Libya and US discuss visa application hurdles in Tripoli consular meeting

Libya's Tripoli-based Foreign Ministry and the United States Embassy have held talks on consular cooperation, with visa application difficulties facing citizens of both countries on the agenda. The Ministry reported the meeting on 20 October 2026, saying it had taken place the previous day. No changes to visa rules, fees or procedures were announced.

Key facts

• The meeting took place in Tripoli and was reported by the Libyan Foreign Ministry on 20 October 2026.
• Libya was represented by Alaa al-Din El-Hashimi Ben Rajab, Director of the Americas Department.
• The US Embassy side was led by Janet Robert, who recently assumed duties as Head of Consular Affairs.
• Visa application challenges for citizens of both countries were discussed.
• No new visa rules, fees, deadlines or timelines were announced.

Who attended?

Alaa al-Din El-Hashimi Ben Rajab, Director of the Americas Department at the Libyan Foreign Ministry, met Janet Robert, Head of Consular Affairs at the US Embassy to Libya. The Ministry said the meeting began with a welcome to Ms Robert following her recent assumption of consular duties.

Also present were Mr El-Harsha, Head of the United States and Canada Section, and Mr Rawad Shalabi, Second Secretary at the Department, together with Ms Madiha Othman, Consular Affairs Assistant at the US Embassy.

What was discussed?

The two sides looked at the main challenges and obstacles citizens of both countries face in visa application procedures, and exchanged views on possible ways to address them. The Embassy said the aim was to make procedures easier while keeping to the national legislation and legal requirements of both countries.

Both sides stressed the importance of keeping institutional communication and coordination channels open to handle matters of mutual interest. The Ministry described the meeting as part of continuing efforts to build dialogue and practical cooperation.

What this means for travellers

The talks do not change anything for travellers at this stage: no revised application process, fee or processing time has been announced. Travellers applying for Libyan or US visas should continue to follow the current procedures, and watch for any future announcements from either side.

The Ministry said the two sides agreed to keep consulting and to develop practical solutions to the challenges under discussion. No date for a follow-up meeting has been given.