Foreigners staying in the country longer than three days in a private residence must register with the Visas and
Regulations Office (
Bishkek); hotels will register guests for them.
Americans: US nationals require a valid passport. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival, but it is recommended that visas be organized prior to arrival.
UK nationals: UK nationals require a valid passport. British citizens can obtain a one-month visa on arrival, but it is recommended that visas be organized prior to arrival. Other UK passport holders will need to get a visa in advance.
Canadians: Canadians require
a valid passport. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival, but it is recommended that visas be organized prior to arrival.
Australians: Australians require a valid passport. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival, but it is recommended that visas be organized prior to arrival.
South Africans: South Africans require a valid passport. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival, but only if a sponsor has announced the arrival to the
Kyrgyzstan authorities. It is recommended that visas be organized prior to arrival.
Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a valid passport. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival, but it is recommended that visas be organized prior to arrival.
New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals require a valid passport. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival, but it is recommended that visas be organized prior to arrival.
Health
There is a risk of malaria from June to November, mainly in the areas bordering
Uzbekistan and
Tajikistan, but cases have also been reported from Bishkek. There have been outbreaks of anthrax, and travelers are advised to avoid buying meat from local markets and should ensure that all food is well cooked before eating. Visitors are recommended to drink bottled water only. Medical care and medical supplies are limited and it may be difficult to find someone who speaks English. Comprehensive medical insurance is advised, which should include air evacuation.
Safety
Visitors are often a target for muggings and theft, mainly in the cities, but also occurring in the rural areas. It is therefore not advisable to display wealth, take unofficial taxis or public transport, or walk in unlit areas at night. There is a threat of terrorist activity particularly in the south west. The political situation is tense due in part to continuing high levels of corruption and crime, and all demonstrations should be avoided. Tensions also exist over recognition of the Kyrgyz-Uzbek borders and most governments advise against travel to the Ferghana Valley area, as well as along the Tajik-Kyrgyz border. Avalanches and mudslides in mountainous areas are common in the spring with the snow melt, and this leads to frequent road closures and disruption to transport.
