{"metadata":{"generated":{"timestamp":1393624894,"date":"2014-02-28 23:01:34"}},"data":{"country-iso":"LB","advisory-state":2,"has-advisory-warning":1,"has-regional-advisory":1,"has-content":1,"update-metadata":"","eng":{"name":"Lebanon","url-slug":"lebanon","friendly-date":"February 21, 2014 15:34 ","advisory-text":"AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL; see also regional advisories.","recent-updates":"The Security tab was updated - Bir Hassan.","advisories":"
<\/p>\n
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against all travel to all areas within 10 km of the border with Syria, and to the northern Bekaa Valley, from Rayak northward to the Syrian border (including Britel, Baalbek, Aarsal, Ras Baalbek, Qaa and Hermel), due to incidents linked to the conflict in Syria.<\/p>\n
Consult the Security tab<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/div>\n <\/p>\n Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against all travel to the city of Tripoli, due to inter-communal violence.<\/p>\n Consult the Security tab<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/div>\n <\/p>\n Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against all travel to the Southern suburbs of Beirut, due to the increased threat of terrorist attacks. This includes the areas from south of the Camille Chamoun Sports City Stadium to the airport, and east of the main airport highway (neighborhoods of Dahieh, Ghobeiry, Chiya, Haret Hraik, Borj Al Brajne, Mraije, Rouais, and Laylake). The main highway to the airport and the airport are excluded from this advisory.<\/p>\n Consult the Security tab<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/div>\n Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against all travel to areas south of the Litani River, near the border with Israel, due to military activity.<\/p>\n Consult the Security tab<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/div>\n <\/p>\n Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against all travel to the Palestinian refugee camps, due to an unpredictable security situation.<\/p>\n Consult the Security tab<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/div>\n <\/p>\n Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against all travel to the area of Abra in the city of Saïda, due to violent clashes between the Lebanese Armed Forces and local militias.<\/p>\n Consult the Security tab<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/div>\n The decision to travel is your responsibility. You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. The Government of Canada will assist you in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at your personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability is high. <\/p>\n There have been numerous incidents in the border regions between Lebanon and Syria as a result of the conflict in Syria. Incursions and shelling of Lebanese villages by the Syrian military and the Free Syrian Army have occurred on numerous occasions resulting in deaths and injuries. Sectarian tensions have also increased in border areas resulting in many instances of kidnapping and violent clashes.<\/p>\n The Lebanon-Syria border is not clearly delineated in all areas. <\/p>\n \n Tripoli is vulnerable to inter-communal violence. The use of heavy weapons (machine guns, grenades and rocket-propelled grenades) and sniper activity occur daily, resulting in several deaths and injuries. The Lebanese army is routinely deployed to restore order and has been authorized to use lethal force. The security situation in Tripoli remains unpredictable and could change without notice. Exercise caution, avoid affected areas, monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities. <\/p>\n On January 21, 2014, a car bomb exploded in the Dahieh neighbourhood of Haret Hreik, causing at least 5 deaths and injuries. On January 2, a large explosion in the same area caused 5 deaths. On May 26, two rockets were fired at the southern suburbs of Beirut, and on July 9, a car bomb detonated in Bir Abed. Both incidents caused injuries and material damage. On August 15, a large explosion caused by a car bomb in Dahieh resulted in deaths and injuries.<\/p>\n Similar attacks could occur. Road blocks and demonstrations are also likely, and the latter may turn violent without notice. Monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.<\/p>\n Although the suburb of Bir Hassan is excluded from our regional Advisory, Iranian interests in the neighbourhood have been subject to sporadic attacks since November 2013. On November 19, 2013, twin suicide attacks next to the Iranian embassy caused deaths, injuries, and extensive material damage. Remain aware of your surroundings at all times if you are in Bir Hassan. <\/p>\n \n The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) still maintains additional peacekeepers south of the Litani as a result of the 2006 conflict. This region remains highly militarized and volatile. Rocket launches occasionally occur, provoking retaliatory attacks in this region and elsewhere in Lebanon, and causing injury and death. <\/p>\n Forces other than the Lebanese authorities exert significant control over parts of this region. This may delay or prevent Canadian officials from providing assistance to citizens in these areas.