General Guidance

While recent rapidly changing events in Syria present a remarkable opportunity for Syria to move toward peace and for millions to begin returning home, it is too early for UNHCR to advise refugees about the situation in areas of intended returns, as it is expected to continue to change.

UNHCR maintains its position that all refugees have the fundamental right to return to their home country freely and voluntarily, at a time of their choosing. It is not up to UNHCR or anyone else to make the decision on return on behalf of refugees. Refugees are best placed to make that decision, based on their individual situation, that of their family and their homes in Syria.

UNHCR continues to call on States not to forcibly return Syrian nationals and others that used to live in Syria, including Palestinians, to any part of Syria.

If you are considering returning to Syria:

• UNHCR is actively working with authorities in Lebanon and Syria to ensure that refugees who voluntarily choose to return to Syria, may do so in a safe and dignified manner.
• While UNHCR does not currently promote large-scale return movements, we are preparing to assist with practical support. This includes potential transportation arrangements, guidance on exit procedures, advice on essential documents to carry, and recommendations on how to prepare for the journey. UNHCR is also exploring the possibility of providing limited multipurpose cash support for those opting to return.
• In addition, UNHCR has successfully advocated for “go-and-see” visits, which will enable refugees to assess conditions in their areas of intended return firsthand before making an informed decision.
• Inside Syria, the security situation continues to change. While we cannot provide confirmed information about the security situation, UNHCR is present on the ground through more than 100 community centers across the country. UNHCR is providing awareness raising sessions, psychosocial and legal assistance for forcibly displaced Syrians returning home (for information on services in Syria, see question 4).

If you have not taken a decision to return to Syria:

UNHCR continues to work with Lebanese authorities and partners to ensure you can continue to stay in Lebanon until you are able to return home in safety and dignity.

For questions and counselling about return to Syria:

• Call the UNHCR National Call Center: 📞04726111
• Message the Online Contact Form

A UNHCR staff member will call you back to answer your questions and discuss your needs. While UNHCR cannot currently advise on the situation in your area of intended return, we can provide advice on exit procedures, important documents to take to Syria, medical issues, vaccinations and education records, the status of your UNHCR file in Lebanon if you decide to return, etc.

Yes. UNHCR continues to schedule and uphold appointments for all refugees in Lebanon. As Reception Centers have been impacted by the recent conflict in Lebanon, your appointment may be conducted remotely.

If your UNHCR appointment is cancelled (due to road closure/security constraints), your appointment will be re-scheduled on a priority basis as soon as possible and you will be informed via call or SMS.

If you have a UNHCR appointment but are concerned about travelling: Prioritize your safety. Contact UNHCR’s National Call Center. Your appointment will be re-scheduled on a priority basis as soon as possible and you will be informed via call or SMS.

[FOR REFUGEES IN THE SOUTH AND NABATIYEH ONLY]: The UNHCR Reception Center in Tyre has closed permanently. All future in-person appointments scheduled with UNHCR will take place at the UNHCR Reception Center in Beirut. Remember access to the Reception Center is only granted to those with pre-scheduled appointments. If you cannot come to Beirut, inform UNHCR when you are called to schedule your appointment or contact us for support. Access to all other services for refugees in the south and Nabatiyeh remain unchanged.

Yes. If you make the decision to voluntarily return to Syria with the intention of re-establishing yourself permanently in Syria, assistance that you may have been receiving in Lebanon will be discontinued and your file with UNHCR will be closed.  However, this will only happen after UNHCR has verified that you no longer live in Lebanon.