Lebanese expatriates face high passport fees
Many Lebanese expatriates abroad complain about the high fees of renewing passports.
BEIRUT — Renewing or acquiring a Lebanese passport in Lebanon and abroad has become a challenge. With the Lebanese state facing one of its worst economic crisis, although a right, obtaining a passport has become a luxury.
Many Lebanese citizens residing abroad complain about the high fees of renewing passports, which is now 24 million Lebanese pounds ($600) for a passport valid for 10 years. This is an exorbitant price for many, especially students and new expatriates.
The price for the renewal of a passport valid for five years, issued at a Lebanese embassy abroad, is 12 million Lebanese pounds ($300). The Lebanese diplomatic body has been suffering repercussions of the economic crisis, with ministers calling for expats to pay the salaries of diplomats and embassy staff.
However, in Lebanon, the renewal of a five-year passport costs 1 million pounds ($25), while the renewal of a 10-year passport costs 2 million pounds ($50), according to the Lebanese General Security statement published Nov. 16.
