# How to Get a Syrian Visa for Tourists: Syria Link

Complete guide to Syria tourist visas: requirements, security clearance, costs, and the application process through a licensed tour operator.
**By Iyad Abo Al Shamat, Syria Travel Specialist at Syria Link**
**Category**: Syria History

## Overview

Obtaining a tourist visa for Syria is rather simple. Book a tour through a trusted travel agency, then collect the visa when you enter Syria. The Syria Link team handles all the formalities before and after you receive your tourist visa.

## Who Needs a Visa to Enter Syria?

The Syrian government requires almost all nationalities to hold a visa, which can be obtained through a Syrian embassy or consulate.

* **Saudi, Emirati, Qatari, and Kuwaiti nationals:** can obtain a visa on arrival.
* **Iraqi, Libyan, and Egyptian nationals:** are prohibited from entering except through a company in an official capacity or with a sponsor.
* **Bahraini nationals:** can obtain a visa through an office, a company, or relatives; processing takes 20 days.
* **Lebanese nationals:** visa processing takes 5 days.
* **American, Chinese, and Russian nationals:** are subject to restrictions; visa processing takes between 1 month and 1 month and 2 weeks.
* **British nationals:** visa processing takes between 4 days and 1 week.
* **Iranian and Israeli nationals:** entry into Syrian territory is prohibited.

## Syrian Visa Requirements

Travelers who need to arrange a visa before arrival can apply using one of two methods:

* **Through a Syrian embassy or consulate:** only available to independent travelers who have a Syrian national provide the necessary invitation.
* **Through a tour operator (strongly recommended):** a tourist visa is obtained by reserving a travel package through a licensed domestic tour operator approved by the Syrian Ministry of Tourism. You won't need to visit the embassy because documentation is handled at the border.

## What Is a Security Clearance?

A security clearance is a document issued by the Syrian Ministry of Interior that gives you permission to enter Syria. In most cases, your travel agency must submit a request to obtain a pre-travel security clearance. Processing times vary by nationality. A security clearance is required for most nationalities, particularly those from western nations including the US, UK, Canada, and many more.

## Visa Costs and Duration

Syria's single-entry tourist visa fee for most nationalities is $55, collected in USD at the border crossing point or airport. The fee varies based on your nationality, visa duration, and purpose of trip.

Visa processing times depend on nationality, as outlined above. With a single-entry tourist visa, you can remain in Syria for up to 15 days. Visa extensions can only be done through the Immigration and Passports Department in Damascus with a compelling reason.


[View this article online](https://syrialink.net/blog/syrian-visa-guide/)