Border and customs regulations

Returnees should verify current border procedures and ensure they carry valid identification and travel documents. Syrians returning to the country need to present valid identification documents, such as a Syrian national passport or identity card, including those issued before 2024.

Children under 18 need a birth certificate and must be traveling with a parent or guardian. Birth certificates from abroad are accepted if authenticated. Hospital-issued notifications may be accepted in exceptional cases.

For those without identification documents but recorded in the Syrian civil registries, immigration officials at the borders have indicated that entry will still be permitted following a verification of identity through the Civil Affairs database that is accessible by Immigration Officials at the borders. Such individuals are provided with civil record extract to be used for the entry.

Syrian diplomatic missions abroad are also authorized to issue temporary travel documents for Syrian nationals without identity documents seeking to return to Syria.

Prior to departure, we advise approaching the relevant Syrian diplomatic mission or your nearest UNHCR office for the most accurate and up-to-date information based on your specific situation.

Generally, Syrian refugees are allowed to take their personal belongings, tools, and household furniture with them when they return to Syria for the purpose of permanent residence. However, the specifics can depend on various factors such as the regulations of the host country, the logistics of transportation, and the conditions at the border.

It is important for refugees to check with relevant authorities, UNHCR or local government agencies, for detailed guidance and support regarding the transportation of personal belongings. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information based on the current situation.

• Compile your documents: passport/ID, emigrant book, inventory list, proof of long-term use for belongings, proof of ownership for vehicles.
• Bring cash in USD for duties and fees, as ATMs/credit cards may not be available.
• Declare all items openly to avoid penalties.
• Insist on stamped receipts for clearance to support any future claims or disputes.
• Verify live border regulations through UNHCR help desks before traveling. (or call the UNHCR National Call Center at 📞04726111, Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5PM)
• Track customs announcements for tariff updates or policy shifts.

UNHCR believes it is important for refugees to assess conditions firsthand in their area of intended return, such as through short ‘go-and-see’ visits. However, each asylum country has its own policies regarding re-entry:

Türkiye

• In Türkiye, the Presidency of Migration Management allows a maximum of three go-and-see visits by the head of household. If the head of household cannot travel, another adult family member may go instead. Those using their authorized exit right must re-enter Türkiye through the same border gate they exited from.
• For details, visit UNHCR Türkiye Help Page for Movement Procedure.

Lebanon

• UNHCR Lebanon is working with the Lebanese Government to operationalize the go-and-see visit soon under some specific conditions.
• For details, visit the UNHCR Lebanon Help Page for Go-and-See Visits

UNHCR will continue to discuss with relevant authorities and update communities and partners on rules and regulations applicable to go and see visits.