Travel Report for Lebanon

Country Profile for
Lebanon

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: November 22, 2006 14:43 EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 21:54 EST

Lebanon

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed. A minor editorial change has been made in Section 10.

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2. ATTENTION

See our Current Issues page for information on the assassination of the Lebanese Minister of Industry.

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to this country. (IDW7)

You are advised against all non-essential travel to Lebanon.

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)

You are advised against all travel to the area south of the Litani River, especially the areas near the border with Israel.

In the last two years, a series of targeted bombings, grenade attacks and political assassinations, including assassination of Lebanese Industry Minister Pierre Gemayel on November 21, 2006, have taken place in different areas of Beirut, injuring more than a hundred people and resulting in several deaths. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security at all times.

Although a ceasefire came into effect on August 14, 2006, and UN troops are currently deployed in Lebanon, the security situation remains fragile and could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Mass street demonstrations may develop rapidly and should be avoided. Canadians are encouraged to monitor local developments and ensure that all their identification and travel documents are up to date.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance pose a significant threat, particularly in the South. Travellers should be aware of posted landmine warnings, stay on paved roads, and avoid walking or driving cross-country.

There is considerable military activity in the areas around the Shebaa Farms. The security situation remains volatile. Canadians are strongly advised to avoid all large gatherings and demonstrations.

Travel to Palestinian refugee camps, including areas in and around Sidon, should be avoided as the security situation in this area is often tense. Tensions are high due to recent events, and Canadians who need to visit these areas should exercise the utmost caution and discretion.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to this country despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.

There is an increased threat of terrorism in Lebanon due to heightened tensions and an ongoing political crisis. A series of targeted bombings and grenade attacks have taken place in different areas of Beirut since February 2004, injuring more than a hundred people and resulting in several deaths. The largest of these bombings took place on February 14, 2005, killing former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri and several other people. Massive public protests in Beirut, Sidon, and other cities, both for and against the Syrian military presence in Lebanon, were followed by Syria's removal of its forces from Lebanon in April 2005.

Heightened tensions throughout the region, together with increased threats globally from terrorism, put Canadians at greater risk. Canadians should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, including those against civilian targets, such as pedestrian promenades, shopping malls, open markets, restaurants, discotheques, cinemas, and other places frequented by foreigners.

The violence in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza has raised the possibility of demonstrations in support of Palestinians throughout the Middle East and elsewhere in the world. While Lebanese authorities have acted to prevent demonstrations from becoming violent, the potential for further protests remains high. Security conditions remain unpredictable. Canadians should listen to and observe all warnings issued by Lebanese authorities and take appropriate precautions.

Lebanon is subject to Israeli overflights breaking the sound barrier, causing sonic booms that can be confused with the sound of detonation.

Hezbollah maintains a presence in the South and in several other areas, including the Beqaa Valley. Forces other than the Lebanese military exert a large amount of control in some of those areas.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

There is a highly visible security presence throughout the country. Canadians should carry full personal documentation and obey the instructions of security personnel. Canadians of Lebanese descent carrying Lebanese identification documents will be treated as Lebanese nationals by security officials. Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide consular services in cases where a dual national runs into difficulty.

The crime rate is moderate. Petty crime, car thefts, and residential break-ins occur. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents are secure. Keep photocopies of all your documents in safe-keeping facilities. Travellers may call the Tourist Police at (01) 343-209 in the event of a problem.

The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: Advice for the Woman Traveller, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Congestion and aggressive drivers are a problem in cities. Rural roads are poorly maintained, and drivers have little regard for traffic laws. Pedestrians should exercise great caution.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Lebanon is located in a seismic zone, although there have been no major earth tremors in recent years. Dust storms and sand storms frequently occur. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Beirut (see Section 7 below) in the event of an emergency.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs may result in jail sentences and heavy fines. Individuals charged with drug offences can expect to remain in jail and to be denied bail while judicial authorities prepare their cases for prosecution.

Canadians should present themselves as Canadian to foreign authorities and use their Canadian passport at all times. Holding dual Canadian-Lebanese nationality may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services.

