U.S. Embassy Tunis

North East Zone
Les Berges du Lac
1053 Tunis, Tunisia
Telephone Outside of Office Hours, from Libya (WhatsApp calling enabled): +216 29 980 978
Telephone:+(216) 71-107-000, press 0 and ask for the Libya Office consular officer.
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(216) 58 575 409
Fax: +(216) 71-964-360
Email: TunisACS@state.gov

There is currently no U.S. Embassy in Libya.  Questions may be addressed to the Libya External Office located in Tunis.

Inquiries regarding U.S. citizens in Libya may be directed to the Department of State’s Office of Overseas Citizens Services. Callers in the United States and Canada may dial the toll-free number 1-888-407-4747. Callers outside the United States and Canada may dial 1-202-501-4444.

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Libya for information on U.S.-Libya relations.

Passports and Visas:

Passports and visas are required for all U.S. citizens traveling to Libya.

• Contact the Libyan Embassy in Washington, D.C. for information on visa application procedures.
• The Government of Libya does not allow persons with passports bearing an Israeli visa or entry/exit stamps from Israel to enter Libya.
• All visa applications are vetted by Libyan authorities and are only issued by the appropriate Libyan Embassy upon receipt of approval by the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Visas for U.S. passport holders are not available at the port of entry.
• Do not use a tourist visa to enter Libya for business purposes, or you risk arrest.
• U.S. citizens should apply for Libyan visas in the place they are resident.

Business Visas: You must obtain an invitation from or sponsorship by a company operating in Libya. U.S. citizens who apply for Libyan business visas often experience significant delays, regularly waiting several weeks or months for their visas.

Dual Citizens: U.S.-Libyan citizens need valid passports from both countries.

U.S. citizens must enter and exit the United States using their U.S. passport, and Libya requires Libyan citizens to use their Libyan passports when entering and exiting Libya.

Entry/Exit Requirements:

• Libya’s land borders with Egypt and Tunisia are subject to periodic closures. Short-term closures of other land borders may occur with little notice.
• Within three days of arrival in Libya, visitors must register at the police station closest to where they are residing.
• Some HIV and AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Libya. Please verify this information with the http://www.embassyoflibyadc.org/ before you travel.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack U.S. citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The following groups, which are on the U.S. government’s list of designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations, pose a high risk to U.S. citizens in the region:

• The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS)-Libya
• Al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM)

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Libya and the surrounding region. The most recent terrorist attack in Libya occurred in 2021. Extremists have kidnapped foreigners.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime:

• Crime levels and the threat of kidnapping throughout the country remain high.
• Crimes of opportunity are commonplace, particularly against people who appear to be wealthy or of foreign nationality.

Political Violence:

Clashes among armed groups, including government-aligned forces, occur periodically throughout the country, including Tripoli and other urban areas.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams: Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Libya. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Most scammers pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. For more information on international financial scams, see our page on Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS navigation apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app, research the route to make sure it is safe.  GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.

Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Tunis for assistance. Victims of sexual assault have little recourse in Libya, and women who report sexual crimes may be accused of adultery and are at risk of further violence against them if they are unable to prove that a crime occurred under a high standard of proof in the Libyan judicial system.

Victims may wish to report crimes to the local police station closest to where they are residing and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(216) 71-107-000, or +216 29 980 978 for WhatsApp calling capabilities. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victims compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of destitution. 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

Domestic Violence: Libya does not have any laws prohibiting or criminalizing domestic violence. U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy in Tunis for assistance.

Tourism:

No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place on any level. Tourists are considered to be participating in activities at their own risk. Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment is not available in-country, except in Tripoli. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties:

You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.

In Libya:

• You may be detained for questioning if you do not have your passport with you.
• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings, especially military and government facilities.
• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Driving under the influence can result in immediate detention. Alcohol is also prohibited, and possessing, using, or trafficking in alcohol can carry severe penalties.
• Customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning the introduction into Libya or removal from Libya of firearms, religious materials, antiquities, medications, and currency.
• The importation and consumption of alcohol, pornography, and pork products are illegal.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy in Tunis immediately. See our webpage for further information.

