The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the start of consular services for Syrian nationals residing in Benghazi, marking a significant step in strengthening administrative support for the Syrian community in eastern Libya.
According to a statement issued by the ministry, the move follows a technical delegation’s visit to Libya on 18 October. The new services aim to facilitate documentation and travel procedures for Syrians living in Benghazi and surrounding areas.
The consular services include the renewal of expired Syrian passports, provided applicants attend in person or through a first-degree relative. Additionally, the office will issue temporary travel documents valid for 90 days, allowing a single entry into Syria. Applicants must present an official identification document, which can include a birth certificate issued by Libyan authorities, alongside two recent identical photos.
The technical delegation will begin operations on Monday, 27 October 2025, at the temporary location inside Benghazi’s Hall No. 1 for Events in the Besco area, next to the Children’s Club. Services will be available from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. until Saturday, 1 November 2025. From then on, working hours will extend from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
The delegation emphasised that all services will be provided directly to citizens without intermediaries and prioritised Syrians living outside Benghazi on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
Unofficial estimates from local organisations suggest that between 30,000 and 50,000 Syrians currently reside in Libya, most of whom arrived after the outbreak of the Syrian conflict in 2011. Many have remained in Libya, while some are reported missing or detained due to migration attempts to Europe or previous involvement in armed activities.
