U.S. State Department Issues Level 4: Do Not Travel Advisory for Lebanon and Orders Departure of Non-Emergency Personnel
What changed
The U.S. Department of State tells people not to travel to Lebanon. This is called a 'Level 4: Do Not Travel' advisory. It is because of high risks like crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, landmines, and fighting. The Department also told U.S. government workers who are not needed for emergencies and their families to leave Lebanon. Also, families cannot join U.S. government workers in Lebanon. U.S. Embassy Beirut workers cannot travel freely in the country for personal reasons. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also warns planes to be careful in the air within 200 nautical miles of the Damascus Flight Information Region (FIR). This is because of more military activity there.
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Policy history
Each version stays exactly as it was published. This one is version 41 and sits in a chain of versions you can read separately.
United States Travel Advisoriesgoborda provides monitoring and explanation of publicly available policy information. It is not legal advice. Always confirm with the official source or a licensed immigration professional before acting.
Related changes
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What changed
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What changed
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What changed
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What changed
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Published 21 Aug 2026Federal Register β Immigration rules & notices