Description

Swiss citizens require a visa to enter Lebanon, but the process is straightforward thanks to the visa on arrival option. Tourist visas on arrival are typically valid for one month and can be extended for longer stays at the General Security office in Beirut. Alternatively, travelers may apply for an eVisa in advance through Lebanon’s online system. Our Travel Authorisation Lebanon service helps Swiss travelers prepare the required documents, comply with health and customs rules, and ensure smooth entry at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport or other official borders.

Visa process and timing:
The visa on arrival is issued at immigration counters upon presentation of a valid Swiss passport, onward or return ticket, and proof of accommodation. Payment of the government fee is made in cash (US dollars or Lebanese pounds). Processing is immediate. For travelers preferring to apply beforehand, the eVisa system offers the same conditions but avoids handling payment on arrival.

Entry requirements for Swiss citizens include:

A valid Swiss passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the stay
Onward or return flight ticket
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation, often required)
Sufficient funds for the trip
Visa on arrival fee or pre-approved eVisa

Health and insurance requirements:

No mandatory vaccinations if arriving directly from Switzerland
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if traveling from or transiting through a yellow fever risk country
Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and typhoid
COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, though health checks may still occur
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised, as Lebanon’s medical system can be costly for foreigners without coverage

Customs and border rules:

Currency above US $15,000 (or equivalent) must be declared
Duty-free allowances apply for alcohol, tobacco, and personal goods
Import restrictions apply to drones, satellite phones, and certain medications without permits
Travelers with Israeli entry or exit stamps may be denied entry into Lebanon

Stay limits and extensions:
Swiss citizens may stay for one month on a visa on arrival. Extensions of up to three months may be requested at the General Security Directorate in Beirut, subject to approval. Overstaying can lead to fines, detention, or deportation.

Lebanon offers Swiss travelers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty — from the ruins of Baalbek and the cedar forests to the Mediterranean coastline and Beirut’s lively atmosphere. With our Travel Authorisation Lebanon service, Swiss citizens receive expert assistance in navigating visa-on-arrival rules, entry conditions, and extension procedures.