Frequently asked questions about Libya

Yes, most nationalities require a visa to visit Libya. It must be applied for in advance at a Libyan embassy or consulate. You can find more information about visas by going to the Libya Visa page

The following documents are usually required to obtain a Libyan visa: a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a photograph, proof of accommodation booking, proof of income, health insurance and, in some cases, an invitation from the host country. The exact list may vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant's country.

The possibility of extending a Libyan visa depends on its type and initial validity. Some visa categories, such as tourist visas, do not allow for extensions. For other types of visas, such as business or work visas, extensions are possible if certain conditions are met and if authorized by the Libyan authorities.

The main types of Libyan visas include:

• Tourist visa - for short-term travel for tourism purposes
• Business Visa - for traveling for business purposes
• Work Visa - for employment in Libya
• Student visa - to study in Libyan educational institutions
• Diplomatic/Service Visa - for employees of embassies and international organizations

Obtaining a visa on arrival in Libya is only possible in limited cases. As a rule, a Libyan visa must be applied for in advance at the Libyan embassy or consulate in the country of residence. Visa on arrival is only available to nationals of the following countries: Algeria, Tunisia, Mauritania, Malaysia, Benin, Egypt, Turkey, Angola, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Comoros, Ethiopia, Ghana, Lebanon, Madagascar, Maldives, Nepal, Palau, Rwanda, Samoa, Tanzania, Togo, Tuvalu, Uganda.

Entry into Libya is prohibited for citizens of Israel, as well as for those who have a record of having visited Israel in their passports.

At the moment e-visa to Libya is available for citizens of a limited number of countries, mainly from Europe, North America and Asia. For an up-to-date list of countries whose citizens can apply for an e-visa to Libya, please visit our website by going to the page "E-visa to Libya".

The following documents are generally required to apply for an e-visa to Libya:

• A valid passport with a validity of at least 6 months
• Digital photo in JPG format
• Proof of accommodation booking or invitation from the host country
• Income certificate or bank statement
• Health insurance

• The ruins of the ancient Roman cities of Leptis Magna and Sabratha - UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Desert landscapes of the Sahara and oases such as Ghadames
• The old city of Tripoli with its medieval architecture
• Mosques and other monuments of Islamic culture

Libyan cuisine combines Arabic, Mediterranean and African traditions. Popular dishes include couscous, meat tagines, fish soups, flatbreads, dates and olive oil. Traditional sweets such as baklava and halva are also worth trying.

The official monetary unit of Libya is the Libyan dinar (LYD). US dollars are also widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.

Libya is located in a dry desert climate zone. Summer temperatures can rise to +40 °C or higher, especially in the southern and desert areas. Winters are mild, with temperatures around +10...+20 °C on the coast. Precipitation is rare and falls mainly in winter.

In Libya, it is possible to travel by bus and cab between cities, as well as rent a car. However, be aware that road infrastructure can be unpredictable, especially in remote areas.

Sharia law is strictly enforced in Libya. The use and distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs is prohibited. It is also important to avoid public criticism of the government and discussion of political topics.

Before traveling to Libya, it is advisable to consult a doctor and get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria and typhoid. It is also worth stocking up on necessary medications, as access to medicines may be limited.

In Libya, you should be particularly cautious about security issues. Avoid traveling to unstable regions, always inform someone of your movements, and do not disregard the security advice of local residents and government officials.

Libya widely celebrates Islamic holidays such as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr (the Feast of Pouring) and Eid al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice). The country also celebrates Revolution Day on September 1, which is a national holiday that commemorates the overthrow of the monarchy in 1969.

Libya is known for its traditional crafts such as carpet weaving, ceramics, wood and metal carving. Hand-woven carpets decorated with geometric and floral designs are particularly popular. Ceramics, including tableware and decorative objects, are also part of Libya's rich handicraft heritage.