<\/p>\n Lebanon and Israel have not agreed on an international border. The “Blue Line” enforced by the United Nations (UN) and separating the two countries has not been fully demarcated, and areas adjacent to it are often heavily mined. The areas of Ghajar, Kfarshouba Hills and Chebaa Farms remain under dispute. <\/p>\n \n The security situation in these areas remains tense and unpredictable. Incidents of violence are a frequent occurrence in some camps, particularly the Ein El Helwe camp near Sidon and the Beddawi camp near Tripoli. <\/p>\n As Palestinian camps are often located close to urban centres and are not always visibly demarcated, exercise caution and remain aware of your whereabouts at all times in order to avoid unknowingly entering a camp. <\/p>\n \n Violent clashes between the Lebanese Armed Forces and local militias have been occurring in the area of Abra, in the city of Saïda, since June 22, 2013. The use of heavy weapons (machine guns, grenades and rocket-propelled grenades) has been reported, as well as sniper activity in Abra and other parts of Saïda, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. Violence has, from time to time, spilled over to other parts of Saïda. Exercise caution, avoid affected areas, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local news reports. <\/p>\n \n Heightened tensions throughout the region, coupled with an increased global terrorist threat, may put you at greater risk. There is currently a high threat of terrorist attacks, which could occur at any time throughout Lebanon. Bystanders have been killed in previous attacks. <\/p>\n Bombings, grenade attacks, political assassinations, gun battles, targeted vehicle explosions and shelling, which have been reported in commercial and residential districts in and around Beirut, have caused numerous deaths and injuries in recent years. Groups supporting either side in the Syrian conflict, senior political figures, and key security officials in Lebanon continue to be the main targets of attacks.<\/p>\n Security forces are on high alert following a series of terrorist attacks. On December 27, 2013, a car bomb exploded in downtown Beirut, targeting the car of Lebanon’s former Finance Minister, Mohammed Chatah. The blast killed 5 people, including Dr. Chatah, and injured over 70 others. Exercise caution, avoid crowds and large gatherings, monitor local news reports, and follow the advice of local authorities. Unofficial road barricades and checkpoints have also been reported.<\/p>\n UN convoys were attacked on several occasions in 2011 and many peacekeepers were injured. Incidents can occur anywhere without warning, including in public places and residential areas.<\/p>\n Multiple instances of foreigners being held against their will have been reported in Lebanon recently, mostly in the Bekaa Valley, the southern suburbs of Beirut and the border regions between Lebanon and Syria. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.<\/p>\n Planned and spontaneous demonstrations related to the domestic and regional situation regularly occur in Lebanon. While there have been no reports of injuries, some demonstrations have led to roadblocks, the burning of tires, and the firing of weapons. In some instances, the Lebanese Armed Forces have erected checkpoints to manage protests. <\/p>\n The road to the airport is subject to sporadic closure due to various factors including local sectarian clashes, civil unrest in Syria and protests against government policies. Access to the airport may be unavailable for extended periods if the security situation deteriorates. <\/p>\n Monitor current developments closely when travelling within Lebanon, and be aware that local conditions may change rapidly and without warning, compromising mobility and safety. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media. You should also observe all warnings issued by Lebanese authorities and take appropriate precautions. <\/p>\n The Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), the international body investigating the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, confirmed and delivered an indictment to the Lebanese government. Further developments related to the ongoing investigation may lead to unrest. <\/p>\n Monitor media reports pertaining to the STL and keep informed of any political and security developments. <\/p>\n Landmines and unexploded ordnance continue to pose a significant threat, particularly in the south, despite progress in demining activities. Be aware of posted landmine warnings, stay on paved roads, and avoid walking or driving cross-country. More recently, various reports have indicated that Syrian troops planted landmines along the northern border with Lebanon.<\/p>\n The crime rate is moderate. Petty crime, car thefts and residential break-ins occur. Exercise normal safety precautions. <\/p>\n Foreigners using shared taxis have been victims of armed robberies in some Beirut neighbourhoods. Where possible, pre-arrange transportation instead of hailing taxis in the street.<\/p>\n Congestion and aggressive driving are a serious problem throughout the country, and drivers have little regard for traffic laws. Road accidents causing injury or death are common in Lebanon. At night, road lighting is sporadic and unreliable in urban areas and virtually non-existent in rural areas. Many drivers use their high beams exclusively, often creating a serious hazard due to blinding glare. Mountain roads may be subject to fog, heavy snow, ice and other hazardous conditions during winter months. <\/p>\n Lebanese drivers are unaccustomed to sharing the road with bicycles. Exercise great caution when cycling. <\/p>\n Pedestrians should exercise great caution at all times. <\/p>\n Consult our Transportation Safety<\/a> page in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards. <\/p>\n \n On august 10, 2012, the United States (U.S.) embassy in Beirut indicated to U.S. citizens <\/a>that it had received reports of an increased possibility of attacks against U.S. citizens in Lebanon. Possible threats include kidnapping, the potential for an upsurge in violence, the escalation of family or neighbourhood disputes, as well as U.S. citizens being the target of terrorist attacks in Lebanon. <\/p>\n Ensure that personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure. Keep photocopies of all your documents in safekeeping facilities. <\/p>\n There is a highly visible security presence throughout the country. Carry all of your personal documentation with you and obey the instructions of security personnel. <\/p>\n Forces other than the Lebanese authorities exert a large amount of control in some areas. Most notably, Hezbollah maintains a presence in the southern suburbs of Beirut, southern Lebanon and several other areas, including the Bekaa Valley. This may delay or prevent Canadian officials from providing assistance to Canadians in these areas.