Deep breath. Here's the answer.

US citizens require a visa to enter Lebanon for tourism and must apply for it in advance. However, the US State Department has issued a 'Do Not Travel' advisory for Lebanon due to significant safety and security risks, including crime, terrorism, unrest, and kidnapping. Furthermore, any indication of prior travel to Israel on your passport will deny entry and may lead to detention.

Key facts

For United States passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

You may need a visa if…

• The U.S. State Department strongly advises against all travel to Lebanon due to extreme risks (Level 4 - Do Not Travel).
• Any Israeli stamps or visas in your passport will result in denied entry to Lebanon and potential arrest or detention.
• The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Lebanon due to safety risks.
• Landmines and unexploded ordnance are present throughout Lebanon, particularly near the Syrian border, south of the Litani river, and in refugee settlements.
• Hostilities, drone, and missile strikes can occur throughout Lebanon, including Beirut, and can disrupt commercial flights.
• U.S. Embassy personnel and family members are restricted from personal travel throughout Lebanon without advance permission and cannot join employees working there.

Before you travel

• ✓Apply for a tourist visa through the Embassy of Lebanon in the United States well in advance of your planned travel.
• ✓Ensure your passport does not contain any Israeli stamps or visas and is valid for at least 90 days beyond your arrival date.
• ✓Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. State Department.
• ✓Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help.
• ✓Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers evacuation and trip cancellation, given the 'Do Not Travel' advisory.
• ✓Monitor local media for breaking news and be prepared to adjust your plans immediately.
• ✓Consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices regarding aviation safety in the region.

Common questions