Beirut (Enmaeya News) — Lebanese citizens living abroad can now replace their old blue passports with biometric ones without returning to Lebanon, following a new decision by the General Directorate of General Security.

The announcement marks a major shift in consular policy, allowing any blue passport issued after 2003—whether expired or still valid—to be exchanged for a biometric passport directly through Lebanese embassies and consulates. The move is expected to benefit thousands of expatriates who have long faced logistical and bureaucratic challenges when renewing travel documents.

This development comes as part of a broader effort to modernize Lebanon’s passport system and streamline access to government services for its global diaspora. Since biometric passports became the national standard in 2016, demand for in-person renewals in Beirut has placed increasing pressure on local passport centers. By expanding biometric issuance to missions abroad, authorities hope to ease that burden while aligning with international security and travel standards.

Reactions from Lebanese communities overseas have been overwhelmingly positive, with many viewing the change as a long-overdue reform that makes travel and documentation more accessible. With this step, Lebanon not only simplifies an essential process but also reaffirms its commitment to serving citizens beyond its borders.