Kyrgyzstan offers several visa options, including visa-free entry for select countries, visas on arrival, eVisas, and embassy visas for travelers. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the visa policies, application processes, and requirements for Kyrgyzstan.
Who Can Travel to Kyrgyzstan Without a Visa?
Indefinite Visa-Free Stay
Citizens of these countries can stay in Kyrgyzstan indefinitely without a visa:
- Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Cuba, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Moldova, North Korea, Russia, Tajikistan
Up to 90 Days
- Mongolia, Serbia, Ukraine
Up to 60 Days
- EU Member States (except Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania), Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Iceland, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Qatar, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, UAE, UK, USA, Uzbekistan, Vatican City
Up to 30 Days
- Malaysia, Turkey
Ways to Apply for a Kyrgyzstan Visa
1. Visa on Arrival
Available at Manas International Airport for travelers from eligible countries (see detailed list below).
2. eVisa
The Kyrgyzstan eVisa is available for eligible nationals through the official government portal.
3. Embassy Visa
Required for travelers not eligible for visa-free entry, eVisa, or visa on arrival. A visa authorization letter from a sponsor in Kyrgyzstan is mandatory for this process.
Kyrgyzstan Visa on Arrival
You can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Manas International Airport if you are from one of the eligible countries. Duration varies by nationality:
- 60 Days: EU member states (except Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania), Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Japan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, USA, and others.
- 30 Days: Albania, Indonesia, Mexico, Philippines, Venezuela, South Africa, and others.
Procedure
- Present your passport (valid for at least 6 months).
- Complete the visa application form available at the airport.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Receive the visa stamp upon approval.
Kyrgyzstan eVisa
The eVisa is an online application process for travelers eligible for an electronic visa. The eVisa is valid for up to 60 days for most nationalities.
Application Steps
- Visit the official Kyrgyzstan eVisa portal.
- Check your eligibility using the “Do I Need a Visa” tool.
- Fill in the application form with personal and travel details.
- Upload a scanned copy of your passport and a passport-size photo.
- Pay the visa fee online using a debit or credit card.
- Wait for processing (around 5–7 working days).
- Print your eVisa approval and present it upon arrival.
Entry Points for eVisa Holders
- Manas International Airport
- Osh International Airport
- Select land border crossings, such as Chon Kapka, Ak-Jol, and Torugart.
Applying for a Kyrgyzstan Visa at an Embassy
For those not eligible for a visa on arrival or eVisa, an embassy visa is required. You must secure a visa authorization letter from the Kyrgyzstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs via a sponsor.
Sponsors
Your sponsor can be:
- A host (individual or organization in Kyrgyzstan)
- A travel agency
- A business partner
Steps
- Your sponsor requests an authorization letter from the Kyrgyz Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Submit the required documents to the nearest Kyrgyz Embassy along with the authorization letter.
- Pay the visa fee and wait for processing (usually 7 working days).
- Collect your visa or receive it by mail.
Required Documents for Kyrgyzstan Visa Application
- Visa application form (completed and signed)
- Passport: Valid for at least 90 days beyond the visa expiry and with one blank page
- Passport-size photo
- Visa authorization letter (if required)
- Proof of travel arrangements (flight tickets, accommodation)
- Proof of financial means
- Payment of visa fee
Kyrgyzstan Visa Fees
Visa fees vary based on the visa type and applicant’s nationality. General fees include:
- Tourist Visa (1 month, single entry): USD 40
- Business/Private/Study Visa (1 month, single entry): USD 60
- Multiple-Entry Visa (1 month): USD 70
Processing Times
- eVisa: 5–7 working days
- Embassy Visa: 7–10 working days (plus mailing time if applicable)
Duration of Kyrgyzstan Visas
- Tourist Visas: Valid for 90 days; allows stays of up to 30 days per entry.
- Business and Long-Term Visas: Issued for durations of up to six months or one year, depending on the purpose of the visit.
Can You Extend a Kyrgyzstan Visa?
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kyrgyzstan. Required documents include:
- Your passport (and copies)
- A letter explaining the need for an extension
- A passport-size photo
- Payment for the extension fee
Apply at least 10 days before your current visa expires.
Types of Kyrgyzstan Visas
1. Tourist Visa
- For short-term travel and leisure.
- Single, double, or multiple entries available.
2. Business Visa
- For business-related activities like meetings or attending events.
3. Study Visa
- Issued to international students enrolled in Kyrgyz educational institutions.
4. Work Visa
- For individuals employed in Kyrgyzstan. Requires a work permit arranged by the employer.
5. Private Visa
- For visiting relatives, medical treatment, marriage, or family reunions.
Kyrgyzstan offers flexible visa options for many travelers, with straightforward processes for eVisas and visas on arrival. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare all necessary documents for a smooth application process.