Kyrgyzstan border permit and border crossings
This page contains all the latest updates about the Kyrgyzstan border crossings and border permit.
- You will also find updated information about the book Explore Kyrgyzstan, particularly the condition of the routes described in the book. Many thanks to our readers and contributors who help us to update this page.
- If you are planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan by van, 4×4, motorbike or bicycle, our book EXPLORE KYRGYZSTAN will be of great help.
- If you wish to rent a vehicle (4×4, van, motorbike or bicycle) in Kyrgyzstan, you will find our recommendations here.
Update 25/04/2022 :
Kyrgyz air and land borders are open to travelers from all countries with a negative PCR test 72 hours prior to arrival or proof of full vaccination (two doses mandatory). Please note that some airlines require a PCR test even if you have been vaccinated. It is better to have both.
The land borders with Tajikistan and China are still closed.
Map of Kyrgyzstan’s restricted areas and border crossings.
Below, you will find a map of the restricted areas and main border crossings in Kyrgyzstan. This map is taken from the book EXPLORE KYRGYZSTAN. You can buy a printed version here. The restricted areas have not changed for many years, but may change at any time. They seem to be doomed to disappear.
Kyrgyzstan border crossings
Entering Kyrgyzstan by land
Unlike in some Central Asian countries, you do not need to pay an import tax or have a customs clearance document to bring a foreign vehicle into Kyrgyzstan. However, since 2015, you have to pay an eco-tax. In 2020 this eco-tax was 500 soms for a motorbike, 1,000 soms for a car, and 2,500 soms for a truck. If you arrive via Kazakhstan, you will not need to pay this ecotax. You will have to pay it if you arrive via Uzbekistan, Tajikistan or China.
Be careful, do not venture into border areas unless you have a border permit or are actually crossing at the border crossing.
Main border crossings open to foreigners in Kyrgyzstan
| Border | Border post | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| China | Irkeshtam | The busiest and easiest border crossing. Be aware that it is better to arrive early in the morning, as the office is closed from 11am to 2pm on the Kyrgyz side and from 1p.m. to 4p.m. on the Chinese side (Kyrgyz time) for lunch. |
| Torugart | To cross the no-man's land between the two border posts you have to pay for an expensive, certified Chinese guide. The pass is often closed in winter because of snowfall. | |
| Tajikistan | Kyzyl Art | You will need a GBAO permit to use the Pamir road. Beware of very corrupt customs officers. Border post is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. |
| Kulundu | Be aware that 12 km further west there is another border crossing which is forbidden to foreigners. | |
| Isfara | No specific difficulties. | |
| Uzbekistan | Izboskan | No specific difficulties. |
| Dostyk | No specific difficulties. | |
| Kazakhstan | Kordaï | No specific difficulties. |
| Ak-Tilek | No specific difficulties. | |
| Sypatay Batir | No specific difficulties. | |
| Aisha Bibi | No specific difficulties. | |
| Karkyra | The post is only open in the summer (May to October). There is no currency exchange. |
Vehicle insurance in Kyrgyzstan
Since 2018, it has been compulsory to insure your vehicle in Kyrgyzstan. Nevertheless, there are relatively few people who have insurance and it is rare to come across a customs officer who asks to see it at a border crossing. You can take out a local insurance in Bishkek or Och. There was no insurance available at the border in 2019. It is important to note that if you have an accident with a Kyrgyz driver, they are often not insured themselves. Rental vehicles always have insurance included.
Kyrgyzstan border permits
What is the border permit?
Some border areas are subject to strict regulations regarding the circulation of persons, especially foreigners. If you wish to visit these areas, you must apply for a permit in advance.
There are five restricted areas, which are shown on the map above.
- Chuy region: Chong-Kemin Valley
- Issyk-Kul region: Karkyra, Sary-Jaz, Engilchek, Khan-Tengri national park, Sarychat-Ertash reserve, Ak-Shyrak, and Karasay checkpoint
- Naryn region: Ak-Say Valley, Lake Kol-Suu, Kok-Kiya canyon, Lake Chatyr-Kul and Torugart checkpoint
- Osh region: Trans-Alay chain (Lenin Peak)
- Batken region: Leïlek and Batken districts
How much does the permit cost?
It is theoretically possible to apply for a permit yourself at the Department of Registration in Bishkek, which costs 200 soms. However, if you do not speak and write Russian, it is difficult to do it yourself without being accompanied. You can therefore apply for a permit at any travel agency for a small (or large) fee.
- 1,800 soms for 1 zone
- 3,000 soms for 2 zones
- 4,000 soms for 4-5 zones
Order your permit online !
We have set up a digital system to make the process easier. Indeed, 7 tracks in our guide are located in these border areas and we want our readers to be able to go there without any hassle and pay the best price for their border permit!
- Validity: 1 month (2 months in option)
- Delivery time: 15 days (urgent 5 days in option)
- Delivery place : Bishkek (other places in option)
- Price: 30€ / person.
- Include 4 zones : Issyk-Kul, Chong-Kemin, Naryn and Osh.
How long is the permit valid for?
Permits are valid for one month. It is possible to extend the validity of the permit by up to 2 months (see with the agency).
It is recommended to apply for a permit at least one week in advance for a “one zone” permit and one month in advance for a “three-zone” permit or more.
It is also possible to obtain a “one zone” permit within 48 hours for an additional fee.
Keep the original version and make several copies of your permit
You can collect your permit in several cities: Bishkek, Osh, Karakol, or Naryn. Once you have obtained your permit, keep the original version and make several copies, as you will have to leave one at each military checkpoint. Your passport will also be required for verification. Check that there are no errors in the passport number, dates, and your name on the permit. A simple mistake and you will be stuck at the checkpoint.
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All information on border crossings and permit areas. How to get a permit? How much does it cost? How long does it take? We answer all your questions.
If you have any questions, please feel free to join our facebook discussion group dedicated to exploring Kyrgyzstan. You will also be able to share your experience of the country and/or discover the photos of other travellers.
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