Notice

December 5, 2007

Visa Requirements for Libya – Arabic stamp

Effective November 11, 2007, the Libyan government requires all travellers entering (and re-entering) the country to present a passport containing an Arabic translation of the personal information page.

All Passport Canada offices will, upon request, add an Arabic stamp to a valid Canadian passport. Passport officers enter the information required in English or French, as per the client's wishes, on the left and leave the right fields blank in order for the Arabic translation to be entered. Passport Canada then affixes a dry seal on the left part of the stamp. The fee for this service is $12, plus any applicable fees for urgent or express service.

It is the traveller's responsibility to obtain translation of their personal information and ensure that the translation meets Libyan requirements. Travellers should contact the Libyan Embassy for more information about acceptable translation services and procedures.

The Canadian Government will not affix its dry seal on a stamp produced by a third party nor on a translation provided by a third party.

Canadian passport holders residing outside of Canada must contact the nearest Canadian government office for information on having the Arabic stamp added, and contact the nearest Libyan embassy to obtain the name of an acceptable certified translator.

For more information, travellers are advised to read the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade travel report for Libya.

Passport Canada is a Special Operating Agency of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. Its mission is to issue secure Canadian travel documents through authentication of identity and entitlement, facilitating travel and contributing to international and domestic security.

Public Inquiries:
1 800 567-6868