Country guides
Africa
Electricity
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round three-pin plugs are used. Power outages are common.
Language
The official language of Libya is Arabic (used for all official business), though some Italian and English is spoken, especially in the cities.
Money
The Libyan Dinar (LYD), divided into 1,000 dirhams.
Tipping
Tipping isn't common and may be offensive. However, tipping tour guides is appreciated.
Health
There are no major health risks associated with travel to Libya. Visitors travelling from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Travellers are encouraged to get vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid. Healthcare facilities in Libya are basic and travellers are advised to have full travel insurance. In remote areas, there may be no health facilities at all and so travellers are advised to carry their own basic medications. Tap water in Libya is chlorinated, but it's advised that visitors drink only bottled or boiled water.
Safety
Libya remains unstable and unpredictable in the wake of civil war, with various extremist groups and political factions warring for control. Ports and airports have been targeted by terrorist groups. Terrorism is a real threat and travellers should be particularly alert to kidnapping threats as foreigners have been previously targeted. The political instability has also led to an increase in crime levels, with safety in Libya far from certain and most government agencies advising against all travel to the country at this time.
Local customs
Libya is an Islamic country and visitors should be respectful in terms of following Arabic customs, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking, smoking and chewing gum in public is forbidden.
Swimwear should be restricted to beaches and women should dress modestly, avoiding Arab gatherings where women are not permitted. Homosexuality is illegal and extramarital sexual relationships are forbidden. Libya is one of the strictest countries in terms of a ban on alcohol and drugs, and neither should be brought into the country, though smoking is very common.
Criticism of the Libyan Government, Islam and the country itself is not tolerated. Permission must always be sought prior to photographing people, and it is not recommended that a camera be used or carried near any official or military buildings.
Doing business
Appointments need to be made as far in advance as possible, and should be confirmed a day or two before the meeting. It's best to avoid scheduling meetings during Ramadan if possible, nor should meetings be scheduled on Friday between 11.15 am and 3 pm as most companies close for prayers. Foreigners should arrive at meetings on time and be prepared to wait. Shirts and smart trousers, or smart-casual office dresses are acceptable in many instances, though suits and ties are worn for more formal occasions. A handshake is commonly used at the beginning and end of meetings, but male attendees should wait for a woman to extend her hand first. Titles (Mr. and Mrs.) are very important in Libya, and government officials should be referred to as 'Your Excellency'. First names are strictly off limits unless locals invite foreign attendees to use them. Business cards should have one side translated into Arabic.
Duty free
Travellers may enter the country with 200 cigarettes or 250 cigars or 250g tobacco and 250ml of perfume. All alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited, as well as almost all foodstuffs. There is also an extensive list of banned items, including any articles manufactured or produced in Israel, and it is best to consult a Libyan Embassy for more information before travel.
Communications
The international access code is +218.
Passport & Visa
Most foreign passengers require a visa to enter Libya. Tourist visas must be organised in advance, but can sometimes be issued on arrival; provided that travellers are holding a copy of a letter issued by the Libyan immigration authorities, confirming that a visa will be granted to them upon their arrival at the airport. This copy must be sent to the office of the transporting carrier in Libya at least 24 hours in advance. Visitors travelling to Libya for touristic purposes are also required to convert USD 1,000 (or equivalent) in freely convertible cash, or to debit the amount from a valid credit card upon their arrival at the airport. Failure to do so will result in the traveller being refused entry to Libya. Note that admission and transit will be refused to holders of (i) documents containing a valid or expired visa for Israel, or (ii) tickets showing an Israeli destination. All visitors must also hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in Libya, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving within six days or leaving or transiting through an infected area). Please note that the volatile political situation in Libya means that visa/entry requirements often change abruptly, and as such, travellers should make sure they are in possession of up-to-date information BEFORE leaving home. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry requirements
US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required.
British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required.
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required.
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required.
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required.
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required.
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required.