Lebanon

Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Lebanon. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

Business visitors traveling to Lebanon may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attend business meetings
• Attend conferences
• Develop professional business contacts
• Tour a company facility

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for the Lebanon?

EU, Canadian, US, and many other select nationals require a visa to enter Lebanon to conduct business activities. BAL recommends that business visitors who require a visa to enter Lebanon must obtain a business visa, otherwise known as an Entry Visa for Business from a Lebanese Consulate or Embassy, prior to travel. For urgent travel, some select nationals may obtain a business visa on arrival.

Nationals of some countries are required to obtain pre-approval from the Ministry of Labor for business travel.

Nationals of Israel, or foreign nationals who have entered Israel and possess an Israeli entry stamp will be denied entry to Lebanon.

Working in Lebanon

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

In Lebanon, the requirement for a work permit is generally determined by the duration and nature of the work assignment. Most professional activities do not require work authorization if conducted for less than 90 days, provided the assignee remains on foreign payroll. Professional activities conducted for more than 90 days per calendar year require a work permit.

If I am traveling to Lebanon for work, what type of work permit do I need?

Whether you require a work permit depends on your qualifications, whether your employer has an entity in Lebanon, and the nature of your work. The most common Lebanese work permit is the Work Permit (direct-hire work permit).

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work permit requirements?

There are no nationals who are exempt from the work permit requirement in Lebanon.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization eligibility entail careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman& Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.