Yes, the original passport is required to apply for the visa.

• Original passport - valid for six months with at least two blank pages & should not bear any Israeli stamps;
• Letter from the employer on headed notepaper, confirming that the applicant is currently employed.
• 2 colour passport photographs;
• 2 visa forms (per person) to be completed and signed;
• A registered or recorded self-addressed envelope with exact postage;

The tourist visa is only valid for leisure or recreational purposes.

Nationals of all countries need visa to visit Syria.
Nationals of all countries may apply for a tourist visa. There are no restrictions.

Passport holder of the following countries do not require a Syrian visa: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Tunisia, UAE and Yemen.

The processing time for British residents is 5 working days, after receipt of the application.
The processing time for Irish residents is 10 working days, after receipt of the application.

There area both single and multiple entry visas.

British residents, single entry visa – 50 GBP.
British residents, multiple entry visa – 75 GBP.

Irish residents, single entry visa – 74 EUR.
Irish residents, multiple entry visa – 107 EUR.

On a single entry visa you have three months to travel to Syria.

On a multiple entry visa you have six months to travel to Syria.