Libya

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 1515 for police
• Dial 1515 for ambulance

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad. They use simpler methods of attack, like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. 

Terrorists often target unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Terrorist Groups

he following groups are on the U.S. government’s list of designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations. They pose a high risk to U.S. citizens in the region:

• The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS)-Libya
• Al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM)

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Libya and the surrounding region. The most recent terrorist attack in Libya occurred in 2021. Extremists have taken foreigners hostage. 

• Review our Terrorism page for more information.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Crime levels and the threat of kidnapping throughout the country remain high.

• Crimes of opportunity are common, particularly against people who appear to be wealthy or of foreign nationality.
• Victims of sexual assault have little support. 
• Women who report sexual crimes may be accused of adultery. They are at risk of further violence against them if they are unable to prove a crime occurred under a high standard of proof in the Libyan judicial system.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Libya. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters.  Most scammers pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. 

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

You may report crimes to the local police closest to where you are residing and contact the U.S. embassy in Tunis at +216-71-107-000, or +216-29-980-978 for WhatsApp calling capabilities. 

Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen who are victims of sexual assault should contact the U.S. Embassy in Tunis for help.

• Victims of sexual assault have very few options for help in Libya.
• Women who report sexual crimes may be accused of adultery.
• They are at risk of more violence against them if they can’t prove that a crime happened. The proof required in Libyan courts is very hard to meet.
• Libya does not have any laws against domestic violence. 
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for help.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Be cautious using dating apps or dating websites abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens. 
• Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks.
• Drones are restricted.

GPS

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place.

• Tourists participate in activities at their own risk. 
• Emergency response and medical treatment are not available. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned for an undetermined amount of time.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for an extended period of time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You should have valid identification on you to present to authorities if questioned.
• You may be stopped, questioned, and detained by individuals in public who do not have official affiliation with the Libyan government, such as members of an armed group.
• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings, especially military and government facilities.
• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Alcohol is prohibited.  Possessing, using, or trafficking in alcohol can carry severe penalties.
• Driving under the influence can result in immediate detention. 
• Customs authorities enforce strict rules about bringing certain items into Libya or taking them out of the country. These items include guns, religious materials, ancient objects, medicines, and money.
• It is illegal to import and consume alcohol, pornography, or pork products.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Libya seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy in Tunis immediately.  

• U.S. citizens who were born in Libya or have Libyan family may have to follow special laws that apply to Libyan citizens. If you are detained in Libya, the Department of State may not be notified. Department of State officials cannot visit detained U.S. citizens in Libya, due to security reasons throughout the country and the suspended operating status of the U.S. Embassy in Libya. 
• Since some law enforcement is performed by armed groups under varying degrees of government control, there are few clear legal processes.

Detention conditions

If you are detained in Libya, the U.S. Department of State may not be notified.

• A detention facility may not provide you with basic toiletries, appropriate nutrition, or essential medications or medical care.
• Detainees in Libya often can’t get their prescribed or over the counter medications. Detainees may also miss out on emergency and routine medical care.  

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines and/or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Proselytizing is illegal in Libya. Penalties are severe. In addition to possibly facing the death penalty, proselytizers may be the target of extra-judicial killings, arrest, or detention.

While not advised, faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Same-sex relationships are illegal in Libya. People can be punished with up to 5 years in prison or flogging.

• Police may use other laws as excuses to arrest lesbian, gay, and bisexual people without good reason.
• Some local laws allow discrimination against people who are gay or lesbian. 
• There have been reports of physical violence, harassment, and blackmail based on sexual orientation. 
• There have been reports of armed groups detaining people they think are gay or lesbian.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• Libyan law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities and describes the provision of financial and other social assistance to protect disabled persons with respect to employment, education, access to health care, and provision of other government services. However, persons with disabilities face challenges in Libya.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

Women and girls in Libya are at high risk of forced marriage, abduction, and kidnapping. This risk is especially high for those with Libyan relatives and other Western travelers.

