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.

Irish Residents:
-Tourist Visa, Single Entry: €110
-Tourist Visa, Multiple Entry: €140

NB: The fees listed above apply to Irish Passport holders only. If you hold a passport from another country, please contact the Visa First Help Desk to confirm the visa fee that will apply for you.

UK Residents:
-Tourist Visa, Single Entry: £50
-Tourist Visa, Multiple Entry: £75

NB: The fees listed above apply to British Passport holders only. If you hold a passport from another country, please contact the Visa First Help Desk to confirm the visa fee that will apply for you.

Australian Residents:
-Tourist Visa, Single Entry: AU$75
-Tourist Visa, Multiple Entry: AU$95

NB: The fees listed above apply to Australian Passport holders only. If you hold a passport from another country, please contact the Visa First Help Desk to confirm the visa fee that will apply for you.

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.