Lebanon

When traveling to Lebanon, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Lebanon, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend business and sales meetings
• » Attend conferences and trade shows
• » Tour a company facility

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

Most foreign nationals traveling to Lebanon to engage in ordinary business activities are required to obtain a Business Visa from a Lebanese Embassy or Consulate prior to travel.

While some nationalities in certain professions may be eligible for a Visa on Arrival, in practice it is generally recommended that all foreign nationals obtain a Business Visa prior to travel to avoid any potential delays or issues at the time of entry.

What types of activities require work authorization?

Business visitors may generally participate in productive hands-on professional activities, such as technical training, systems installation, and repairs and maintenance, on a short-term basis without obtaining work authorization.

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

Requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Lebanon. All foreign nationals who intend to reside in Lebanon and engage in remunerated, hands-on work are required to obtain work authorization in the form of a Work Permit and Temporary Residence Permit.

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

Activities related to drilling and oil extraction may be eligible for an exemption to long-term work authorization requirements, subject to the approval of the Lebanese Petroleum Administration (LPA). Other conditions and registrations may apply before exempt foreign nationals are eligible to work and reside in Lebanon. Please consult with your immigration counsel for an individual assessment before traveling to determine eligibility for a long-term work authorization exemption.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the 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.