Syria is once again open for business as the dust settles from the recent toppling of Bashar Al Assad. The Ministry of Tourism is set to be operational again from March, however foreign tourists are now able to enter the country.
What’s new?
The transitional government has introduced a visa on arrival system to allows visitors to easily enter Syria. Previously, you were required to apply for a pre-approval that took anywhere from 1-6 weeks depending on your nationality. On top of this there was even a period of time where they just flat out denied visas to US citizens. That couldn’t be more different to now.
In addition, there is now no longer a stamp that will be placed in your passport. Instead, you will receive a stamp on separate sheet of paper which will act as your permit in the country.
Can anyone use the visa on arrival?
The visa on arrival is available to everyone except for Iranian citizens who must obtain a pre-approval. And of course, as usual Israeli citizens will not be eligible, but there’s no surprises there. Lebanese citizens without a residency permit for a foreign country or a Syrian family member will also have to get a travel permit.
How much does it cost?
For now, it’s free but just like with all good things this won’t last as was the case with Algeria’s visa on arrival. We don’t know yet how much it will cost, but we will provide updates once this information becomes available.
If you’ve been wanting to visit Syria but were put off by the visa process, or you simply what to see a country at a crucial point in its history then come with us in April when we will be one of the first groups of foreign tourists to visit the new Syria! Check out the tour
here on our website!
If you would prefer to visit Syria on a private tour, send us an email to
[email protected]
to secure your place.
