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Residence & citizenship

Syrian Residence Permit (Long-Term Residency for Aliens)

The permit authorising a foreign national to reside in Syria beyond a short visit, governed by the aliens' residence law.

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Under review — check current rules

Residence-permit categories, validity periods and fees were not confirmable from an official government page; verify current rules with the immigration authority.

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 Syria government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Residence permit for aliens
Route type
Residency / settlement
Immigration authority
General Directorate of Immigration and Passports (Ministry of Interior)
Legal basis
Legislative Decree No. 29 of 1970 (entry, exit and residence of aliens)
Key obligation
Register with the immigration office to stay beyond the short initial period; leave on expiry
Where to apply
General Directorate of Immigration and Passports (Idarat al-Hijra) or its provincial branch, after entry
Path to citizenship
Sustained lawful residence is a prerequisite for naturalisation under the Nationality Law
Validity
Granted for a set period and must be renewed before expiry
Exact residence-permit categories and validity periods were not confirmable from an official government page.

Who it is for

  • Foreign nationals living in Syria beyond a short visit (work, study, family or other lawful grounds)

Requirements

  • Lawful entry and valid passport
  • Grounds for residence (employment, study, family, etc.)
  • Application to the immigration office within the required time after entry

How to apply

  • Approach the immigration office (or its provincial branch) after entry
  • Provide documents supporting the ground of residence
  • Renew before expiry; departure is required once the permit lapses

Documents you may need

  • Valid passport with a lawful entry stamp or visa
  • Evidence of the ground of residence — e.g. an employment contract plus work authorisation, an enrolment letter, or marriage/family documents
  • Passport photograph(s)
  • Proof of a local address in Syria
  • Any health or good-conduct certificates required by the immigration office

Frequently asked questions

  • Not on its own. A residence permit authorises you to live in Syria on the stated ground; employment additionally requires separate work authorisation associated with the ministry responsible for labour and social affairs.

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.

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