Kyrgyzstan Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Kyrgyzstan, a mountainous Central Asian nation, maintains a relatively open visa policy to encourage tourism and business travel. The country offers visa-free entry to citizens of numerous countries, while others can obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) online before travel. Entry requirements vary based on nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. The immigration process in Kyrgyzstan is generally straightforward, with most travelers entering through Manas International Airport in Bishkek or via land borders with neighboring countries. Immigration officers will verify your passport validity, visa status, and may ask about your travel plans. Registration requirements apply for stays exceeding certain durations, and travelers should be prepared to show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds. Before traveling to Kyrgyzstan, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Familiarize yourself with customs regulations, particularly regarding currency declaration and prohibited items. While the country has simplified entry procedures in recent years, it's essential to verify current requirements with official sources, as policies can change, especially regarding health protocols and visa regulations.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Kyrgyzstan offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 60 countries, electronic visa options for many others, and traditional visa applications for remaining nationalities. The visa policy is designed to facilitate tourism while maintaining border security.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 60 days within a 180-day period

Citizens of these countries can enter Kyrgyzstan without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

United States United Kingdom European Union member states (all 27 countries) Australia Canada New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia United Arab Emirates Turkey Russia Kazakhstan CIS member states Hong Kong Macao Argentina Brazil Chile Cuba Mongolia Israel

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay. Registration with local authorities (OVIR) is required if staying longer than 60 days or if specified by accommodation provider. Some nationalities may have different duration allowances - verify specific requirements for your nationality.

Electronic Travel Authorization (e-Visa)

Single entry for up to 90 days (tourist/business), with options for 30, 60, or 90-day stays

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry can apply for an electronic visa online

Includes

India China Indonesia Philippines Vietnam Thailand Egypt South Africa Nigeria Kenya Pakistan Bangladesh Sri Lanka Nepal Mexico Colombia Peru Morocco Algeria Tunisia Most African and Asian countries not listed under visa-free

How to Apply: Apply online at www.evisa.e-gov.kg at least 3 business days before travel. Processing typically takes 1-5 business days. Upload passport copy, photo, and travel details. E-visa is sent via email and must be printed and presented at entry.
Cost: Approximately $51-71 USD depending on duration (30, 60, or 90 days) plus service fees

E-visa must be used within 90 days of issuance. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly. Keep printed copy with you throughout your stay. E-visa is valid for entry through all official border crossings including airports and land borders.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type, typically 30-90 days

Some nationalities must apply for a traditional visa at a Kyrgyz embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Kyrgyz embassy or consulate with completed application form, passport photos, passport valid for 6+ months, invitation letter (if required), proof of accommodation, and travel itinerary. Processing time varies from 5-15 business days.

Required for nationalities not eligible for visa-free entry or e-visa, including citizens of certain countries with specific bilateral agreements. Contact the nearest Kyrgyz diplomatic mission for specific requirements. Business visas may require invitation letters from Kyrgyz companies or organizations.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in Kyrgyzstan, whether by air or land, travelers proceed through immigration control where officers verify documentation and entry eligibility. The process is generally efficient, though wait times can vary depending on arrival time and number of simultaneous arrivals.

Arrival and Documentation

Present your passport, visa (if required), and completed migration card (distributed on aircraft or available at border). Keep the departure portion of the migration card for exit.

Immigration Interview

Immigration officer reviews your documents, may ask about purpose of visit, accommodation plans, and return travel. Answer clearly and have supporting documents ready if requested.

Entry Stamp

Officer stamps your passport with entry date and permitted duration of stay. Verify the dates are correct before leaving the counter.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the designated carousel. Report missing or damaged baggage to airline representatives immediately.

Customs Declaration

Proceed through customs control. Use the red channel if you have goods to declare (currency over limits, restricted items) or green channel if nothing to declare.

Exit to Arrivals

After clearing customs, exit to the public arrivals area where you can arrange transportation or meet contacts.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Kyrgyzstan. Ensure you have blank pages for entry/exit stamps.

Visa or E-Visa (if applicable)

Printed copy of e-visa or visa sticker in passport. Ensure all details match your passport information exactly.

Migration Card

Completed arrival/departure card provided on aircraft or at border. Fill out completely and accurately. Keep the departure portion for your exit.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Kyrgyzstan within your permitted stay. May be requested by immigration officers or airlines.

Accommodation Confirmation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter, or address where you'll be staying. Required for registration purposes and may be requested at entry.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate ability to support yourself during your stay. Rarely requested but advisable to have available.

Travel Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation is highly recommended.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Keep all entry documents together in an easily accessible location during your flight and at immigration. This includes passport, visa, migration card, and accommodation details.

Fill out your migration card carefully and legibly before reaching the immigration counter. Use block letters and ensure all information matches your passport.

Have small denominations of US dollars or euros available for any unexpected fees or transportation from the airport, as ATMs may not always be immediately accessible.

