Lebanon Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders
British passport holders can technically obtain a free visa on arrival in Lebanon for up to 30 days. However, the UK FCDO advises against all travel to Lebanon due to active conflict, instability, and the risk of sudden escalation. The situation in Lebanon has deteriorated significantly in recent years.
United Kingdom passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Lebanon ports of entry.
The UK FCDO advises against all travel to Lebanon. If you choose to travel against this advice, the free visa on arrival is available to British nationals at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut. Carry your UK passport and return ticket. Note that entry may be denied if there is evidence of travel to Israel in your passport.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
United Kingdom to Lebanon: What You Need to Know
Lebanon has faced a combination of economic collapse, civil unrest, and active military conflict near its southern and eastern borders. The FCDO advises against all travel due to the unpredictable security situation and the limited capacity of the British Embassy in Beirut to assist British nationals in an emergency. Commercial flights may be suspended at short notice.
Practical Tips
If travelling despite FCDO advice: the Lebanese pound (LBP) has suffered extreme devaluation; USD cash is the functional currency for most transactions. Keep an emergency exit plan and stay in close contact with the British Embassy in Beirut. Avoid the southern region near the Israeli border, the Bekaa Valley near the Syrian border, and Palestinian refugee camps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel to Lebanon as a UK citizen?
No. The UK FCDO advises against all travel to Lebanon due to active military conflict, political instability, and the risk of sudden escalation. Commercial flights may be suspended at short notice and the British Embassy in Beirut has limited capacity to assist British nationals in an emergency.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Lebanon?
British passport holders can technically obtain a free visa on arrival in Lebanon for up to 30 days. However, the UK FCDO advises against all travel. Entry can be refused if your passport contains evidence of travel to Israel. If you travel against FCDO advice, carry your UK passport and return ticket.
Will I be denied entry to Lebanon if I have an Israeli stamp?
Potentially yes. Lebanon does not recognise Israel and border officers may deny entry to travellers with Israeli passport stamps or entry/exit stamps from Israeli land borders. If you have visited Israel, ask Israeli officials to stamp a separate document rather than your passport, or consider renewing your passport before travelling to Lebanon.
What currency is used in Lebanon?
Lebanon has undergone severe currency collapse. The Lebanese pound (LBP) has lost most of its value and the US dollar has become the functional currency for most transactions, businesses, and even some utility bills. Carry USD cash; UK bank cards may not work reliably at ATMs.