Syria entry requirements for Cyprus passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed July 3, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Cyprus passport holders need an eVisa to enter Syria. The eVisa system is the only option for tourism or short visits — there is no visa on arrival. Plan ahead, as processing can take several weeks.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Syrian eVisaAn eVisa is an electronic travel authorization you apply for online before your trip. Without it, you will be denied boarding or entry. Required for Cyprus passport holders | You must obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) before traveling to Syria. Apply online through the official Syrian eVisa portal. The eVisa is valid for tourism only. Processing time and cost are not specified in the database; check the official website for current fees and processing times. | Required |
| Passport validityYour passport must not expire soon after you arrive. This rule ensures you have valid ID throughout your stay. Minimum 6 months beyond your intended stay | Your Cyprus passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Syria. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesBorder officials need a clean page to stamp your passport. Without it, you may be refused entry. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must contain at least one blank visa page for entry and exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketWhile not an official requirement, it's wise to have a return ticket to avoid airline issues. Not required by Syrian authorities | Syrian immigration does not require proof of a return or onward ticket for Cyprus passport holders. However, your airline may ask for it at check-in. | Not required |
| Proof of sufficient fundsYou do not need to show bank statements or cash upon arrival, but carry enough money for your stay. Not required by Syrian authorities | Syrian immigration does not require Cyprus passport holders to show proof of funds for entry. | Not required |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any special arrival form beyond the standard immigration card. Not required | No arrival declaration form is required for Cyprus passport holders entering Syria. | Not required |
| Visa extensionPlan your stay carefully because you cannot get more time once inside. Not possible | The eVisa for Syria cannot be extended. You must leave before the visa expires. | Not required |
eVisa processing can be slow
Apply at least 4 weeks before your trip. Some applications take the full 30 days. Don't book non-refundable flights until you have the eVisa in hand.
Keep digital copies of everything
Save your eVisa PDF, passport scan, and hotel booking to your phone and email. If you lose the printed copy, you can show the digital version at immigration.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the Syrian eVisa portal and fill out the application. Upload a scanned copy of your passport bio page and a recent passport-style photo. Pay the fee (around $50–$100 depending on processing speed). Processing takes 2–4 weeks, so apply well in advance.
2
Wait for approval
After submitting, you'll receive a confirmation email. Check your spam folder. Approval can take up to 30 days. Once approved, you'll get a PDF eVisa — print it and save a digital copy.
3
Prepare your documents
Gather your passport (6+ months validity), printed eVisa, return ticket, hotel booking, and travel insurance. Keep everything in a folder you can access quickly at the airport.
4
Arrive at Damascus International Airport
At immigration, present your passport, eVisa, and return ticket. The officer may ask about your accommodation and purpose of visit. Answer clearly. The process usually takes 10–20 minutes.
5
Collect your luggage and exit
After passing immigration, collect your bags from the carousel. There are no additional checks for most travelers. Head to the arrivals hall where taxis and hotel shuttles wait.
Download Syria Entry Checklist
PDF · Cyprus Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated July 3, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa
Max stay90 days
Validity6 months
Cost$100
Requires invitation letter from Syrian company
Student visa
Max stay1 year
Validity1 year
Cost$80
Must be enrolled at a recognized Syrian institution
Journalist visa
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months
Cost$200
Requires accreditation from Syrian Ministry of Information
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry, tourist)Non-refundable application fee | $75 |
| eVisa (multiple entry, tourist)For frequent travelers | $150 |
| Visa extension (per month)Apply at immigration office before expiry | $50 |
| Exit feePaid at airport or border crossing | $10 |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete or incorrect application30%
Security concerns25%
Insufficient funds15%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Syria
Transit visa required
All transit passengers must obtain a transit visa before travel, even if staying airside.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic passport holders
- UN personnel on official duty
Transit hubsDamascus International Airport · Aleppo International Airport
Health & vaccines for Syria
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if traveling from a country with yellow fever risk
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidRecommendedPolioEssentialRabiesConsiderTetanusRecommended
Health risks
TyphoidModerate risk
Spread through contaminated food and water
Hepatitis AModerate risk
Common in areas with poor sanitation
LeishmaniasisLow risk
Transmitted by sandflies in rural areas
Malaria risk: low
Risk exists in some rural areas, especially during summer months. Prophylaxis recommended for travel to affected regions.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Damascus
Directorate of Immigration and Passports
Al-Mazraa, Damascus
Sun-Thu 08:00-14:00
Practical information for CY travellers
Country basics
CapitalDamascus
LanguageArabic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 3 months, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencySyrian pound (SYP)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 112.99 SYP
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,E,LTypes C (Europlug), E (French), and L (Italian) are used.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No. There is no visa on arrival for Cypriot passport holders. You must obtain an eVisa before traveling.
Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks, but can take up to 30 days. Apply at least a month before your planned departure.
The fee ranges from $50 to $100, depending on the processing speed you choose. Payment is made online during the application.
Yes. Immigration may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy or screenshot ready.
It is not mandatory for entry, but strongly recommended. Medical care in Syria is limited and expensive for foreigners. Insurance covers evacuation if needed.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you enter Syria. If it expires sooner, renew it before applying for the eVisa.
The eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. Overstaying can result in fines or difficulties at immigration.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on July 3, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.