Lebanon
Lebanon travel guide for Americans
US citizens need a visa (e‑visa or visa on arrival) for Lebanon; apply online before travel or obtain on arrival at Beirut airport, then you can stay up to 30 days, extendable. Change to skip if you hold a diplomatic passport or a valid residence permit for a neighboring country.
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GuideLebanon
Key facts
- Visa required
- e‑visa or visa on arrival (30 days, extendable)
- Visa feecheck
- USD 35 (e‑visa) or USD 50 (on‑arrival)
- Currency used
- Lebanese pound (LBP) and US dollars
- Plug typecheck
- C & D, 230 V
- Tipping normcheck
- 5‑10 % in restaurants, round up taxis
Entry requirements for US citizens
US passport holders must obtain a visa before arrival or receive a visa on arrival at Beirut–Rafic Hariri Airport. The e‑visa can be applied online and is usually processed within 3‑5 business days.
The visa allows a stay of up to 30 days, which can be extended at the General Security Directorate in Beirut. A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date is required.
- Apply online at the official e‑visa portal (check)
- Pay USD 35 for e‑visa, USD 50 for on‑arrival visa
- Bring a printed copy of the visa approval (if e‑visa) to present on arrival
US Embassy in Lebanon
The US Embassy is located in Beirut. It provides consular services, passport assistance, and emergency support for US citizens.
| Service | Contact |
|---|---|
| Address | Beirut, Lebanon (check) |
| Phone | +961 1 XXXXXXX (check) |
| Emergency | Dial 911 in Lebanon or call the US Embassy 24‑hour hotline |
Estimated travel costs in USD
Lebanon uses the Lebanese pound, but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in hotels, restaurants and shops. Budget travellers can manage with a modest cash amount.
| Category | Daily cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Budget hostel | 15‑30 |
| Mid‑range hotel | 50‑120 |
| Meals (local) | 5‑15 |
| Meals (Western) | 15‑30 |
| Transport (taxi/mini‑bus) | 2‑5 per ride |
Flights from the United States
Direct flights to Beirut are limited; most US travellers connect via European hubs such as Istanbul, Paris or Frankfurt. Typical total travel time from New York to Beirut is 12‑15 hours including layover.
- Main US departure airports: JFK, IAD, ORD, LAX
- Major airlines: Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air France
- Check the flight‑time planner tool for exact durations
Electricity and plugs
Lebanon uses Type C and D plugs, 230 V, 50 Hz. US travellers should bring a universal adapter and, if their devices are not dual‑voltage, a voltage converter.
Tipping etiquette
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In restaurants leave 5‑10 % of the bill, rounding up for small meals. Hotel staff and drivers appreciate modest tips of a few dollars.
Emergency contacts
112 – Police (general emergency)
140 – Red Cross ambulance
175 – Civil defence (check)
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Lebanon?
Yes. US citizens must obtain an e‑visa before travel or receive a visa on arrival at Beirut airport, valid for 30 days and extendable.
How much does a trip to Lebanon cost in USD?
Budget travellers can manage on about USD 30‑50 per day (hostel, local meals, transport); mid‑range visitors spend roughly USD 80‑150 daily.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Lebanon?
The US Embassy is in Beirut, providing consular assistance and emergency services for US citizens.
What is the tipping etiquette in Lebanon?
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In restaurants, leave 5-10% of the bill, rounding up for small meals. Hotel staff and drivers appreciate modest tips of a few dollars.
What plug type is used in Lebanon?
Lebanon uses Type C and D plugs, 230 V, 50 Hz. US travellers should bring a universal adapter and, if their devices are not dual-voltage, a voltage converter.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
Ask about Lebanon
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