Skip to main content

Libya Visa for United States Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

US citizens can apply for a Libyan e-visa (e-visa) before travel through the Libyan embassy portal; typical processing is 5–10 business days and tourist e-visas start around USD 60.

Guide last updated September 3, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Libya.
  • Specific forms: Libyan e-visa online application via the Libyan embassy site; US citizens do not submit DS-160; use the Libyan e-visa portal linked from the embassy site.
  • Financial proof: Usually not required, but if requested provide bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds to cover the stay and the e-visa fee.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter) and a return/onward ticket details.
  • Photo spec: Two recent passport-style color photos, 35x45 mm (2x2 inches), white background, taken within the last 6 months; full face visible; no glasses.
  • Biometrics: Biometrics are not normally required as part of the online e-visa; if requested, you will be directed to the embassy or visa center.
  • Travel health insurance: Recommended but not mandatory.

Visa types

  • Libya Tourist e-Visa: Official nameLibya Tourist e-Visa. Validity 90 days from issue; max stay 30 days per visit; entry: single; approximate fee USD 60 (LYD ~ 1680 depending on rate).
  • Libya Business e-Visa: Official nameLibya Business e-Visa. Validity 90 days from issue; max stay 30 days; entry: single; approximate fee USD 100 (LYD ~ 2800).
  • Libya Student e-Visa: Official nameLibya Student e-Visa. Validity up to 12 months; max stay up to 12 months per visit; entry: single; approximate fee USD 80 (LYD ~ 2240).
  • Libya Work e-Visa: Official nameLibya Work e-Visa. Validity up to 12 months; max stay up to 12 months; entry: single; approximate fee USD 120 (LYD ~ 3360).
  • Libya Transit e-Visa: Official nameLibya Transit e-Visa. Validity 7 days; max stay 7 days; entry: single; approximate fee USD 40 (LYD ~ 1120).

How to apply online

  • How to apply online: Go to the Libyan embassy portal linked from https://www.embassyoflibya.org/ and access the e-visa portal.
  • Steps: 1) Create an account; 2) choose visa type (Tourist, Business, Student, Work, or Transit) and complete the online form; 3) upload required documents (passport bio page, photos, accommodation/invitation letter, etc.); 4) pay the visa fee with a card (USD shown; local currency equivalent displayed during checkout); 5) receive confirmation and the e-visa via email or portal.
  • Fee (local + USD): Visa fees are shown in USD during checkout; local currency equivalent will be displayed at that time. Typical ranges: Tourist USD 60, Business USD 100, Student USD 80, Work USD 120, Transit USD 40.
  • Processing time: Typically 5–10 business days; expedited processing may be available in some cases for an additional fee and is not guaranteed.
  • How approval arrives: The approved e-visa is delivered through the portal and/or by email; print a copy to carry and present on entry.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee (USD, approximate): Tourist 60; Business 100; Student 80; Work 120; Transit 40.
  • Local currency (LYD) equivalent: Approximate values shown during checkout; conversion fluctuates with exchange rates.
  • VFS/BLS service fee: Not applicable for e-visa; if you pursue a sticker visa via an embassy process, separate service fees may apply (not for online e-visa).
  • Total cost estimate: E-visa fees per category plus any optional expedited processing charges.
  • Standard processing time: 5–10 working days.
  • Express/priority option: May be offered in some cases for an extra fee; actual availability varies and is not guaranteed.

Tips for United States travelers

  • When to apply: Begin 2–4 weeks before travel; for peak times or security considerations, aim for 4–8 weeks ahead.
  • Common rejection reasons for US applicants: Incomplete or inconsistent information, passport validity less than 6 months, missing invitation/ accommodation proof for business or student cases, and mismatched travel dates.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: Libya operates primarily through its official e-visa portal linked from the embassy site for Libyan e-visas; avoid third-party services that are not linked by the official embassy portal.
  • Travel advisories: The US State Department has frequently issued high-level advisories for Libya; current status should be checked before planning travel (often Level 4 Do Not Travel); comply with border and security guidance and maintain updated alerts.
  • Extension options inside Libya: Extensions are not generally guaranteed or routinely available; if you anticipate needing more time, plan to apply for a new e-visa from outside Libya or exit and re-enter as permitted by Libyan authorities.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United States passport holders

United KingdomFranceGermanyJapanAustraliaCanadaView all →

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.