If you are detained in Libya, the Department of State may not be notified. Department of State officials cannot visit detained U.S. citizens in Libya, due to security reasons throughout the country and the suspended operating status of the U.S. Embassy in Libya. Since most law enforcement is currently performed by armed groups under varying degrees of government control, there are few clear legal processes. During your detention, you may not be provided with basic toiletries or appropriate nutrition.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries. They may be illegal according to local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. Review the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Dual Nationality:

• U.S. citizens of Libyan origin may also be subject to laws that impose special obligations on Libyan citizens.
• The Government of Libya considers all children born to Libyan fathers to be Libyan citizens, even if they were not issued a Libyan birth certificate or a Libyan passport. Women married to foreign nationals cannot pass their nationality to their children. Women may confer nationality to children if the fathers are unknown, stateless, or do not establish filiation. Women cannot confer nationality to spouses.
• Dual Libyan-U.S. citizens may not enter or leave Libya on their U.S. passports and must obtain a Libyan travel document before traveling to Libya.
•  Persons with dual nationality who travel to Libya on their Libyan passports are normally treated as Libyan citizens by the local government.
• The U.S. Department of State’s ability to provide consular assistance to those traveling on Libyan passports is extremely limited.
• For additional information, please see our information on dual nationality.

Faith-Based Travelers: Proselytizing is illegal in Libya. Penalties are severe. In addition to possibly facing the death penalty, proselytizers may be the target of extra-judicial killings.

Review the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Gay and Lesbian Travelers: Consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Libya with a penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment or flogging. Authorities may disproportionately enforce other public-order laws against lesbian, gay, and bisexual persons to justify arbitrary arrest. Discrimination against individuals on the basis of sexual orientation is codified in some local laws. There have been reports of physical violence, harassment, and blackmail based on sexual orientation. There have been reports of armed groups detaining individuals suspected of being gay or lesbian.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Libya does not explicitly prohibit discrimination against persons with “special needs.” However, Libyan law describes the provision of financial and other social assistance to protect disabled persons with respect to employment, education, access to health care, and provision of other government services. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Review our Travelers with Disabilities page.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers: Women and girls in Libya, particularly those with relatives of Libyan origin, as well as other Western travelers, are at increased risk of forced marriage, abduction, and kidnapping in Libya.

Women travelling alone or with children, including foreigners and U.S. citizens, have been stopped, questioned, or harassed by authorities for travelling without a male guardian throughout Libya or when attempting to exit the country. Male guardianship is not mandatory under current Libyan law, but Libyan authorities frequently require it. Women and men travelling together may be asked to provide a marriage certificate to verify their relationship.

Even when accompanied by a male guardian, women have been intimidated, threatened, and detained by armed groups, extremists, or other individuals for “un-Islamic” behavior. Women are expected to wear clothing that meets strict modesty standards and may be stopped or harassed if they are dressed in a manner that is deemed immodest. Women and girls who have been detained in Libya also report being victims of acts of sexual violence inflicted by authorities or armed group members.

Victims of sexual assault have little recourse in Libya. Women who report sexual crimes may be accused of adultery and are at risk of further violence against them if they are unable to prove that a crime occurred under a high standard of proof in the Libyan judicial system.

Find more information about the specific risks that women face in Libya through our Libya Travel Advisory and the Country Security Report.

See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

For emergency services in Libya, dial 1515.

Ambulance services are:

• Not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• Not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except Tripoli. Even in Tripoli, ambulances are not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Health Facilities:

• Adequate health facilities are available in Tripoli, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. Review our Health Abroad page for more information.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health page. CDC Traveler Advice provides advice on medical considerations including:

• Select your destination in the Travelers’ Health webpage. Review all sub-sections including Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
• General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Review our Insurance Overseas page for more information on insurance providers with overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Insurance page for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

• We strongly recommend getting traveler’s insurance, including supplemental medical evacuation insurance, before traveling.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Embassy of Libya to ensure the medication is legal in Libya.

Bring enough supplies of over-the-counter and prescription medicines to last your entire stay in Libya.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization Travel advice page
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page

Air Quality:

• Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.
• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses AI, historical data, and global pollution models to create a 3-day air quality forecast for Libya. For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals here. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Road Conditions and Safety: Roadside assistance is extremely limited and offered only in Arabic. Wind-blown sand can reduce visibility without warning. During rainstorms, roads will flood. Very few streets are marked or have signage, and highway signs are normally only in Arabic. Paved roads in rural areas are satisfactory; however, many rural roads are unpaved.

Traffic Laws: There is a high accident rate and traffic laws are rarely enforced.

Public Transportation: Public transportation is limited. Taxis are available, but taxi drivers may be reckless and untrained. English-speaking drivers are extremely rare.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:

 The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Libya’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

The FAA has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) which prohibits U.S. civil aviation from flying into or over Libya. Further information may be found on the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices webpage.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Libya should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at: https://www.maritime.dot.gov/. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings website.  Navigational warnings can be found under the “Current Warnings” section for the applicable NAVAREA from within the NGA site.

Port Security: The Commandant of the Coast Guard has determined that effective anti-terrorism measures are not in place in Libyan ports and has imposed conditions of entry on vessels that arrive in U.S. ports having visited ports in Libya. Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of Libya should exercise increased caution.

Please see the U.S. Department of State’s Fact Sheet for Libya.