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Visitor & short-stay visas

Syrian Visa-Free Entry

Short-stay entry without a visa, available only to nationals of a limited group of neighbouring Arab states.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

Under review — check current rules

The list of visa-exempt nationalities and permitted stay length were not confirmable from an official government page; confirm with a Syrian mission.

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
Visa exemption (bilateral / reciprocal)
Route type
Visa-free short stay
Who qualifies
Nationals of certain neighbouring Arab states
Exact country list varies and must be confirmed with a Syrian mission.
Passport validity
At least 3 months beyond your date of arrival
Where to apply
No visa required; entry is granted at the port of entry (Damascus/Aleppo airport or an open land border)
Visa fee
None for the visa exemption itself
Maximum stay
Short visit only; regularise with immigration to stay longer
Exact permitted stay depends on the bilateral arrangement and was not confirmable from an official government page.

Who it is for

  • Nationals of eligible neighbouring Arab states making short visits

What you can do

  • Enter and stay for the permitted visa-free period
  • Approach the immigration office to extend or register a longer stay

Requirements

  • Be a national of a country that has a visa-exemption arrangement with Syria (confirm your nationality is currently included, as the list changes)
  • Hold a passport valid for at least three months beyond your date of arrival, with at least one blank page
  • Not hold Israeli or Iranian nationality (entry is barred), and hold no evidence of travel to Israel in the passport
  • Be able to show onward or return travel and, if asked, proof of sufficient funds and accommodation
  • Intend to stay only for the permitted visa-free period

How to apply

There is no advance visa application for visa-free entry: you present your passport at immigration control on arrival at Damascus or Aleppo international airport, or at an open land border.

  • Reconfirm your nationality's current eligibility shortly before travelling, because visa-exemption lists and land-border openings change at short notice
  • Present a valid passport and, if requested, onward-travel and accommodation evidence at the immigration desk
  • If you intend to remain beyond the permitted visa-free period, report to the local immigration office (Idarat al-Hijra) to regularise or extend your stay before it expires

Documents you may need

  • Passport valid for at least three months beyond arrival, with a blank page
  • Evidence of the nationality or status that qualifies you for the exemption
  • Return or onward travel ticket
  • Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds if requested at the border

Frequently asked questions

  • Visa-free entry only covers a short visit. To remain beyond the permitted period you must approach the local immigration office (Idarat al-Hijra) to register and apply for a residence permit before your permitted stay expires; overstaying can lead to fines.

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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