents affecting foreign personnel occur.