Entry Requirements and Visas
As of April 2025, Syria offers visas on arrival for most nationalities. Israeli citizens are outright banned from entry, while Iranian citizens must obtain a visa in advance before arrival. Jordanian, Lebanese, Malaysian, and Mauritanian citizens do not require visas at all.
Visa options include 6-month (single or multiple entries), 3-month (single entry), and 15-day (land borders only) versions. If entering by air in Damascus, expect a visa fee ranging from US$40 to US$350, depending on your citizenship. Land border crossings do not charge a fee.
You can obtain visas in advance through Syrian embassies and consulates, though the process can be expensive and complicated. A popular alternative is to apply at the Syrian consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, where visas are typically issued within one day for €20–€30. Syria also offers e-visas through its official website, though the system has experienced occasional technical issues.
If obtaining a visa at a land border, bring US dollars, euros, or Syrian pounds—other currencies will not receive favorable exchange rates, and credit or debit cards are not accepted at most crossings. When exiting Syria by land, you must purchase an exit card for approximately US$12 or €9.
A "letter of recommendation" from your consulate stating they have "no objection" to your visit may be required. Any visa issued must bear two stamps and a signature; without these, it will be considered invalid at the border. Keep your blue arrival form, as you must submit it upon departure.
American citizens should be aware of US sanctions on Syria. While traveling and spending money there is permitted, you cannot fly with Syrian Arab Airlines. Many US banks restrict transactions with Syria, so some credit or ATM cards may not work. Contact your bank before traveling, but be aware that even with advance notice, some accounts have been frozen.
Getting There
Syria has two functioning international airports as of February 2026: Damascus International Airport (35 km southeast of the capital) and Aleppo International Airport. International flights have resumed, with daily service between Damascus and Istanbul and several flights per week from Middle Eastern hubs including Amman and Doha. Airport departure tax is included in ticket prices.
Overland entry is possible from Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey via shared taxis (servees) and buses. A shared service taxi from Beirut to Damascus costs approximately US$17 per person. Buses run regularly from Antakya in Turkey, with frequent connections to major Syrian cities. When arriving in Damascus by bus, move away from the terminal to find a taxi—vehicles posing as taxis near the station may overcharge significantly or employ distraction tactics while loading luggage.
Land border crossings for US citizens cost US$16 or €12, while other nationalities pay varying amounts (Japanese US$12–14, Australians/New Zealanders approximately US$100, Swiss US$63). Visas obtained at land borders are 15-day single-entry only and must be re-obtained if you exit and re-enter Syria.
International trains have been suspended indefinitely due to war damage. Occasional passenger ferries run between Latakia and Limassol, Cyprus, though this service is intermittent—confirm departure in advance.
Money, Currency, and Costs
The currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP). When crossing land borders with cash, bring US dollars, euros, or Syrian pounds for optimal exchange rates. Traveler's checks are not accepted, and credit or debit card facilities are unavailable at most border crossings.
Service taxis offer economical transportation between cities. A shared taxi from Beirut to Damascus costs about US$17 per person. A private taxi from Gaziantep Airport in Turkey costs approximately US$60 to reach Syrian destinations.
Staying Safe
As of March 2026, certain areas remain unsafe for travelers. Avoid majority-Kurdish areas in northern Syria, particularly around Kobane in northeastern Aleppo Governorate and the Hasakah-Qamishli area, which remain politically sensitive with periodic tensions between Kurdish communities and Syrian government forces.
Most of Suwayda Governorate, including its capital, is not under effective Syrian government control but is held by local militias. Regular clashes between these groups and Syrian government forces create a highly unstable security situation. Travelers should avoid this area entirely due to the risk of active conflict.
Avoid all large public gatherings, as they may turn violent. Exercise extreme caution regarding political speech—open criticism or appraisal of political opinions or government measures can result in serious trouble. Your safest approach is to avoid such discussions entirely.
Health
Consult your country's official travel health advisory and speak with a healthcare provider familiar with travel medicine before your trip for current recommendations on vaccinations and health precautions.
Staying Connected
The international dialing code for Syria is +963. Contact your mobile provider about international roaming options, or research current Syrian telecommunications providers before departure.
Local Customs and Etiquette
The primary ethnic group in Syria is Arab, and the largest religious group is Sunni Muslim. Avoid making assumptions, ask respectful questions when uncertain, and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
Emergency Contacts
Research and note down emergency numbers (police, fire, medical) before arrival, and identify the location of your country's embassy or consulate in Damascus. Keep these details accessible at all times during your stay.