The eastern-based administration in Libya has announced a new immigration policy prohibiting citizens of four African nations from entering territories under its control through all official entry points.
The directive, issued on Tuesday by authorities in Benghazi, bars nationals of Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia from entering eastern Libya via land borders, airports, and seaports. The decision was made by the government led by Prime Minister Osama Hamad, which governs eastern Libya and is backed by military leader Khalifa Haftar.
Officials described the measure as part of broader efforts to strengthen border management and improve the regulation of foreign nationals entering the country. While no specific reasons were provided for targeting the four countries, authorities said the move is intended to enhance migration control and administrative oversight.
The restriction applies to all territories administered by the eastern government. However, certain groups have been exempted from the ban, including accredited diplomats, consular representatives, and their immediate family members from the affected countries.
The administration also stated that professionals working in essential sectors such as healthcare, education, and medical services will still be permitted entry, provided they hold valid employment contracts and obtain the necessary approvals from relevant authorities.
Libya remains politically divided, with rival governments operating in different regions of the country. The internationally recognized administration, led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah, is based in Tripoli, while the eastern government operates from Benghazi.
The North African nation has struggled with political instability and security challenges since the 2011 uprising that led to the overthrow of longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi. The aftermath of the conflict created a power vacuum that fueled years of unrest and the emergence of competing political and military factions.
Over the past decade, Libya has also become a major transit hub for migrants and refugees seeking to reach Europe via the Mediterranean Sea. Thousands of people escaping conflict, poverty, and insecurity across Africa pass through the country each year in search of better opportunities abroad.
The migration challenge has placed increasing pressure on Libyan authorities and international humanitarian organizations. According to United Nations figures released earlier this year, more than 900,000 migrants are currently residing in Libya, making it one of the region’s largest migrant-hosting nations.
Analysts say the latest entry restrictions could affect migration patterns across North Africa, particularly for individuals from the four countries targeted by the new policy.
Authorities have not announced how long the measure will remain in force, nor have they indicated whether additional countries may face similar restrictions in the future.
For now, officials insist the policy is aimed at strengthening border security and improving the management of migration amid ongoing efforts to address security and demographic challenges facing the country.