Libya is a country in the Maghreb region in North Africa. It is mostly desert that it affects its weather. This oil-rich country is also rich in ancient history, because of that, it has a lot of ancient landmarks and ruins that travelers should see.

Though traveling here is quite risky because of the ongoing chaos, Libya surely has a lot to offer. For as long as you will organize your trip coherently and prepare all the things that you might need when you’re finally there, then you won’t have any problem. Good research and great preparation are needed upon going there.

However, going to Libya might require some effort as US citizens are required to obtain a Libya Tourist Visa before entering the country. In this article, we put all the information that you may need in case you decided to travel there.

Facts about Libya

Language

The official language in Libya is Modern Standard Arabic.

Currency

Libyan Dinar

Religion

Islam is the main religion in Libya with over 90% of the population are Sunni Muslims.

Important

Please remember that the Embassy of Libya in Washington, DC does not issue Tourist visas. They are issued through the Libyan Consulate in Ottawa, Canada.

Main Requirements in Applying for Libyan Tourist Visa

1. Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months and with at least one blank passport page.)

2. Signed and completed application form.

3. Two recent photos, 2x2 with white background.

4. Invitation letter from a sponsor in Libya explaining the relationship to the applicant and the purpose of travel.

5. Certified Cheque or Money Order with the Fees payable to “Embassy of Libya”.

6. A prepaid return envelope to mail back the documents with your address clearly printed on it.

Visa Fee (Canadian dollars)

1 Month single entry VISA: $102.50
3 Months multi-entry VISA: $205.00
6 Months multi-entry VISA: $410.00

Mode of payment: Certified Cheque or Money Order.

Processing time: Up to 5 business days.

How to apply?

The complete package can be mailed or delivered to the Embassy of Libya, Consular Section in Ottawa, Canada (The address is written below).

Important Things to Remember

Visitors having a valid or expired Israeli visa or any evidence of entry in Israel will be refused entry in Libya.
Visitors are required to convert at least US$1,000 or equivalent, in convertible cash or debit the amount from a valid credit card upon arrival. Failure to do so will result in the traveler being refused entry. However, if you are visiting a Libyan resident and you’re holding proof of sponsorship covering the entire stay OR if you are traveling as part of a paid tourist package then you are exempted.
The import and export of local currency for both residents and non-residents are prohibited.

Embassy in the United States

Embassy of Libya
Address: 1460 Dahlia Street NW Washington, DC 20012

Contact number:
Tel: (202) 944-9601-5
Fax: (202) 944-9606
Email: Consular.sec@embassyoflibyadc.com

Embassy of Libya, Consular Section in Ottawa, Canada
Address: 170 Laurier West Avenue, Unit 710 Ottawa, ON K1P 5V5

Contact number:
Tel: (613) 842-7519
Fax: (613) 842-8627
Email: info@embassyoflibya.ca

To contact them directly, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions on Applying for a Libya Tourist Visa

1. When should I apply for a visa?

The best time to apply for a Libyan visa is at least a month before your target departure date.

2. Is it safe to travel to Libya?

Traveling to Libya might not be a really good idea because of the crime and terrorism that are happening in the country. Going there might still be at your own risk. However, there are some precautionary measures that you should remember in case you decided to go there. The US government provided these measures, you can check them here.

3. Should I get travel insurance before my departure?

You should definitely get travel insurance before you go to Libya.

4. How to get there?

Unfortunately, as of this writing, there are no flights available from the US to Libya. The main airport in Libya is Tripoli International Airport. If you wish to travel there, just check Skyscanner for updates from time to time.

5. When is the best time to visit Libya?

Since Libya is mostly desert, summer would be extremely hot. The best time to visit Libya is during the Spring and Fall season. The weather is nice and comfortable during those days. However, this country is huge so the weather depends on what region you are in.

6. Will I have a hard time communicating with the locals?

The official language in Libya is Arabic, so the majority of the people only speak Arabic. But some of the young generations can speak English fluently. So if you will visit Libya, it is recommended to ask younger Libyans in case you need some information regarding your trip. But it is also highly recommended to bring a translator app or a travel book/guide with you just in case you encounter difficulties communicating with the locals.

7. Why should I visit Libya?

Libya is well-known for its ancient Greek and Roman ruins and Sahara desert landscapes. One of the few things that you shouldn’t miss here is the “Red Castle Museum” also known as the “Assaraya Alhamra Museum” or the Archaeological Museum of Tripoli, which is the National Museum in Libya. Its architecture is stunning and picturesque that it would really capture your eyes! You shouldn’t miss this one out.

Libyan food is also one of the few reasons why you should go there. Their local cuisine is mostly from the traditions of Mediterranean, North African, and Berber. One of the most popular food that you should try when you get there is their “Bazin”, an unleavened bread prepared with barley, water, and salt.

Despite all the dangers surrounding the country, visitors can still travel to Libya for as long as they will stay in Tripoli or other areas around it. However, please be advised that if you will travel there, you should have an organized and arranged trip by a local travel agency to look after you. Be safe and enjoy your memorable trip!