Frequently asked questions about the situation in Lebanon
These frequently asked questions are being continuously updated to reflect the current situation.
Do you need emergency assistance?
You can reach the Dutch embassy in Beirut 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through the NetherlandsWorldwide contact centre by calling +31 247 247 247. You can also send us a WhatsApp message: +31 6 8238 7796.
General questions and contact information
- The colour code of the travel advice for the entire country is red. Do not travel to Lebanon. Are you in Lebanon? Leave the country if you can do so safely.
- A ceasefire has been in place between Lebanon and Israel since 27 November 2024. Despite this, the situation in Lebanon remains tense. It is also unpredictable, especially in the areas close to the border with Israel.
- Read the current travel advice for Lebanon (information in Dutch)
Current advice
If you are in Lebanon you are advised to leave; if you are not in Lebanon do not travel there. Since the ceasefire, the number of flights from Beirut has increased. Middle East Airlines (MEA) offers daily commercial flights from Beirut to various safe destinations. A number of other airlines have also resumed flights since the ceasefire.
To find out what flights are available, see the latest flight information on individual airlines’ websites. For instance, the Middle East Airlines website.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not have information about the exact number of Dutch nationals in Lebanon. This is because Dutch nationals are not required to register when they are abroad.
However, in recent weeks we have seen that people are updating their registration with the Information Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (information in Dutch). For example, by indicating that they have left Lebanon. It is important for the ministry to know this.
The embassy is open to provide consular services.
Find out how to make an appointment at the Dutch embassy in Beirut
Visas, MVV and the civic integration examination
You can apply for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands via VFS Global in Beirut by following the normal procedure.
Find out how you can apply for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands
You can apply for an exit visa (vertrekvisum) for your immediate family members. Email bei-ca@minbuza.nl. The embassy will make an appointment for you at VFS Global.
Immediate family members of Dutch nationals:
- spouse
- registered partner
- partner with whom an unmarried Dutch national has a notarial cohabitation agreement or has a joint household
- dependent children (including adopted children and stepchildren) up to, in most cases, the age of 18.
You can collect your MVV visa sticker in Beirut. Also if you live in Syria.
Find out how to apply for an MVV visa sticker in Lebanon
The embassy schedules appointments based on the date on which the IND approved the application.
No, you cannot change it back.
A positive notification on an application for a residence permit and MVV for the purposes of family reunification, work or study is valid for 3 months. For the family members of refugees, the positive notification is valid for 6 months.
If this period has passed, contact the IND for a new positive notification.
Email bei-ca@minbuza.nl to make a new appointment.
Contact DUO. Bear in mind the security situation in Lebanon. There may be a long wait time to take the civic integration examination in Beirut.
Yes, you can. Email bei-ca@minbuza.nl to make an appointment.