Frequently asked questions about Kyrgyzstan

An electronic visa (e-Visa) is the easiest way to obtain authorization to enter the Kyrgyz Republic. You need to fill in the online application form and pay the fee by credit or debit card instead of going to the embassy. Once you receive your e-Visa confirmation through this portal, you will be able to enter the country during its validity period.

You can check the status of your order on this portal. In the “Check Status” section, enter your order number to go to the page with information about the current status of the request.

No, e-visa fees are non-refundable.

The e-visa application is to be filled out in English only.

All documents must be in Kyrgyz or Russian, or translated into one of these languages.

A visa may be required to travel to Kyrgyzstan. However, for citizens of 62 visa exempt countries, a passport is sufficient. Depending on your citizenship, you can stay in the country for up to 60 days without a visa. If you do not fall under the visa-free regime, you can apply for a visa on arrival.

A Letter of Invitation (LOI) is required to obtain a tourist visa. Almost all foreign nationals must provide it at the request of the tour operator. Exceptions are citizens of such countries as Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Brazil.

Travelers who exceed the 60-day visa-free period must pay an administrative fine of 10,000 soms and obtain an exit visa before departure. The fine is paid at designated banks and the receipt is presented to the police station in the place of residence.

Kyrgyzstan is a peaceful and hospitable country. The capital Bishkek and other cities have low crime rates comparable to European capitals. In the mountainous areas you will meet some of the friendliest people.

Yes, Kyrgyzstan is safe for traveling women. Local people are always friendly. However, society still expects women to fulfill traditional roles: becoming good wives, raising children, and taking care of the home.

To drive legally in the country, you will need a passport, a local driver's license and an International Driving Permit. Compliance with traffic regulations in Kyrgyzstan is extremely important.

Travel to some regions of Kyrgyzstan requires an additional border zone permit in addition to a visa. It takes at least three weeks to obtain the permit, so it is recommended to order it in advance.

A group visa is issued to a group of two or more unrelated people traveling to the same place for the same purpose.

The tourist season in Kyrgyzstan lasts from April to October, making it an ideal time for a variety of trips. In summer (from June to mid-September) you can relax on the beaches of Lake Issyk-Kul, where health resorts are open all year round. In winter, ski resorts are available. Kyrgyzstan offers interesting travel options almost all year round, depending on your preferences.

There are no strict restrictions on women's dress in Kyrgyzstan, but it is recommended to respect local cultural norms. In rural areas and in the south of the country, women tend to dress more conservatively. Tourists are advised to cover shoulders, hips and cleavage, and to avoid short skirts and shorts. In Bishkek and the north of the country, dress requirements are more liberal. When visiting churches or mosques, women should cover their heads with a headscarf and wear a skirt below the knee.

If you take prescription medications, bring enough for the entire trip in the original package with your name on it. OTC medications can be found in Kyrgyzstan, but they may be different from what you are used to. Therefore, we recommend that you take the necessary over-the-counter medications in their original packages.

Vegetarian dishes can be found in restaurants and hotels in Bishkek, as well as in Issyk-Kul. In some places you can order salads without meat. In other regions it is more difficult to find vegetarian food, but fresh fruits and vegetables are always available at local markets.

Most banks, hotels and some stores accept Visa and MasterCard. In smaller towns and rural areas, payment can only be made in cash. ATMs are available in larger towns and accept major international cards. Exchange offices for currencies are also common.

The voltage used in Kyrgyzstan is 220V. For appliances operating on 110/120V, a converter will be required.