Take a photo or make copies of your passport, visa, and migration card departure portion. Store these separately from originals as backup.

Learn basic Russian or Kyrgyz greetings. While not required, a simple 'Salamatsyzby' (hello in Kyrgyz) or 'Zdravstvuyte' (Russian) can be appreciated.

Register with your embassy upon arrival if staying for an extended period. This helps in case of emergencies or civil unrest.

Keep your migration card departure portion safe throughout your stay - you'll need it to exit the country. Many travelers keep it stapled inside their passport.

If staying longer than 60 days, register with OVIR (local migration authority) within 5 days of arrival through your accommodation provider or independently.

Customs & Duty-Free

Kyrgyzstan customs regulations are designed to prevent smuggling while allowing reasonable personal items for travelers. All travelers must pass through customs control after collecting baggage. Choose the appropriate channel (red for declarations, green for nothing to declare) and be prepared to open luggage for inspection if requested.

Alcohol

Up to 2 liters of alcoholic beverages per adult

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol must be for personal use, not commercial purposes. Excessive quantities may be subject to duty or confiscation.

Tobacco

Up to 600 cigarettes or 600 grams of tobacco products per adult

Must be 18 years or older. For personal consumption only. Some sources indicate limits of 200 cigarettes, so conservative amounts recommended.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency, but amounts exceeding $10,000 USD (or equivalent) must be declared

Declaration required for cash, traveler's checks, and monetary instruments exceeding threshold. Undeclared amounts may be confiscated. Keep declaration form if you plan to exit with large amounts. Local currency (som) up to 200,000 KGS can be imported/exported without declaration.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and goods for personal use up to $5,000 USD in value

Items clearly for personal use during your stay are generally exempt. Commercial quantities or valuable items may require declaration and payment of duties. New items in packaging may raise questions.

Electronics

Personal electronic devices (laptop, camera, phone) for personal use

Multiple identical items or professional equipment may require declaration or temporary import documentation. Drones require special permits from aviation authorities.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Kyrgyzstan has strict drug laws with severe penalties including long prison sentences
Weapons and ammunition - Including firearms, knives with blades over certain length, tasers, and pepper spray without proper permits
Explosives and flammable materials - Including fireworks and certain chemicals
Counterfeit goods - Fake branded items, pirated media, and counterfeit currency
Pornographic materials - Including printed, digital, or video content deemed pornographic
Materials inciting religious hatred or extremism - Publications or media promoting terrorism or ethnic hatred
Endangered species products - Items made from protected animals or plants under CITES regulations
Radioactive materials - Without proper authorization and documentation
Certain chemicals and precursors - Substances that could be used for drug manufacture
Gambling equipment - Slot machines and certain gaming devices

Restricted Items

Medications - Prescription medications allowed in reasonable quantities for personal use with doctor's prescription and original packaging. Psychotropic substances require special permits. Carry documentation for all medications.
Cultural artifacts and antiques - Export of items of cultural or historical value requires permit from Ministry of Culture. This includes old books, manuscripts, artwork, carpets, and archaeological items.
Precious metals and stones - Gold, silver, and gems may require declaration and documentation. Commercial quantities require permits.
Professional photo/video equipment - May require temporary import documentation and payment of deposit, refundable upon exit with equipment.
Satellite phones and certain communications equipment - May require registration with authorities
Drones and UAVs - Require permits from State Service for Regulation and Supervision in the Field of Aviation under the Cabinet of Ministers
Plants and plant products - Phytosanitary certificates required for importing plants, seeds, and certain agricultural products
Live animals - See special situations section for pet requirements. Wildlife requires CITES permits.

Health Requirements

Kyrgyzstan does not currently require specific vaccinations for entry for most travelers, though this can change based on global health situations and traveler's origin. Health requirements may be stricter for travelers arriving from countries with endemic diseases.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. Certificate must be presented at entry.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date on routine vaccines including MMR, DPT, polio, and influenza
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential food and water contamination
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Rabies - Consider for travelers spending time outdoors, around animals, or in rural areas
Tuberculosis - BCG vaccine may be considered for long-term travelers or those working in healthcare
Tick-borne Encephalitis - Recommended for travelers planning extensive hiking or camping, especially spring through autumn

Health Insurance

Health insurance is not mandatory for entry but is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Kyrgyzstan are limited, especially outside Bishkek, and serious conditions may require medical evacuation to better-equipped facilities in neighboring countries or Europe. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation (which can cost $50,000+), emergency treatment, and activities you plan to undertake (trekking, mountaineering, etc.). Many hospitals require upfront payment or proof of insurance before treatment.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 requirements have been largely lifted, but verify current health protocols before travel as they can be reinstated. Check official sources for any testing, vaccination, or quarantine requirements. Some countries may have specific health screening requirements based on disease outbreaks. Travelers should monitor WHO advisories and the Kyrgyz Ministry of Health website for updates. Consider health conditions at high altitudes if visiting mountainous regions - altitude sickness is a real concern above 2,500 meters.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Bishkek for citizen services, emergency assistance, and travel advisories

Register with your embassy if staying for extended periods. Major embassies located in Bishkek include US, UK, Germany, France, Russia, China, Turkey, and others. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure.

