Lebanon
Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-mission-employed eligible family members (EFMs) and authorized departure for mission-employed EFMs and non-essential U.S. direct hire (USDH) employees.
On September 28 the Department of State ordered the departure of non-mission-employed EFMs and authorized departure for mission-employed EFMs and non-essential USDH employees due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation in Beirut. U.S. Embassy Beirut personnel are restricted from personal travel without advance permission. Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.
Due to the increased volatility following airstrikes within Beirut and the volatile and unpredictable security situation throughout Lebanon, the U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to depart Lebanon now while commercial options still remain available. At this time, commercial flights are available, but at reduced capacity. If the security situation worsens, commercial options to depart may become unavailable. Please check flight options at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport. The U.S. Embassy may not be able to assist U.S. citizens who choose to remain in Lebanon.
If you choose to remain in Lebanon, be prepared to shelter in place should the situation deteriorate further. The U.S. Embassy strongly encourages U.S. citizens in Southern Lebanon, near the borders with Syria, and/or in refugee settlements to depart those areas immediately.
Do Not Travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict. Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Country Summary: U.S. citizens who remain in Lebanon should be aware of the risks and review their personal security plans.
U.S. citizens in Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut serious enough to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice.
Since October 8, 2023, cross-border exchanges of fire have occurred between Hizballah and Israel; in some instances, including targets well north of the border region. On September 17-18, communications devices exploded in locations throughout Lebanon, including Beirut, killing dozens and injuring thousands. On September 20, a targeted strike hit the southern suburbs of Beirut. Following Israel’s airstrikes on September 27 and 28 in Beirut’s southern suburbs, Lebanon’s security environment has become even more volatile and unpredictable.
The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning.
Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.
Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated.
Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations.
Unexploded landmines and explosive remnants of war are a hazard along the border with Syria. Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked off with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions.
U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as these have the potential to turn violent quickly and with little notice. Protesters have blocked major roads, including thoroughfares between downtown Beirut and the area where the U.S. Embassy is located, and between Beirut and Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lebanon.
If you decide to travel to Lebanon:
- Visit our website for information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.
- Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with kidnappers/hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped, or taken hostage.
- Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
- Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
- Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
- Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Report for Lebanon.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Southern Lebanon – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There (See map below)
The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid southern Lebanon and to depart if you are there; that is, all parts south of the city of Saida, to include inland areas, as illustrated in the map below. Cross-border rocket, missile, and artillery fire continues to impact southern Lebanon on a daily basis and has caused a significant number of fatalities and injuries.
Border with Syria – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There
The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanon-Syria border and to depart if you are there. This area has seen clashes between Lebanese security forces and Syrian-based violent extremist groups. The U.S. Department of State also warns U.S. citizens of the risk of traveling on flights that fly over Syria, which include some flights to and from Beirut.
Refugee Settlements – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There
The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to refugee settlements in Lebanon and depart if you are there. These settlements are prone to outbreaks of violence including shootings and explosions.
Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Embassies and Consulates
U.S. Embassy Beirut
Awkar (facing the Awkar Municipality Building), Main Street
Beirut, Lebanon
Telephone: +(961) 4-542600 or +(961) 4-543600
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(961) 4-543600
Fax: +(961) 4-544209
Email: BeirutACS@state.gov
Entry, Exit and Visa
- Passports and visas are required.
- U.S. citizens coming to Lebanon for tourism routinely receive a one-month visa on arrival at Beirut International Airport or other port of entry. This visa can be extended. Details on the extension can be obtained at a local office of Sûreté Générale (General Security).
- Official U.S. government travelers must obtain a visa before traveling.
- U.S. citizens who also hold Lebanese citizenship are subject to the requirements and responsibilities of Lebanese citizenship under Lebanese law.
- More information on Lebanon’s entry and exit requirements can be found on General Security’s website.
- Travelers who hold passports that contain visas or entry/exit stamps for Israel will be denied entry into Lebanon and may be subject to arrest or detention. Even if travel documents contain no Israeli stamps or visas, persons who have previously traveled to Israel may still face arrest and/or detention if prior travel is disclosed.
- The Government of Lebanon has the authority to refuse admission to U.S. citizens and to detain U.S. citizens for further inspection.
- Travelers who have previously worked in Lebanon without the appropriate work visa may be denied entry, detained or deported.
- Travelers who have overstayed their entry visa validity in Lebanon must obtain an exit visa from General Security’s Department of Passport and Immigration prior to their departure.
- Individuals who are detained and awaiting deportation will remain detained until they pay the cost of their return airfare.