• Women traveling alone or with children have been stopped, questioned, or harassed by authorities for traveling without a male guardian. This happens throughout Libya and when trying to leave the country. Male guardianship is not required by law, but Libyan authorities often demand it anyway.
• Women and men traveling together may be asked to show a marriage certificate to prove their relationship.
• Even when with a male guardian, women have been intimidated, threatened and detained by armed groups or extremists for "un-Islamic" behavior.
• Women are expected to wear very modest clothing and may be stopped or harassed if their clothing is considered immodest.
• Women and girls who have been detained in Libya report being victims of sexual violence by authorities or armed group members.
• Victims of sexual assault have very little help available in Libya. Women who report sexual crimes may be accused of adultery instead. They risk more violence if they cannot prove a crime happened under Libya's very strict legal standards.

Review more information regarding women travelers:

• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Libya Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
  
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 1515 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are available in Tripoli but are not present or not reliable throughout the rest of the country. Even in Tripoli, ambulances are not widely available.  

• Training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Ambulances are not equipped with advanced medical equipment. 
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is free in public healthcare facilities to all nationalities if they entered the country legally.
• There are medications missing in the public hospitals that patients need to bring to get proper care.
• Most care providers abroad only accept cash payments.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider after first paying. 
• Review our Health Abroad page for more information.

Vaccinations

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Libya Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC’s Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Tripoli and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• U.S. citizens have filed many complaints about unethical business practices. They have expressed concern about high prices and collection methods from some private hospitals. Before agreeing to any medical care, travelers should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.  
• Be aware that some hotels, resorts, etc. have exclusive agreements with medical providers. This may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is available through government institutions and private hospitals.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescription medication (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the entire duration of your stay in Libya.
• Check with the Embassy of Libya to ensure the medication is legal in Libya.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally not safe to drink and should be avoided.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve bottled water.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Tripoli.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• Roadside assistance is extremely limited. It is offered only in Arabic. 
• Wind-blown sand can reduce visibility without warning. 
• During rainstorms, roads will flood. 
• Very few streets are marked or have signage. Highway signs are normally only in Arabic. 
• Paved roads in rural areas are satisfactory. However, many rural roads are unpaved.

Traffic laws 

U.S. citizens need to have both their valid U.S. driver's license and a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) to be able to drive in Libya.

• If you have a minor traffic accident, traffic police and an ambulance (if needed) will come to help. Both drivers will be asked to go to the police station.
• If you have a major traffic accident, everyone involved will be questioned. Then the authorities will decide who must go to the police station. If someone is injured and needs medical care, they will be taken to the hospital and questioned there.
• Foreign nationals should always carry travel documentation. Foreign nationals are more likely to be asked for bribes by local officials.
• Drivers are advised to drive carefully. Local drivers do not follow speed limits and traffic signals. 
• There is a high accident rate, and traffic laws are rarely enforced.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis are available, but taxi drivers may be reckless and untrained. English-speaking drivers are extremely rare.

Public and commercial transportation

• Public and commercial transportation in Libya is not safe and carries high risks due to civil unrest, terrorism, criminality, and dangerous road conditions. Militia-controlled checkpoints are common, posing risks of detention or robbery, and sudden violent clashes can occur.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Libya’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program. 
• The FAA has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) which prohibits U.S. civil aviation from flying into or over Libya. Further information may be found on the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Maritime travel

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Libya’s ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Libyan ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory. Mariners and passengers traveling through Libyan ports should exercise caution and implement enhanced security measures.

Information may also be posted to the NGA broadcast warnings website. Navigational warnings can be found under the “Current Warnings” section for the applicable NAVAREA from within the NGA site.

Port Security: The Commandant of the Coast Guard has determined that effective anti-terrorism measures are not in place in Libyan ports and has imposed conditions of entry on vessels that arrive in U.S. ports having visited ports in Libya. Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of Libya should exercise increased caution.

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Libya should check the following: 

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Flash floods and heavy rainfall – Libya is vulnerable to flash flooding when intense rainfall occurs, usually between September through January.

Dust storms and sandstorms (ghibli/sirocco winds) – These occur between March through June. They are typically hot, dry, and with windy dust from the Sahara that can reduce visibility to near zero and raise temperatures dramatically within hours.   

Extreme heat waves - Interior regions regularly experience temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F). Sometimes it can go above 50°C (122°F), especially during the summer.

Drought – Year-round, but especially worse during summer months. Libya has a serious water shortage because it gets very little rain (less than 100mm per year in most areas). The country depends heavily on underground water.

Coastal storms and high winds - Mediterranean coastal areas experience occasional severe storms with high winds and rough seas. This affects maritime activities and coastal infrastructure. Storms usually happen between November through March.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates