Libya entry requirements for United Kingdom passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 17, 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
British passport holders need an eVisa to enter Libya in 2026. You must apply and receive approval before you travel — there are no visas on arrival for UK citizens.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | You need an eVisa to enter Libya. Apply through the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal at mfa.gov.ly. Processing times vary — submit at least 2 weeks before your flight.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for duration of stay | Your passport must be valid for the entire period you plan to stay in Libya. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires before you leave, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at Libyan airports routinely ask for proof of a return or onward flight. Have a printed copy or a screenshot of your booking ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Libyan immigration may ask where you are staying. Have a hotel confirmation or a letter from your host with their contact details ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | You may be asked to show you have enough money for your stay. Carry cash (USD or EUR) or a bank statement showing at least $500 for a short trip. | Recommended |
eVisa required — no exceptions
British passport holders cannot enter Libya without an approved eVisa. There are no visas on arrival or visa waivers. Apply well in advance.
Passport validity counts from arrival
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you land in Libya, not from your departure date. Check your expiry date before applying.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the Libyan eVisa portal (if available) or contact the nearest Libyan embassy for the application link. Fill in your details, upload a passport photo and a copy of your passport bio page, and pay the fee. Processing usually takes 5–10 working days.
2
Receive and print your eVisa
Once approved, you'll get an email with the eVisa document. Print two copies — one for your carry-on, one in your checked luggage. Also save a PDF on your phone.
3
Arrive at Tripoli or Benghazi airport
At immigration, present your passport, printed eVisa, and return ticket. The officer will stamp your passport. Have your accommodation address ready if asked.
Download Libya Entry Checklist
PDF · United Kingdom Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 17, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$50 USD
Apply at Libyan embassy; requires sponsor letter.
Business visa
Max stay90 days, extendable
Validity6 months
Cost~$100 USD
Requires invitation from Libyan company.
work visa
Libya Work Visa
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (employer-sponsored)
For foreign workers with a Libyan employer. Requires labor ministry approval and valid contract.
student visa
Libya Student Visa
1 year, renewable
~$100 USD
For enrolled students at Libyan universities. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa feeNon-refundable, paid online before travel. | ~$50 USD (equivalent in local currency) |
| Overstay fine per dayMay be charged at departure; no official cap known. | ~$10 USD per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete visa application30%
No return ticket25%
Insufficient funds20%
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 Libya
Transit visa required
UK passport holders transiting through Libya must obtain a transit visa before travel, even if staying airside.
Transit hubsTripoli Mitiga International Airport · Benghazi Benina International Airport
Health & vaccines for Libya
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to poor sanitation; avoid tap water and street food.
LeishmaniasisModerate risk
Spread by sandflies in rural areas; use insect repellent.
Malaria risk: low
Risk exists in rural areas; prophylaxis recommended for long stays.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Tripoli
Department of Passports and Immigration
Al-Shatt Street, Tripoli
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00
Bring passport, visa, and sponsor letter for extensions.
Benghazi
Benghazi Immigration Office
Al-Fuwayhat, Benghazi
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00
Limited services; expect delays.
Practical information for GB travellers
Country basics
CapitalTripoli
LanguageArabic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyLibyan dinar (LYD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 6.35 LYD
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C, LType C (two round pins) and Type L (three round pins) 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
Processing typically takes 5–10 working days. Apply at least 3 weeks before your trip to allow for delays. There is no expedited option.
No. There are no visas on arrival for British citizens. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel.
The fee varies depending on the embassy or portal. Expect to pay around £50–£100. Check with the Libyan embassy in London for the exact current fee.
You will be denied entry. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa. The 6 months are counted from your date of arrival in Libya.
Yes. Immigration wants proof you'll leave the country. A flight out of Libya is the most straightforward proof. If you're leaving by land, you may need to show a visa for the next country and a bus or car booking.
It's not always checked at immigration, but it's strongly recommended. Medical facilities are limited, and evacuation can cost thousands. Some eVisa applications may ask for proof of insurance.
No. The eVisa does not allow extensions. You must leave before the visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines or deportation.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 17, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.