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Syria Visa Policy

Before starting the conflict in Syria in 2011, Syria had a vibrant visa policy that granted visa-free access to many foreign nationals from Europe, Africa, Asia, and America. 

Under the previous policy, visitors were notably allowed to visit either without a visa or they could get a visa on arrival at selected entry routes. However, the government was forced to scrap the policy as the country's situation worsened and violence escalated.

By 2014, the government introduced a new visa policy for all foreigners to replace the free entry and exit policy that was initially in force. Despite introducing a new policy, the situation in Syria remains unstable, and data for the new policy still need to be updated for now. Different sources project different information while official government outlets release conflicting information, so it can take a lot of work to ascertain the official position of the Syrian government.

The Syrian authorities maintain that most foreigners must obtain a visa from any of their foreign missions abroad before their arrival.

Visa Exemption

While most foreigners must secure a visa before their arrival, a few nationalities don't need visas to enter Syria. Citizens of GCC countries and a few other Arab and non-Arab countries can enter Syria without a visa. 

However, there is conflicting data for the visa-exempt list as there are reports that supposed citizens from some countries on the list are still denied entry without a visa or an issued one at the entry point.

Visa On Arrival

The visa-on-arrival program remains active, and citizens of the former USSR, excluding citizens of Baltic states in Europe, are issued visas on arrival. Foreigners from some African, Asian, European, and American countries are also issued visas on arrival. Citizens from most Arab countries don't need visas for entry. Occasionally, eligible visitors are denied this visa due to the country's prevailing tensions and security reasons. Instead, they are advised to obtain a visa in advance.

Political Implications

One factor that influences the visa policy of the Syrian government is the political dynamics. In some cases, citizens from eligible countries for visa-free entry or visa on arrival are denied entry due to their home governments' position at the time towards the Syrian regime. Citizens whose governments take an official Pro- Western or Anti- Russian stance are not allowed into Syria as visa-free visitors or issued visas on arrival.

The situation remains volatile, so the official visa position of Syria towards foreign nations is hugely influenced by geopolitics.

Entry Bans

Israeli nationals are not allowed to transit or enter Syria for any reason because the country is on the banned list. This ban remains even if they will remain in their aircraft throughout the time the plane is on Syrian soil. Syria's government considers Israel an enemy state, so holders of Israeli passports are denied entry into Syria. This ban is also extended to nationals of other countries who have visited Israel previously or have any connection with Israel.

Furthermore, Palestinian citizens are denied entry into the Syrian Arab Republic in many cases despite both countries maintaining friendly relations. Palestinians are not banned from entering Syria but must obtain a special entry permit in advance. A few other countries are also on Syria's banned list. Visit the current list to know if your country is on it.

Key Information About Syria Visa And Travel Tips

The situation in Syria remains volatile, so here are some vital travel and visa application tips to keep in mind.

Check Your Eligibility: The visa policy of the Syrian government changes according to the prevailing climate of ever-changing geopolitics. These factors influence the eligibility list, which will likely continue for some time. Before applying for a visa, consult the eligibility list to see if visitors from your country are eligible for visa free entry; if not, apply for a consular visa by forwarding your application to the nearest Syrian embassy or consulate.

Travel Through Approved Routes: To protect yourself, always travel to and out of Syria through approved routes because they are manned by Syrian forces round the clock. If you use unapproved routes, you expose yourself to high risk. Please always remember this!

Use The Same Passport: Your Syrian visa will be linked to your passport, which you used to apply for. Make sure to use the same passport for your trip if you have two. Also, the visa expires immediately the passport it is linked to  expires.

Be Security Conscious: Always be Security conscious in public places. Avoid crowded spots as much as possible and don't visit or stay in places with little or no military or police presence. Also, keep your eyes on the news and don't make the trip if hostilities escalate.

Application Fee: The application fee must be paid by all applicants; otherwise, they can't submit their application form. This fee must be paid using any method approved by the authorities. Please remember that the fee is for processing your application and does not indicate that the visa will be issued. Only those who meet the requirements will get the visa.

Safety: The situation in Syria remains volatile despite large sections of the country coming under the influence of rye central government in Damascus. Some areas are still under the control of armed insurgents and clashes against government forces are rampant. Avoid conflict flashpoints or crowded areas as they are targets for terrorist attacks. Also check the news for information before leaving your abode and it is best to move with a guide who knows the area well.

Health Control: Medical supplies can be scarce especially in areas worst hit by the war. Consider bringing medication in case you may need it at some point.  Also note that hospitals are overloaded and getting medical attention can take more time than usual. Consult your doctor to know whether you need any vaccine before your trip.

Syria e-Visa Online – Get your Syria e-Visa with VisaHQ

Despite being embroiled in a civil war, the government of Syria is gradually opening up its borders to the rest of the world as the war draws to a close. Visitors can now apply for a visa if they are not eligible for visa-free entry.

How To Apply For Visa With VisaHQ 

If you want to apply for a visa with VisaHQ, you only need to follow a few nice and easy steps. This is what you do.

Application form: There is an online application form on VisaHQ that you must complete. The application form will contain your travel, personal, and passport data, so endeavor to fill it out carefully.

Upload documents: Scanned copies of your travel document must be uploaded where appropriate in the form.

Pay the fee: You should pay the visa application fee with your card online before submitting the form.

Get a visa: The authorities will take 1-5 days to process the application, and the visa will be released to you through your email address. With this document, you can travel. 

Why Use VisaHQ?

You should use VisaHQ for online visa applications for more than a few reasons. Trusting us with your applications is smart because we have the resources and information to make your application successful. With more than two decades of experience, you get the quality service you desire with VisaHQ. Our applicants can

• Complete their applications in minutes without stress
• Get support from our technical staff
• Apply for as many visas as they want
• They can track their application online