- Authorities with General Security may retain U.S. passports for an extended period while U.S. citizens await issuance of work or residency permits.
- All U.S. government employees and their family members must follow appropriate procedures for official travel to Lebanon. Official travel is approved via the normal country clearance process.
For Additional Information:
- Contact the Embassy of Lebanon, 2560 28th Street NW, Washington, DC, 20008, tel. (202) 939-6300; e-mail: info@lebanonembassyus.org.
- Or Lebanese Consulates General in the United States in
- Los Angeles
- Detroit
- New York
- Additional information on Honorary Consulates in the United States can be found within the Consular Affairs section of the Embassy of Lebanon website.
Traveling Through Europe: If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.
- Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country.
- You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket.
- For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.
The U.S. Department of State is not aware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or residents of Lebanon, although individuals applying for work permits must submit to a laboratory exam to prove that they are free of HIV/AIDS. For further information, please see the website of General Security (in Arabic).
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Safety and Security
The current Department of State Travel Advisory urges U.S. citizens to reconsider or avoid travel to certain areas in Lebanon due to COVID-19 and the threats of terrorism, armed clashes, civil unrest, kidnapping, and outbreaks of violence, particularly near Lebanon’s borders with Syria and Israel. Additionally, Lebanon is currently undergoing a period of increased political and economic instability that could lead to violence, major disruptions and/or safety risks. U.S. citizens living and working in Lebanon should carefully consider the risks of remaining in the country.
Economic Instability: Lebanon is experiencing chronic electricity and fuel shortages. Most areas have only a few hours of government-provided electricity each day. Long lines at gas stations are common and cause traffic congestion throughout the country. Lebanese media periodically report physical and armed altercations at gas stations over scarce supplies. Disruptions to the mobile telephone network, internet service, health services, and water may occur due electricity outages. A shortage of hard currency has restricted bank depositors’ ability to withdraw their money as well as the country’s ability to import many goods. Pharmacies and hospitals report chronic shortages of medicines and medical equipment and difficulties paying medical staff. Travelers should bring sufficient quantities of prescription medications to cover the length of their stay.
Political Unrest: Beginning in October 2019, Lebanon witnessed frequent demonstrations by protesters dissatisfied with government policies and endemic corruption. While these protests, which were largely peaceful, have decreased in size and frequency, the country is still seeing some street protests, and some of them became violent. U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests. During periods of civil unrest, protesters routinely have blocked major roads, including the primary road to the U.S. Embassy and the primary road between downtown Beirut and Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport.
Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.
- Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
- Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
- Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds. Frequently, they select unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:
- High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
- Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
- Places of worship
- Schools
- Parks
- Shopping malls and markets
- Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)
For more information, see our Terrorism page.
There is potential for death or injury in Lebanon because of terrorist attacks. Violent extremist groups, including U.S. government-designated terrorist organizations, operate in Lebanon. ISIS and Al-Nusrah Front (ANF) have claimed responsibility for suicide bombings in Lebanon. U.S. citizens have been the targets of terrorist attacks in Lebanon. The threat of anti-Western terrorist activity persists, as does the risk of death or injury to non-targeted bystanders. Clashes between Lebanese authorities and criminal elements continue to occur in areas of the Bekaa Valley and border regions. Hizballah maintains a strong presence in the Bekaa Valley, in addition to areas in southern Lebanon and south Beirut. Hizballah has been the target of attacks by other extremist groups for their support of the Assad regime in Syria.
Security Risks: The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut sufficiently serious to require them to live and work under strict security restrictions. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice. Security restrictions may prevent U.S. Embassy officials from traveling to assist U.S. citizens in certain areas including parts of metropolitan Beirut, the city of Tripoli, northern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, refugee settlements, and southern Lebanon.
U.S. citizens are responsible for arranging their own travel out of Lebanon, including in a worsening security climate. The Embassy does not offer protection services to U.S. citizens who feel unsafe but directs citizens to plan for unexpected situations and exercise safety and security precaution. U.S. citizens in Lebanon should remain aware of their surroundings and know how to access emergency police assistance. In particular, U.S. citizens with medical or other special requirements should be aware of the corresponding risks of remaining in the country and be prepared to seek treatment in Lebanon if they cannot arrange for travel out of the country.
