Entry Requirements & Visas
Important Advisory for 2025: Travel Restrictions
Due to ongoing security concerns, many governments advise against all travel to Syria. If proceeding, verify the latest requirements through your embassy, as entry protocols can change rapidly. Visas are mandatory for most visitors and often require pre-approval.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Syria, with multiple blank pages for entry/exit stamps and potential transit visas.
Ensure no Israeli stamps or travel history to Israel, as this can lead to denial of entry. Always carry photocopies of your passport while traveling within the country.
Visa-Free Countries
Syria offers visa-free entry or visas on arrival to a limited number of nationalities, primarily from certain Arab countries like Jordan, UAE, and Lebanon for short stays up to 90 days.
Most other visitors, including those from the US, EU, and UK, require a pre-arranged visa. Check with the Syrian embassy in your home country for exemptions, as policies evolve.
Visa Applications
Apply for a visa through a Syrian embassy or consulate abroad, submitting an application form, passport photos, proof of onward travel, and a letter of invitation from a Syrian sponsor or tour operator (fees around $50-100).
Processing can take 2-4 weeks; expedited options may be available for $150. Include evidence of sufficient funds (at least $50/day) and comprehensive travel insurance covering evacuation.
Border Crossings
Main entry points include Damascus International Airport (limited flights), or overland via Lebanon (Beirut to Masnaa border) or Jordan (Amman to Deraa), where you'll need to present your pre-approved visa.
Expect thorough security checks and possible delays; avoid unofficial crossings due to risks. Coordinate with licensed guides for safe passage in controlled areas.
Travel Insurance
Secure comprehensive insurance that includes medical evacuation, as standard policies may exclude Syria due to conflict zones; look for specialist providers like those covering high-risk destinations (starting at $10/day).
Coverage should extend to trip cancellations, theft, and emergency repatriation. Register your travel with your government's smart traveler program for added support.
Extensions Possible
Visa extensions for up to 30 days can be requested at the Immigration Office in Damascus, requiring a valid reason, sponsor letter, and fee of about $20-50, with processing in 3-7 days.
Overstaying incurs fines of $5/day and potential detention; always apply before expiration and keep receipts. Long-term stays may need residency permits for work or study.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Syria uses the Syrian Pound (SYP). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Damascus or nearby hubs like Beirut by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for indirect routes via Lebanon or Jordan.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at street vendors or small eateries for falafel and shawarma under $3, avoiding upscale tourist restaurants to save up to 60% on food expenses.
Local markets in Aleppo or Damascus provide fresh fruits, nuts, and spices at bargain prices for self-catering.
Public Transport Passes
Opt for shared minibuses (servees) at $1-3 per leg instead of taxis, or get informal multi-day deals for inter-city travel saving 40-50%.
In cities like Homs, daily bus passes cover multiple routes for under $5, including access to key sites.
Free Attractions
Explore ancient ruins in Palmyra, Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, and bustling souks without fees, immersing in Syria's rich history at no cost.
Many Ottoman-era sites and public parks offer authentic experiences; join free walking tours led by locals for deeper insights.
Card vs Cash
Cash is king due to limited ATM access; exchange USD or EUR at official banks for better rates than informal changers.
Avoid carrying large amounts; use money belts and split cash storage. International cards rarely work, so plan for full cash needs.
Site Passes
Purchase a multi-site ticket for UNESCO areas like Krak des Chevaliers and Apamea at $10-15, covering several visits and reducing per-entry costs.
It becomes economical after 3-4 sites, ideal for cultural itineraries across the country's heritage trail.
Smart Packing for Syria
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack modest, loose-fitting clothes covering shoulders and knees to respect local customs, especially at religious sites like mosques; include long sleeves and scarves for women.
Layer for variable climates with breathable cotton for heat and warmer items for evenings; quick-dry fabrics are ideal for dusty desert areas.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type C/F), portable charger for unreliable power, offline maps via apps like Maps.me, and a VPN for internet access.
Include a satellite phone or eSIM for communication, as mobile coverage can be spotty outside major cities like Damascus.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive insurance docs, a robust first-aid kit with anti-diarrheal meds, vaccinations proof (hepatitis, typhoid), and high-SPF sunscreen for intense sun.
Pack water purification tablets, as tap water is unsafe; include masks for dust storms and personal medications with prescriptions.
Travel Gear
Opt for a durable daypack with lockable compartments for souk explorations, reusable water bottle, lightweight scarf for dust and sun protection, and small USD cash reserves.
Include passport copies, emergency contacts list, and a money belt; pack a headlamp for potential power outages in rural areas.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy, closed-toe shoes for hiking ancient ruins like Bosra Theater and comfortable sandals for city wandering in Aleppo's old town.
Dust-proof and breathable options are key for arid terrains; bring extra socks for long walks on uneven stone paths at historical sites.
Personal Care
Pack travel-sized toiletries like moisturizer for dry air, wet wipes for limited facilities, and lip balm; biodegradable options respect the environment in sensitive areas.
Include insect repellent for coastal regions near Latakia and a compact fan or cooling towel for summer heat exceeding 40°C.
When to Visit Syria
Spring (March-May)
Mild weather of 15-25°C makes it perfect for exploring Damascus souks and blooming landscapes around the Euphrates, with fewer crowds post-winter.
Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains and visiting coastal sites without extreme heat.
Summer (June-August)
Hot temperatures of 30-40°C suit desert adventures in the east, but avoid midday; festivals in safer areas highlight traditional music and dance.
Coastal retreats in Tartus offer relief from inland heat, though expect higher humidity and limited access to some sites due to crowds.
Autumn (September-November)
Comfortable 20-30°C weather enhances visits to ancient Palmyra and Aleppo Citadel, with harvest seasons bringing vibrant markets and olive festivals.
Great for photography amid golden landscapes; lower tourist numbers allow deeper cultural immersion in restored heritage zones.
Winter (December-February)
Cool 5-15°C conditions are budget-friendly for indoor pursuits like hammam visits in Hama and exploring Ottoman architecture, with occasional snow in higher elevations.
Avoid northern areas prone to rain; focus on southern sites for milder weather and authentic winter teas in cozy cafes.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Syrian Pound (SYP). Hyperinflation affects values; USD widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs are scarce, so carry cash.
- Language: Arabic is official. English is limited outside major cities; learn basic phrases or use translation apps.
- Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC+3
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type C/F plugs (European two-pin round)
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire assistance; also 110 for police specifically
- Tipping: Customary 10-15% at restaurants and for services like guides; small amounts (50-100 SYP) for porters
- Water: Tap water is not safe; drink bottled or purified water only to avoid health issues
- Pharmacies: Available in cities like Damascus; look for green cross signs, but stock up on essentials abroad