Central Asia visas: Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan

Central Asia has opened up a lot in recent years: citizens of most European and CIS countries can now enter three of the five countries without a visa. Rules differ and change from time to time, so always check official sources before you go.

Kyrgyzstan

Citizens of many countries, including the EU, the UK and the US, can visit visa-free for a limited period (usually up to 60 days). Citizens of the Eurasian Economic Union countries enter without a visa. Others can apply for an e-visa.

Kazakhstan

Short visa-free stays are available to citizens of most EU countries, the UK, the US and many others. Citizens of Eurasian Economic Union countries enter visa-free and can stay longer.

Uzbekistan

Visa-free stays of up to 30 days are open to citizens of dozens of countries, including the EU. Citizens of Russia and some CIS countries can stay visa-free for longer. Other nationalities can apply for an e-visa. After arrival you must be registered — hotels do this automatically.

Tajikistan

Most nationalities can get an e-visa, and some countries now have visa-free entry. Travelling to Gorno-Badakhshan — the Pamirs — requires a separate GBAO permit, which you can request together with the e-visa.

Turkmenistan

The most closed country in the region. Tourist visas are issued on a letter of invitation through an accredited tour operator, and travel inside the country is usually with a guide. Processing takes several weeks, so start early.

• Check your passport validity — ideally at least six months beyond your trip
• Confirm current rules on official foreign ministry and embassy websites
• Arrange the GBAO permit in advance if you are going to the Pamirs
• Keep migration cards and registration slips when crossing several borders

The most common mistake is forgetting the Pamir permit. Without it you are turned back at the checkpoint, even with a valid visa.

On multi-country tours we tell you in advance which documents you need for your nationality and help with permits and invitations.