Travel Insurance for Libya

Country Risk Code: Extreme

Due to the ongoing conflict and clashes, many governments have advised their citizens not to travel to Libya. However, whether you intend to visit or work in Libya, you should note that the country is considered high-risk. Hence, having the right travel insurance is essential.

Economic and Political Landscape in Libya

In the past, Libya was an attractive and desirable country for most western expatriates in the engineering and construction industry and the oil and gas sector. However, since 2011 the country has experienced military and political instability after the fall of Colonel Gadhafi, which made most foreign companies leave their business and the country. There were frequent clashes between terrorists, ethnic and religious groups. The country became more difficult to operate in as the economy declined.

Potential Risks

Foreign visitors should be cautious as there is a high risk of terrorism, violence, and military attacks. These attacks usually target foreign nationals, especially westerners. Insecurity and political instability are also prevalent as there are widespread, ongoing violent clashes in Libya. The roads leading to the Libyan and Tunisian borders can be closed with prior notice due to a series of conflicts.

Health Risks

There is the risk of contracting COVID-19 in Libya. Foodborne, parasitic, and waterborne disease diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid, measles, tuberculosis, and plague are prevalent in Libya.
Libya has limited healthcare facilities; hence there are a limited variety of medicines.

Transport in Libya

Road conditions are pretty okay in Libya, but the standard of driving is relatively poor. There is also heavy traffic on major Libyan roads. Wind can blow sand which can affect your visibility while driving.

Local Laws

• Libya hasn't re-established the rule of law.
• There are heavy penalties such as death or life imprisonment if found guilty of drug offenses and serious crimes.
• Officials may withhold your passport if you are involved in a business feud and only release it when the feud is settled.
• It's illegal to engage in same-sex relationships. Adultery is also unlawful.
• Islamic law prevails over child custody cases. Children can only leave Libya with their father's permission.

Travel Tips

• Review your security arrangement thoroughly before you go on your trip to Libya.
• Always carry your ID documents with you.
• Do not travel during dark hours.
• Make photocopies of your valuable documents such As visas, passports, and tickets. Keep the original document separate from the photocopied one.
• Don't carry valuables and excess cash with you while traveling; carry on the amount you need and avoid flaunting expensive items in public.
• Stay away from Algeria, Chad, Niger, and Sudan border areas; there is a high risk of danger as armed groups and bandits operate in those areas. Also, avoid the cross border between these countries and Libya.
• Libya has extreme weather. Make sure you follow weather forecasts and make plans for the weather.
• Stick to only bottled or boiled water.
• Avoid swimming in freshwater.
• Take some personal medical supplies with you.
• Avoid leaving Libya through land borders. There's a high risk of kidnap in border areas of Chad, Niger, and Sudan.
• Make sure your passport is registered in a police station.
• Avoid large gatherings and areas where there are public protests.

Choosing the Right Insurance for Your Trip to Libya

Many governments advise their citizens not to travel. Going to Libya against your government advice can affect your travel insurance. Ensure you read and understand the policy before taking a trip to this country. Travel insurance is vital in Libya due to the precarious state of the country. International medical insurance along with cover for emergency evacuation is essential if you plan to travel to Libya.
What’s more, there is a high risk of kidnap; you consider getting kidnap and ransom insurance to protect you if it happens. When it comes to personal security, note that standard policies are not valid due to high risk. Whether you are involved in a road accident or any health condition, you won't be able to access a standard policy. You should get a specialist Libya insurance that will cover everything you need and remain valid regardless of the potential risks. Healthcare facilities are limited; check that your insurance provides cover for emergency evacuation in case there's an emergency.