Travel Advisory for Lebanon
28 September 2024
In view of the volatile situation in the region, Singaporeans are advised to defer all travel to Lebanon. Singaporeans currently in Lebanon should leave the country immediately via commercial options while they remain available. Singaporeans who choose to remain in Lebanon should remain vigilant, monitor local developments closely and heed the advice of the Lebanese government. They should also avoid protests and large gatherings, as well as avoid travel to southern Beirut and southern Lebanon, including the Lebanon-Israel border areas.
Singaporeans in Lebanon are strongly encouraged to eRegister with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg so that we can contact them should the need arise. Those who need consular assistance while in Lebanon may contact the Singapore Honorary Consulate-General in Beirut or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24 hours) at:
Honorary Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Beirut
Address: Center Sofil, Charles Malek Avenue
Achrafieh, Beirut, Lebanon
P.O.Box 166730
Telephone: +961-1-334-335, 200-786, 200-787
Email: singaporeconsulate@cyberia.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24 hr)
Address: Tanglin, Singapore 248163
Tel: +65 6379 8800 / 8855
Fax: +65 6476 7302
Email: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.
Singaporeans may obtain a visa-on-arrival.
As immigration requirements can change at short notice, travellers are advised to check with their travel agent or the Consulate of Lebanon in Singapore for the latest information.
You may be refused entry, held for questioning, or deported if your passport contains an Israeli entry or exit stamp, Egyptian or Jordanian land crossing stamps that show you have travelled to Israel, or tickets and itineraries that include Israel.
All travellers’ names are checked against a database upon arrival and during departure. Border alerts or “Stop Orders” can be issued for those who are wanted for, or convicted of, offences in Lebanon. If your name matches an entry on the Stop Order list, you will be detained unless you can prove that the record does not relate to you. As there have been cases of mistaken identity, you may wish to bring along other forms of identification, such as birth certificate, for verification purposes.
Terrorist attacks have occurred in the past. There is also a threat of kidnapping in Lebanon. Be alert and follow the advice of the local authorities.
Civil unrest can occur with little warning and escalate quickly. Monitor the local news and avoid areas of demonstrations.
Drug offences carry heavy penalties, including long prison sentences. Pack your own luggage and be cautious of accepting ‘gifts’ from strangers or new acquaintances.
Photography should be limited to tourist areas. It is an offence to photograph military, government, and civil installations.
Religious law has the same standing as civil law. Under Lebanese family law, individuals can prevent their family members, including foreigners, from leaving the country with a “Stop Order”. Consult a lawyer before departure if necessary.
Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]
Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.
Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.
When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.
For those planning to travel, here are some tips:
Before travelling
While travelling
Advisory: Email Scams
There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.
MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.
Ask MFA