7.6.5. Cross-border movement

7.6.5. Cross-border movement

During the reference period, Syrian nationals were entering Lebanon at the same time as Syrian refugees were returning to Syria from Lebanon.765 In November 2024, the General Directorate of General Security made amendments to the entry regulations for Syrian refugees, amongst others requiring clearance for short-term stays in Lebanon and shortening the permitted stay durations for certain groups such as Syrian parents of Lebanese citizens (from one month to 15 days) and spouses of Palestinian refugees (from six months to one week). Moreover, re-entry to Lebanon is only permitted to individuals who have not received a re-entry ban upon exit. Community sources consulted by UNHCR reported of Syrian refugees crossing into Syria who were issued re-entry bans despite having valid UNHCR documentation. In December 2024, the General Directorate of the General Security established in an internal circular that Syrian citizens were only allowed to enter Lebanon if they held a transit visa with proof of onward travel or were in possession of a valid annual or permanent residency permit.766 Due to the restrictive entry regulation and non-re-entry policy for Syrian refugees who have left Lebanon, many resorted to irregular means of entering the country.767

No information could be found on the impact of the new government in Syria on Syrian refugees, notably their treatment while crossing the border.