On 21 August 2014, the GOL announced that Syrians without legal residence in Lebanon, and in particular those willing to return to Syria, can regularize their situation without paying the residence fees.
2. I have heard different announcements about this throughout September. What is the latest update?
The GOL’s decision has been implemented part by part through various announcements. The information reported in this Q&A reflects the latest decision of the Government of Lebanon. We will try to keep you updated each time new information is available.
3. I entered Lebanon through an official border but I was not able to renew my residence on time, how does the GOL decision apply to me?
Currently, you have two choices: a) Exit Lebanon through an official border without paying the fines for overstaying your residence; or b) go to the GSO near your residence to regularize your status without paying the fines for overstaying your residence.
If you exit Lebanon through an official border:
You should not pay the fines usually requested from Syrians who did not renew the residence on time (200USD per year of overstay per person above 15 years of age).
The GOL may issue you a re-entry ban of usually 6 months. According to information received, not everybody receives a re-entry ban and bans can be shorter or longer than 6 months.
If you go to the GSO near your residence:
You should not pay the fines usually requested from Syrians who did not renew the residence on time (200USD per year of overstay per person above 15 years of age).
Your residency should be “reset” to as if you entered for the first time. This means you should receive a temporary stay of 6 months. After the 6 months period, you should be able to renew for another 6 months free of charge.
Please be aware that the exemption from the fines is applicable only to those whose residence expired before 21 August and were not able to renew it.
4. I entered Lebanon through an unofficial crossing point but I was not able to regularize my stay, how does the decision of the GOL apply to me?
You have two choices: a) Exit Lebanon through an official border without paying the fines for illegal entry; or b) go to the GSO near your residence to regularize your status without paying the fines for illegal entry.
If you exit Lebanon through an official border:
You should not have to pay the fines usually requested from Syrians who were not able to regularize their stay in Lebanon (650USD per person above 15 years of age).
The GOL may give you a re-entry ban of usually 6 months. According to information received, not everybody receives a re-entry ban and bans can be shorter or longer than 6 months.
If you go to the GSO near your residence:
You should not pay the fines usually requested from Syrians who were not able to regularize their stay in Lebanon (650USD per person above 15 years of age).
You should receive a temporary residence permit of 6 months only. This will not be renewable.
You need to have a valid identity document or a passport or a civil extract.
5. How long can I benefit from these fees exemptions?
You can benefit from these fines exemptions until 31 December 2014.
6. If I exit Lebanon, will I be allowed to enter Syria?
Yes. Syrian authorities may take measures against certain groups of persons upon entry.
7. If I exit Lebanon, will I be allowed to re-enter?
If you decide to exit Lebanon you may not be allowed to re-enter Lebanon if GSO issues you a re-entry ban. The bans given are usually of 6 months. Even if you are not issued a re-entry ban, GSO may also deny your entry on the basis of their decisions.
8. If I go to Syria alone and my family remains in Lebanon, will I be able to re-join them?
Exiting Lebanon may lead to separation from your family members who remain in Lebanon if GSO issues you a re-entry ban. Re-entry bans are usually for 6 months but may be of a shorter or longer duration.
9. My husband/spouse is a Palestinian refugee from Syria can he/she benefit from the free regularization?
Yes. Please be aware that Palestinian Refugees from Syria who want to regularize their stay in Lebanon will be issued a temporary residence of 3 months, renewable once. For more information concerning Palestinian Refugees from Syrian please contact the office of UNRWA.
10. I currently have a valid residence in Lebanon, does this decision apply to me?
No. The decision does not apply if you have a valid legal residence in the country, like an annual or permanent residency as well as a courtesy permit. The exemption from fines is applicable only to those whose residence expired before 21 August and were not able to renew it and for those who entered through an unofficial crossing point and are in possession of valid documents.
11. I was requested by GSO to present a work permit in order to renew my residency. Considering this decision, can I renew my residence without presenting the work permit?
No. The decision of the GOL does not apply to Syrians who received a deadline to obtain a work permit.
12. How long does the process take to regularize my stay?
After you approach the GSO office in your area of residence, you will be given a “green card” (receipt) and an appointment. Your documents will be kept at the GSO to be processed. According to reports, you many need to wait 15-30 days to collect the residence and your documents. If GSO offices become very busy, it may take longer.
13. Will my registration with UNHCR be affected if I go back to Syria?
If you return to Syria and want to re-enter Lebanon, UNHCR may need to contact you for an interview to know more about your situation and why you returned to Syria. This interview will establish if you still will be registered with UNHCR.
14. What is UNHCR’s position in relation to return to Syria?
UNHCR believes that the situation in Syria is not conducive to a safe return