Family visas
Lebanese Courtesy Residence (Spouse and Dependants of Lebanese)
A free residence permit for spouses, children and other close family of Lebanese citizens and people of Lebanese origin, letting relatives settle alongside their family in Lebanon.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
General Security does not publish a validity period, maximum stay or number of entries in English for courtesy residence; verify these figures before publication.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Lebanon government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Courtesy residence permit
- Route type
- Family
- Cost
- Free
- Per General Security
- Passport validity
- Passport valid for at least three years, plus two photocopies
- Per General Security
- Photographs
- Three recent photographs, 3.5 x 4.5 cm
- Eligible categories
- General Security lists eight categories, including spouses of Lebanese, people of Lebanese origin, children of Lebanese parents and certain dependants
- Where to apply
- A General Security authorised department / regional bureau in Lebanon
Who it is for
- Spouses of Lebanese citizens
- People of Lebanese origin and children of Lebanese parents
- Dependants of certain permit holders, and diplomats
Requirements
- Valid passport (General Security cites a minimum validity of around three years)
- Application form and recent photographs
- Documents proving eligibility — marriage certificate, birth certificate, Lebanese ID or civil-status records depending on the category
How to apply
- Apply at a regional General Security bureau with the relationship evidence
Documents you may need
- Completed and signed application form
- Passport valid for at least three years, plus two photocopies
- Three recent photographs, 3.5 x 4.5 cm
- Marriage certificate — for the spouse of a Lebanese woman (married over one year) or the non-working spouse of a Lebanese man
- Birth certificate or proof of Lebanese origin — for people of Lebanese origin or children of a Lebanese parent
- Proof of enrolment — for a foreign-born minor under 18 studying in Lebanon
- The relevant civil-status records for your category
Frequently asked questions
No. General Security grants courtesy (temporary) residence to the defined Arab and foreign immigrant and family categories free of charge.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.