U.S. citizens who choose to travel to Lebanon despite guidance offered in the Travel Advisory should be aware that consular officers at the U.S. Embassy may not be able to travel to assist them. Also, the Lebanese government cannot guarantee the protection of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence. Armed clashes have occurred along the Lebanese borders and in Beirut. Armed clashes have also occurred in the Tripoli neighborhoods of Bab al-Tabbaneh and Jabal Mohsen, resulting in deaths and injuries. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes also can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence. Celebratory gunfire has also led to injury or death.
Evacuations: U.S. government-facilitated evacuations occur only when no safe commercial alternatives exist and cannot be guaranteed even when commercial travel options are limited or absent. If the U.S. government does facilitate an evacuation, evacuation assistance is provided on a cost-recovery basis, which means travelers must sign promissory notes to reimburse the U.S. government for travel costs. U.S. citizens should maintain valid U.S. passports, as lack of valid documentation could hinder their ability to depart the country. Evacuees would not have a choice of their immediate destination upon departing Lebanon and may be required to transit directly to the United States. Additional information on the Department’s role during emergencies can be found at Emergencies.
Kidnapping: Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, occurs in Lebanon. Kidnapping perpetrators are sometimes linked to terrorist or criminal organizations. The U.S. government places the highest priority on the safe recovery of kidnapped U.S. citizens. However, it is U.S. policy not to make concessions to hostage takers, including terrorist organizations, as U.S. law prohibits providing material support to terrorist organizations.
Avoid the Lebanon-Syria border region: The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanese-Syrian border region because of past clashes, extremist activity, and the potential for these to recur at any time.
Avoid the Lebanon-Israel border region: Hostilities between Israel and Hizballah flared in August and September 2019, and again in July 2020, resulting in apparent rocket and drone attacks. Most recently, cross-border exchanges of rocket fire occurred in May 2021 concurrent with the hostilities between Israel and HAMAS. The potential for wider conflict remains. The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanon-Israel border area due to ongoing tensions between the two countries. Attacks and responses can occur without warning. Landmines and unexploded ordnance pose significant dangers throughout southern Lebanon, particularly south of the Litani River. Travelers should watch for posted landmine warnings and strictly avoid all marked areas.
Avoid travel to refugee settlements: Violence within refugee settlements has resulted in shootings and explosions. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to refugee settlements. Palestinian groups hostile to both the Lebanese government and the United States operate autonomously in formal and informal refugee settlements in different areas of the country.
Crime: Reported crime rates in Lebanon are moderate but rising. Violent crime and sexual assault are rare, but do occur. Petty theft -- such as pickpocketing and purse snatching -- occurs in crowded public areas. More recently, the dire economic situation is engendering a significant increase in economically motivated crimes, including home invasions and car thefts. Police are responsive but often unable to effect a positive outcome.
Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes by visiting the nearest police or by calling the ISF hotline 1745 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(961) 4-542600 or +(961) 4-543600. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
- Help you find appropriate medical care
- Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
- Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
- Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
- Provide a list of local attorneys
- Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
- Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
- Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
- Replace a stolen or lost passport
International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information. Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Lebanon. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.
Common scams include:
- Romance/Online dating
- Lotteries
- Work permits/job offers
Tourism: Ongoing civil unrest that began in October 2019 has disrupted the travel and presence of tourists in Lebanon. The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. Although the government has sought to help medical service providers obtain required medical supplies and equipment, the current economic situation and lack of dollar liquidity has affected hospitals’ ability to import goods and maintain equipment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Local Laws and Special Circumstances
Criminal Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to local laws while in Lebanon. A U.S. passport does not exempt U.S. citizens from local laws. Anyone who breaks the law in Lebanon, regardless of citizenship, can be subject to arrest or prosecution. Persons violating Lebanese laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested without bail for extended periods, or imprisoned. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Lebanon can be significant, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Visitors lacking passport or identification documents at government checkpoints are subject to questioning by Lebanese authorities. In certain areas, taking photos of buildings or other infrastructure has led to questioning and detention. In Lebanon, persons driving under the influence can be jailed immediately.
Furthermore, some infractions are also subject to prosecution in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Individuals who were affiliated with the former militia known as the South Lebanon Army (SLA) and previously departed Lebanon because of their association with that group should carefully consider any plans to return to Lebanon. Alleged former members of the SLA have been detained on arrival received threats to their physical security, even after receiving assurances from Lebanese officials and/or legal counsel in Lebanon that they could return safely.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.
