Visa Guide for Tajikistan: Everything You Need to Know

Planning a trip to Tajikistan? Understanding the visa requirements is essential before your journey. Tajikistan offers visa-free entry for many countries, as well as e-visas and visas on arrival for others. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a visa for Tajikistan, including GBAO permits for those wishing to explore the stunning Pamir Mountains.

1. Visa-Free Entry to Tajikistan

Tajikistan allows visa-free travel for citizens of over 60 countries. If your country is on the visa-free list, you can enter Tajikistan without a visa and stay for up to 30 to 90 days (depending on your nationality).

Visa-Free Countries (30 to 90 Days Stay)

• Unlimited Stay: Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan
• 90 Days: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine
• 30 Days: European Union (Schengen Zone), Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, UAE, and others

 Important:

• The United Kingdom and Turkey are NOT on the visa-free list and require an e-visa.
• If you are traveling to the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO), you will still need a GBAO permit (see below).

2. E-Visa for Tajikistan (For Travelers Who Need a Visa)

If your nationality is not on the visa-free list, you can apply for an e-visa online before arrival.

Tajikistan E-Visa Details

• Website: www.evisa.tj
• Processing Time: 1–3 business days
• Validity: 90 days (allows a stay of up to 60 days)
• Entry: Single or multiple entry
• Cost:
  • Single-Entry E-Visa: $30
  • Multiple-Entry E-Visa: $50

How to Apply for a Tajikistan E-Visa

1. Visit the official e-visa website.
2. Fill out the visa application form.
3. Upload a passport scan (valid for at least 6 months).
4. Pay the visa fee online.
5. Receive your approved e-visa by email within 1–3 business days.
6. Print a copy of your e-visa to present at immigration.

 Tip: The e-visa is valid for entry through Dushanbe, Khujand, and Kulob international airports, as well as land borders with Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and China.

3. Visa on Arrival (Limited Availability)

Visa on arrival is only available at Dushanbe International Airport for travelers from a few select countries. However, it is recommended to apply for an e-visa instead to avoid any issues.

Visa on Arrival Details

• Available for select nationalities (check with the nearest Tajik embassy).
• Requires a valid passport and supporting documents.
• Processing time: Can take up to 1 hour at the airport.
• Recommended alternative: Apply for an e-visa in advance for faster entry.

4. GBAO Permit – Required for the Pamir Mountains

If you plan to visit the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO), including the Pamir Highway, Wakhan Corridor, and Bartang Valley, you need a GBAO permit.

How to Get a GBAO Permit

Option 1: Apply Online with Your E-Visa (For Travelers Who Need a Visa)

• Cost: $20
• Process: When applying for your e-visa, select the option for the GBAO permit.
• Approval: The permit will be stamped on your e-visa.
• Where to Apply: www.evisa.tj
• Processing Time: 1–3 business days

Option 2: Apply in Tajikistan (For Visa-Free Travelers)

• Where: OVIR offices in Dushanbe or Khujand
• Processing Time: 1–3 business days
• Documents Required: Passport copy and travel details

Option 3: Let Us Arrange Your GBAO Permit in Advance

We can arrange the GBAO permit for you before your arrival, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Simply provide us with:
✔ A copy of your passport
✔ Your exact travel dates

This way, your permit will be ready before your trip, allowing you to enjoy your journey without delays.

 Contact us at info@roofoftheworldtravel.com to request your GBAO permit in advance!

5. OVIR Registration – Do You Need It?

Who Needs OVIR Registration?

• Tourists can stay in Tajikistan for up to 10 working days (or 14 calendar days, including weekends and holidays) without registration.
• If you are staying longer than 10 working days (14 days total), you must register with OVIR (Office of Visas and Registration).
• Hotels, hostels, and official guesthouses do not automatically register their guests. Some hotels may offer registration if you stay for 10 days or more, but it is not guaranteed.
• If you are staying in a private home, guesthouse, or camping, you must register yourself at an OVIR office.

How to Register at OVIR

• Where to Register: OVIR offices in Dushanbe, Khujand, Khorog, or other major cities
• Processing Time: Same day or up to 3 business days
• Cost: Varies, typically $20–$30
• Documents Required:
  ✔ Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  ✔ Tajik visa or entry stamp
  ✔ Proof of accommodation (if applicable)

 Important: Failure to register within 10 working days (14 calendar days total) may result in fines or issues at border crossings.

6. Border Crossings & Visa Extensions

Land Border Crossings

Tajikistan shares land borders with Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China, and Afghanistan. If entering by land:

• Check if your e-visa or visa-free status allows land entry.
• Some remote borders, like Kulma Pass (China), require additional permits.

Visa Extensions

If you need to stay in Tajikistan longer:

• E-visas & tourist visas cannot be extended.
• If visa-free, check your maximum stay limit before entering.
• Business visas can be extended at the OVIR office in Dushanbe.

7. Tajikistan Travel Tips

 Check Entry Requirements: Always verify visa rules for your nationality before traveling.
 Print Your Visa & GBAO Permit: A hard copy is required at immigration checkpoints.
 Carry Cash for Fees: Some border posts may not accept card payments.
 Respect Local Laws: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.

Final Thoughts

For most travelers, visiting Tajikistan is visa-free or requires only an easy e-visa application. If you plan to explore the Pamir Mountains, don’t forget to apply for a GBAO permit in advance.

Need help planning your trip? Contact Roof of the World Travel for visa assistance, itinerary planning, and travel permits!

 info@roofoftheworldtravel.com
+992 935 637 141
 www.roofoftheworldtravel.com