TRIPOLI, June 11 (Xinhua) -- Libya's Government of National Unity has temporarily suspended the issuance of visas on arrival at airports and air entry points, as part of efforts to regulate the entry of foreign nationals and strengthen border controls.
The measure took effect immediately and will remain in force until a comprehensive review of visa issuance mechanisms is completed and new regulatory procedures are introduced, according to an official circular issued late Wednesday.
The circular said the move aims to prevent forgery and misuse of entry permits while ensuring compliance with existing laws and regulations governing foreigners' entry into the country.
The Ministry of Interior and the Passport, Nationality and Foreign Affairs Authority have been tasked with preparing a comprehensive framework for regulating visa issuance procedures and submitting it to the Prime Minister's Office within 30 days. The proposal is expected to include technical, security and administrative safeguards to ensure effective implementation.
The decision comes amid growing public pressure on the government, including protests and calls from civil society activists demanding stricter measures against irregular migration and rising cases of illegal infiltration and document fraud at air and land border crossings.
Libya has for years granted visas on arrival to certain categories of foreign nationals at selected airports, facilitating entry for business travelers, foreign delegations and visitors. ■