Immigration Authority

State Registration Service under the Government of Kyrgyz Republic - handles visa extensions, registration, and immigration matters

E-visa portal: www.evisa.e-gov.kg | For registration (OVIR): Contact local offices in your area of stay or through your accommodation provider. Main office in Bishkek: Bokonbaeva Street 237.

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 112 (unified emergency number) | Police: 102 | Ambulance: 103 | Fire: 101

English speakers may be limited. Consider having a Russian or Kyrgyz speaker assist if possible. Response times vary significantly between urban and rural areas.

Tourist Police

Tourist police units operate in Bishkek and major tourist areas to assist travelers

Bishkek Tourist Police: +996 312 62-18-79. They can assist with reporting crimes, lost documents, and tourist-related issues.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Consular Department: +996 312 62-30-05

For visa inquiries and official diplomatic matters. Website: www.mfa.gov.kg (available in Kyrgyz, Russian, and English)

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (cannot be on parent's passport for entry to Kyrgyzstan). If traveling with one parent or without parents, carry notarized consent letter from non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing travel, including child's details, travel dates, and accompanying adult's information. This is especially important for children with different surnames from accompanying adults. Adoption papers or custody documents should be carried if applicable. Some airlines may require additional documentation. Children are subject to same visa requirements as adults but may qualify for reduced e-visa fees.

Traveling with Pets

Pets (dogs and cats) require: (1) Veterinary health certificate issued within 5 days of travel by licensed veterinarian, (2) Rabies vaccination certificate showing vaccination at least 30 days but no more than 12 months before travel, (3) International veterinary passport, (4) Import permit from Kyrgyz veterinary authorities (apply in advance), (5) Microchip identification recommended. Upon arrival, pets must pass veterinary inspection at port of entry. Quarantine may be imposed if documentation is incomplete or animal shows signs of illness. Airlines have specific requirements for pet travel - check with carrier. Certain breeds may be restricted. Birds and exotic animals have additional requirements.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas and visa-free stays are typically limited to 60-90 days. For longer stays: (1) Apply for visa extension at State Registration Service before your current authorization expires (apply at least 7 days before expiration), (2) Provide justification for extension, proof of funds, accommodation, and pay extension fees, (3) Consider applying for temporary residence permit if staying 6+ months (requires invitation from Kyrgyz entity, medical certificate, and extensive documentation), (4) Work or study requires specific visa types obtained before arrival or through sponsoring organization, (5) Overstaying visa results in fines, deportation, and potential entry bans. Register with OVIR within 5 days of arrival if staying over 60 days. Business activities require business visa, not tourist visa.

Border Crossings from Neighboring Countries

Kyrgyzstan shares borders with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. Not all border crossings are open to foreigners or third-country nationals. Major international crossings include: Korday/Ak-Jol (Kazakhstan), Kara-Balta (Kazakhstan), Chon-Kapka/Torugart (China - requires special permit), Irkeshtam (China), Dostyk (Uzbekistan), Kulundu (Tajikistan). Some crossings have limited hours or close seasonally. Verify crossing is open to your nationality before attempting. Chinese border crossings require special permits arranged in advance. Land border facilities may have limited services. Ensure you have proper visas for all countries you're transiting through.

Dual Citizens and Former Kyrgyz Citizens

Dual citizens should enter and exit Kyrgyzstan using their Kyrgyz passport. Former Kyrgyz citizens who renounced citizenship may face additional scrutiny or questions. If you were born in Kyrgyzstan or held Kyrgyz citizenship, carry documentation of citizenship status. Some former citizens may be required to obtain special permission to exit if military service obligations are unresolved. Consult with Kyrgyz embassy before travel if you have complex citizenship history.

Journalists and Film Crews

Professional journalists, documentary makers, and film crews require special accreditation from Ministry of Foreign Affairs and/or Ministry of Culture. Apply well in advance (at least 30 days) through Kyrgyz embassy. Provide detailed itinerary, purpose of filming, crew list, and equipment list. Tourist visas do not authorize professional journalism or commercial filming. Violations can result in equipment confiscation, deportation, and fines. Amateur photography and personal video for non-commercial use is generally permitted.

Mountaineering and Trekking in Border Areas

Many popular trekking and mountaineering areas are in border zones requiring special permits. Border zone permits must be obtained from State Border Service (apply through tour operators or independently at least 60 days in advance). Provide passport copies, detailed itinerary, and justification. Some peaks and areas are completely restricted. Lenin Peak, Khan Tengri, and other major peaks require climbing permits from relevant authorities. Always trek with registered guides in border areas. Carry permits and identification at all times. Border guards conduct regular patrols and checks.