<\/p>\n Dial (01) 343-286 to reach the Tourist Police.<\/p>","entry-exit":" It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained from the Lebanese authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of Lebanon<\/a> or one of its consulates<\/a> for up-to-date information.<\/p>\n Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel<\/a> page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.<\/p>\n Canadians must present a passport<\/a> to visit Lebanon, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country.<\/strong><\/p>\n Canadians must be in possession of a visa to visit Lebanon. Visas are available at Lebanese diplomatic missions abroad or at any port of entry into Lebanon. Nonetheless, you should obtain your Lebanese visa prior to your arrival.<\/p>\n Make sure your visa remains valid throughout your stay. An expired entry visa must be extended by Lebanese authorities or else you will not be allowed to leave the country.<\/p>\n In order to exit the country, your passport must show a Lebanese entry stamp. Persons who acquire a new passport while in Lebanon must present their old passport containing their proof of entry to authorities upon departure.<\/p>\n Individuals who have claimed refugee status in Lebanon and later departed the country have been denied subsequent re-entry into Lebanon.<\/strong><\/p>\n Canadians have been detained, questioned and even 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).<\/p>\n If you are travelling in the Middle East, your passport could come under increased scrutiny, and the authenticity of your passport could be questioned due to incidents of possible misuse. Contact the nearest Canadian government office or the Emergency Watch and Response Centre for advice and assistance.<\/p>\n Travel permits from Lebanese authorities and\/or the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon may be required in order to enter parts of this region.<\/p>\n Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. Please consult our Children<\/a> page for more information.<\/p>","health":" Be sure that your routine vaccines<\/a> are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.<\/p> You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health provider about which ones are right for you.<\/p> \n\tHepatitis A<\/a> is a disease of the liver spread by contaminated food or water. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tHepatitis B<\/a> is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tSeasonal influenza<\/a> occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or through personal contact with unwashed hands. Get the flu shot.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tMeasles occurs worldwide but is a common disease in developing countries, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. Measles<\/a> is a highly contagious disease. Be sure your vaccination against measles is up-to-date regardless of the travel destination. \n\tThere is a risk of polio<\/a> in this country. Be sure that your vaccination against polio is up-to-date.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tRabies<\/a> is a disease that attacks the central nervous system spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from a rabid animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (i.e., close contact with animals, occupational risk, and children).<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tTyphoid<\/a> is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among travellers going to rural areas, visiting friends and relatives, or with weakened immune systems. Travellers visiting regions with typhoid risk, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should consider getting vaccinated.<\/p>\n<\/details> Yellow fever is a disease caused by the bite of an infected mosquito.<\/p> Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.<\/p>Regional Advisory for Tripoli<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
Regional Advisory for the Southern suburbs of Beirut<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nRegional Advisory for areas south of the Litani River<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
Regional Advisory for the Palestinian refugee camps<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
Regional Advisory for the area of Abra in the city of Saïda<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>","security":"All areas within 10 km of the border with Syria and for the northern Bekaa Valley, from Rayak northward to the Syrian border (see Advisory<\/a>) <\/h3>\n
Tripoli (see Advisory<\/a>) <\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
Southern suburbs of Beirut (see Advisory<\/a>) <\/h3>\n
Areas south of the Litani River, near the border with Israel (see Advisory<\/a>)<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
Palestinian refugee camps (see Advisory<\/a>)<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
Area of Abra in the city of Saïda (see Advisory<\/a>)<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
Terrorism<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
Kidnappings<\/h3>\n
Demonstrations<\/h3>\n
Special Tribunal for Lebanon <\/h3>\n
Landmines <\/h3>\n
Crime <\/h3>\n
Transportation <\/h3>\n
General safety information<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
Emergency services <\/h3>\n
Passport<\/h3>\n
Visa<\/h3>\n
Entry stamp<\/h3>\n
Refugees<\/h3>\n
Regional travel<\/h3>\n
South of the Litani River, border with Israel<\/h3>\n
Children and travel<\/h3>\n
Vaccines<\/summary>
Routine Vaccines<\/h3>
Vaccines to Consider<\/h3>
Hepatitis A<\/summary>
Hepatitis B<\/summary>
Influenza<\/summary>
Measles<\/summary>
\n\t <\/p>\n<\/details>Polio<\/summary>
Rabies<\/summary>
Typhoid<\/summary>
Yellow Fever Vaccination<\/h3>