Syria
Entry requirements
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, who choose to travel against FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
The relevant authorities in Syria set and enforce entry rules.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Syria, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Entry restrictions
If you hold Israeli or Iranian citizenship you cannot enter Syria. Those with Lebanese citizenship should check entry restrictions before booking any travel.
If your passport shows previous travel to Israel, you may be refused entry into Syria.
Visa requirements
You must have a visa for the area of Syria you want to travel to.
Applying for a visa
If you choose to travel to Syria against FCDO advice, ensure you have the right visa or you may be refused entry. You can apply for a visa, and check the status of your visa application via this website.
It currently takes approximately 5-7 days for a visa application to be processed and a decision to be made. Please note these times may vary. Contact the relevant interim Syrian authorities for further information.
Penalties for illegal entry
If you enter Syria illegally, you could get a fine of 5 to 10 million Syrian pounds and a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years.
Journalists travelling to Syria
Foreign journalists entering Syria should check with the interim Syrian authorities to ensure adherence to relevant regulations and requirements.
Vaccine requirements
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Syria guide.
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Syria. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.