Lebanese males, aged between 18 and 30 years old, are subject to mandatory one-year military service. Dual nationals who visit Lebanon are not exempt, unless permitted by Lebanese law. Dual national males should check with the Embassy of Lebanon in Ottawa (see Section 8 below) to determine if they are eligible for an exemption and to obtain information on the procedures for securing any allowable exemption prior to their departure from Canada. Lebanese males of military-service age will be apprehended at the airport upon arrival. They should present, ready for inspection, all required documents (including all expired Canadian passports issued in the last five years and a letter from the Lebanese Embassy regarding permanent residency status). They will also be directed by airport authorities to report to the Ministry of Defence. For more information on military service in Lebanon, visit the Lebanese Army website.

The dress code in Lebanon is more relaxed than in most countries in the Middle East. However, modest dress and behaviour consistent with local customs and sensitivities are recommended. Sleeveless garments and shorts may be acceptable at tourist locations but should be avoided elsewhere, especially when visiting sites of religious significance, such as churches and mosques. Physical contact between men and women should also be avoided in public places.

During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), visitors should use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on or about September 24, 2006.

Homosexual activity is illegal.

Exercise caution when taking photographs of areas around Hezbollah quarters and non-tourist sites. It is prohibited to photograph or videotape government buildings, military personnel, equipment, and installations.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Lebanon - BEIRUT, Embassy of Canada
Address: First Floor, Coolrite Building, 43 Jal El Dib Highway, Beirut, Lebanon
Postal Address: P.O. Box 60163, Jal El Dib, Lebanon
Tel.: 961 (4) 713-900
Fax: 961 (4) 710-595
E-mail: berut-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/beirut

Working hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Beirut and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Lebanon is 01-423-935 (not available from pay phones). A Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Lebanese authorities and was valid on October 25, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of Lebanon and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Lebanon. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Canadians must also be in possession of a visa. Although tourist visas are now available at a port of entry, Canadians should ensure that they obtain their Lebanese visa prior to their arrival.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

Canadians have been denied entry into Lebanon because their passports bore: a) an Israeli visa; b) an Israeli border stamp; or c) an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel (such a stamp would indicate the traveller has been to Israel).

Your passport must show a Lebanese entry visa and immigration entry stamp to exit the country. Persons who acquire a new passport while in Lebanon must present their old passport containing these items to authorities upon departure. Lebanese-Canadians travelling on a Canadian passport are regarded as foreigners. Such persons must obtain an exit visa if they have not obtained an entry visa in their Canadian passport upon arrival or are not in possession of a valid Lebanese passport.

An expired entry visa must be extended by Lebanese authorities or else you will not be allowed to leave the country. Extensions of one month (on three-month visas) are given by the Airport Branch of General Security. However, service at the airport is granted only if the visa has not already been extended. All other extension cases are treated by the Foreign Department of General Security at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which provides one-week extensions. In general, persons who entered Lebanon prior to August 1997 can obtain an exit visa free of charge, but those who entered after August 1997 may have to pay for one. If your entry visa has expired and you have overstayed it by less than one year, an extension (or exit visa) will be granted free of charge. If you have overstayed your entry visa by more than one year, you will be required to pay a fine.

Canadians travelling in the Middle East are advised that their passports could come under increased scrutiny by immigration authorities, and the authenticity of their passports could be questioned due to incidents of possible misuse. Canadians experiencing problems are encouraged to contact the nearest Canadian government office or Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa for advice and assistance.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the Lebanese pound (LBP). Some establishments will accept payment in U.S. dollars but may return change in Lebanese pounds. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide.

Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

The Lebanese Republic (capital: Beirut) is located in the Middle East, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and Syria. The official language is Arabic. English and French are often spoken in large establishments, such as hotels, banks, department stores, and restaurants. Lebanon is a parliamentary republic with a National Assembly equally divided between Christians and Muslims.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Modern medical care and medicines are widely available in Beirut and surrounding areas. Such facilities are not always available in outlying areas. Medical services can be very expensive, and payment in advance is often required. A list of local medical and dental practitioners is available from the Embassy of Canada in Beirut upon request.

Increased awareness is necessary when eating and drinking due to the effect of electrical power disruptions on refrigeration.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

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18. ANNEX

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