Dual Citizenship: U.S. citizens who also hold Lebanese nationality are considered by local authorities to be Lebanese and are subject to Lebanese law, even when entering Lebanon using a U.S. passport. Lebanese-American citizens who are suspected of association with Israeli citizens or officials, or to have traveled through Israel, are subject to detention, arrest, and prosecution. Their passports will be retained by Lebanese authorities on arrival, and they must appear at the Lebanese Military court the next business day for investigation, after which their passports may be returned if no connections with Israel are confirmed. U.S. citizen dual nationals of other Arab countries who arrive at a Lebanese point of entry with an Israeli stamp in their passports will be denied entry and may be detained or arrested. Travelers with a family name deemed to be of Israeli or Jewish origin may also be questioned or detained.
Travelers who have previously entered Lebanon illegally under Lebanese law, whether as refugees or for transit to a third country, may be denied entry, even if they are or have since become U.S. citizens.
Middle Eastern Heritage: U.S. citizens with names reflecting Middle Eastern heritage may face additional scrutiny at Lebanese ports of entry and may be required to show documentary evidence of their parentage: specifically, official proof of their father’s name such as a copy of their birth certificate.
Travel Holds: U.S. citizens living in or traveling in Lebanon are sometimes denied permission to depart the country because a criminal, civil, or family court has imposed a travel hold. For example, a head of household can place a travel hold against a spouse and children even before the family arrives in Lebanon. Easily initiated, travel holds remain in place for prolonged periods. While the U.S. Embassy can provide U.S. citizens options for legal representation, it cannot have travel holds removed, even in times of crisis.
The Syria Travel Advisory and Travel Between Lebanon and Syria: The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against travel to Syria and strongly recommends that U.S. citizens remaining in Syria depart immediately. You can review the Department of State’s Travel Advisory for Syria for additional information. U.S. citizens planning to travel to Syria from Lebanon despite the Travel Advisory should enter Syria only via legal border crossings and obtain a Syrian visa outside the United States in a third country. U.S. citizens who also hold Syrian nationality and enter Lebanon by land border on a Syrian identification card should obtain an exit visa from the Lebanese authorities before they attempt to depart Lebanon through the airport. It is recommended that U.S. citizens with Syrian nationality obtain a Lebanese entry visa in their U.S. passports at the Lebanese border upon entry from Syria.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:
- Faith-Based Travel Information
- International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
- Human Rights Report – see country reports
- Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
- Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad
LGBTI Travelers: LGBTI status and/or conduct is criminalized in Lebanon, and LGBTI persons can face significant social stigma. Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code prohibits sexual relations “contradicting the laws of nature,” an offense punishable by up to one year in prison. Although some Lebanese courts interpret this provision in different ways and prosecutions are rare, judicial decisions can vary case-to-case and LGBTI adults have been charged, tried, and convicted for engaging in consensual same-sex relations. Authorities have arrested LGBTI individuals for minor offenses, then charged them with violation of Article 534 when evidence of their LGBTI identity is uncovered, through searches of cell phones or other personal material. While prosecution is uncommon, short-term detentions can expose individuals to discrimination and abuse. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details.
Travelers with Disabilities: While in Lebanon, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from the United States. The law in Lebanon prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, but the law is not uniformly enforced. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Most public transportation, including taxis, is not accessible. Roads are often in disrepair, and there are few sidewalks or cross walks. Uneven ground and the lack of elevators and ramps at buildings and tourist sites can impede access for persons with physical disabilities.
Service providers for people with disabilities, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants, are available in Lebanon. Rental, repair, and replacement parts for equipment and devices for people with disabilities is also available but limited. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon to receive a list of providers.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI’s student travel brochure.
Women Travelers: Please see Travel Holds above and review our travel tips for Women Travelers.
Working in Lebanon: U.S. citizens who come to work in Lebanon should ensure that their employers obtain proper visas for them to remain in the country. Travelers coming to Lebanon as professional athletes should secure written contracts before traveling.
Marrying in Lebanon: More than 18 separate and distinct religious sects solemnize marriages in Lebanon. Civil marriage is not available. U.S. citizen and Lebanese national couples should familiarize themselves with the rights and responsibilities of marriage as defined by the religion performing their marriage. They should be aware that religious clerics and religious courts dictate all personal status matters related to marriage, divorce, and child custody. Civil marriages performed outside of Lebanon and registered with Lebanon’s Ministry of the Interior fall under civil court jurisdiction with regard to divorce and child custody.
Military Service Obligation: Mandatory military service in Lebanon was abolished in 2007. However, travelers with questions about prior military service, desertion, or failure to register in the past should contact the Embassy of Lebanon in Washington, D.C. for details prior to traveling to Lebanon.
