http://www.lightstalkers.org/posts/requirements-for-a-photo-permission-in-lebanon An entire Lightstalkers thread via RSS/XML. en-us Hi! Can anyone share details about current permission requirements to shoot in the Palestinian refugee camps and overall in Lebanon? I'm coming in few days there.. I googled a lot and just found some outdated informations. I believe I need to go to Ministry of Information or Ministry of Defense with the press card + a letter from the agency/publisher. My questions are: - which ministry? - how long it can take to get the permissions (i guess these permissions are the easiest ones to get there) - what should be stated in the letter? - is it better to state that I'm coming as a photojournalist or tourist at the airport's security check? - is there any problem to arrive at the BEY airport full of photography gear? i heard that the customs officer can confiscate it as you can look as a seller. does the press card/letter can save me from this situation? Note: I am NOT interested in the south of Lebanon and I know it takes time to get the permissions there both from the gov and hezbollah. Thanks in advance, feel free to contact me off the LS ls@bartskowron.com -bart Sat, 01 Sep 2012 14:24:05 +0000 http://www.lightstalkers.org/posts/requirements-for-a-photo-permission-in-lebanon Hi Bart, From my experience, you need to go to the ministry of Information, with : - the letter from your newspaper/agency, stating your exact job, the dates of your stay. It can also mention what themes you're working on. - A couple of ID pictures (there's a photo shop on the same side of the street, a block further) - Press card - passport It takes a couple of hours to a full day. I don't remember exactly, but it isn't very long, and it was even shorter the second time I went there. I don't remember saying to the airport security I was a journalist, and I still got my authorizations, even for south Lebanon. I never had troubles with my gear either (that was between october 2010 and may 2011, maybe things have changed) For the Palestinian refugee camps, it depends, I think you'll have to get army permission for the one near Sidon. As for Burj el Barajneh, Sabra and Chatila, no special permission required, it's good if you have contacts inside. Good luck! -juliette Fri, 31 Aug 2012 06:55:21 +0000 http://www.lightstalkers.org/posts/requirements-for-a-photo-permission-in-lebanon#176833 Thank you Juliette! The information you shared with me is very valuable and sounds not that hard. If anyone has more up-to-date information don't hasitate to say the word ;) Bart Fri, 31 Aug 2012 09:52:34 +0000 http://www.lightstalkers.org/posts/requirements-for-a-photo-permission-in-lebanon#176834