Until relatively recently Libya was exposed to far reaching sanctions and restrictions but in recent years political developments have led to Libya no longer being annexed and a growing number of international citizens are now living and working in Libya - particularly in the aid and oil industries.

Libya is also developing an emerging tourism economy for the very first time which is leading to a small number of vacancies for international specialists, guides and tour operators.

UN sanctions were lifted against Libya back in September 2003 and US sanctions were lifted almost exactly a year later at which time the US government stopped restricting its citizens’ entry into Libya – this was the pattern which the governments of most nations have since followed which has opened up Libya as an overseas location for would be expats from around the world. 

In terms of those who do decide to move to live in Libya, because the economy of Libya is dominated by its oil resources so the majority of expatriates living in Libya today are related to this industry in one way or another.  As mentioned earlier there are a few other alternatives available to those hoping to spend time in Libya and these include working in the development, assistance and teaching fields for example.  This is because Libya is a nation seeking to diversify its economy and to improve both its infrastructure and the living conditions of its citizens as well, and it is a nation with no false pride to restrict it from seeking the advice and assistance of international experts.

The other area of the economy emerging as a potential employment market for international citizens is the tourism industry as stated, and certain expatriate individuals have already found work as tour guides in Libya for example.

Almost all foreign nationals living and working in Libya require a visa to do so.  Visas are not required by those who herald from various Arabic or African countries only, therefore all others and anyone in doubt should contact their nearest Libyan embassy before they travel.  Once a visa for tourism or business has been issued it is usually valid for up to three months for entry into Libya of one month.  Visas can be extended once someone is in the country; they simply visit the nearest immigration office.  Work and residency permits are not expensive, they are issued as temporary visas and anyone applying for one has to have sponsor; furthermore anyone planning on travelling to Libya has to have an invitation to do so.  Often a travel agency will arrange this, although those travelling to the nation to seek work may require a local sponsor in the form of a family member, friend or business person already living in Libya.

Those planning a visit to the country or moving to live or work in Libya must be aware that the nation takes its Islamic values very seriously and visitors to the country must respect Libya and the Libyan people’s beliefs.  Alcohol and drugs are banned – no exceptions (although a number of expatriates use oranges to make their own wine and malt and hops to make their own beer).  Women should dress conservatively although they are not expected to wear headscarves, and no one should travel to Libya if they are unaware of the traditions, rules, regulations and laws that they must abide by because they will either cause offence or end up being ostracized if their behaviour offends.

For expatriates living and working in Libya the initial entry into the country can cause a degree of culture shock, the best way to get the most out of the experience of spending time in Libya is to find housing close to other expatriates and socialise and network with like minded people.  The Libyans themselves are exceptionally welcoming and are pleased when foreign nationals take the time to learn the language and customs; but it’s a fact that most expats socialise the majority of their time with other expatriates simply because they find it more familiar, less formal and far easier to communicate.

Finally, women are permitted to drive and work in Libya although the vast majority of non-Libyan women in the country are accompanying their husbands on assignment, these women sometimes take teaching or administrative posts for example to help them get out and about and meet more people and make friends.  The quicker those living and working in Libya develop a community of friends and associates the sooner they will settle into their new life.