Customs: Lebanese customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning import and export of items, such as firearms, military paraphernalia, professional camera equipment, other communications equipment, or antiquities. You should contact the Embassy of Lebanon in Washington, D.C., for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please see our information on customs regulations.
Health
For emergency services in Lebanon dial 112.
Travelers should note that the standard of care could be compromised by the country’s current economic situation, which has impeded the import of some medications and medical supplies. The economic environment has also resulted in the layoff, nonpayment, or emigration of some health care professionals. A list of doctors who speak English and a list of hospitals are available from the U.S. Embassy's website. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
Health facilities in general:
- Adequate health facilities are available in Beirut, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
- Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
- Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always accepted; most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment, often in USD.
- Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
- Medical staff may speak little or no English.
- Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
- Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions
Pharmaceuticals
- Due to the current economic situation in Lebanon, some medications are not available in pharmacies and medical facilities.
- Exercise caution when purchasing medication outside the United States. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
- Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Lebanon.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.
Ambulance services are:
- not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
- not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
- Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.
The U.S. Embassy does not pay the medical bills of private U.S. citizens. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most doctors and hospitals in Lebanon expect immediate cash payment for services, and without such payment, they may deny service, even in emergency cases. Credit card payment is not widely available. Cash in U.S. dollars is no longer widely available in Lebanon as the financial situation has caused banks to limit withdrawals, and ATMs are not consistently stocked. Cash in Lebanese pounds can be obtained more easily but is also subject to bank limitations on withdrawal amounts. With overseas medical coverage you will be able to seek reimbursement after paying for care up front. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For further health information, go to:
Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.
Water Quality: In all areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe.
Travel and Transport
Road Conditions and Safety: Road conditions differ significantly from those in the United States. In certain areas, pedestrians have minimal access to sidewalks and are forced to walk along the sides of busy roadways. There are very few bicycle lanes designated for cyclists, and drivers are unaccustomed to sharing the road with cyclists. Beirut streets and highway lanes are known for their heavy traffic congestion and aggressive driving. Lanes are generally unmarked, and roads outside the capital may be poorly lighted.
Drivers generally will find inter-city directional signs and street markers, but side roads often bear no signposts.
An international driver’s license is required for visitors to Lebanon. Please refer to our Road Safety page and the website of Lebanon’s National Tourist Office for more information.
Traffic Laws:
- Drivers must carry a valid driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance while driving. Licenses are issued to those at least 18 years of age.
- Drivers must obey speed limits and traffic lights, and yield to ambulances, fire engines, and other emergency vehicles.
- Radar detection devices are prohibited.
- Seat belts are compulsory for both front and rear passengers in all vehicles, and helmets are mandatory for cyclists and motorcycle riders.
- A hazard triangle in the vehicle is mandatory.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is prohibited, as are open alcohol containers in a vehicle
- Cell phone use while driving is prohibited, except with a hands-free system.
- Children under the age of 5 must be secured in a car seat, and children under the age of 10 may not sit in a front seat or be carried on a motorcycle.
A comprehensive listing of Lebanese traffic laws (in Arabic) is available on the website of the Lebanese Internal Security Forces (ISF).
Public Transportation: In general, public transportation in Lebanon is safe. Buses operate throughout the country but serve a primarily working-class clientele. Taxis are widely available and rideshare services are also active in Lebanon.
Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Lebanon, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Lebanon’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Because of the risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Syria, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that prohibits U.S. and codeshare flights from flying through Syrian airspace and advises caution for flights operating within 200 nautical miles.
For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.
Maritime Travel: “The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the safety practices in the Port of Beirut and finds that the Lebanese Ministry of Public Works and Transport has not fully implemented the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. As a result, the U.S. Coast Guard conducts additional screenings of ships that have stopped in Lebanon prior to arrival in the United States. Assessments by the U.S. Coast Guard indicate that Mariners and passengers traveling through the Port of Beirut should exercise caution.”
Mariners planning travel to Lebanon should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts within the MARAD website. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings website. Select “broadcast warnings” from within the NGA site.
This article has been written for review purposes only and does not suggest sponsorship or endorsement of AARDY by the trademark owner.
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Nona Pepino
Pre-exsisting health conditions worries solved
I was concerned and worried about getting travel health insurance coverage. Being an inexperienced international traveler I didn't realize that I should have purchased this insurance within 14-21 days of my initial travel payments in order to qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver. I called up Aardy and spoke with Kendall. He very kindly talked about my situation with me and was able to find 2 plans to fit my needs. I do appreciate his patience and consideration.
customer
Ease in website
Ease in website