Traveling to Afghanistan: entry and safety rules, useful tips and important laws
Afghanistan evokes mixed emotions due to the constant war and the difficult situation in the country. However, this does not stop travelers from traveling to the country, which is rich in historical attractions. Here is a closer look at the entry security rules for tourists, useful tips and important laws
The situation in Afghanistan remains quite unstable: terrorist attacks, armed conflict, the risk of kidnapping and a high level of crime. Most of the world's diplomatic institutions advise their citizens to avoid traveling to the country. If it is impossible to cancel the trip, then the foreigner should familiarize himself with the entry rules in detail and take the necessary measures for a safe trip.
The level of security in Afghanistan
It is extremely dangerous to travel around the country, including being in the country's capital, Kabul. There are checkpoints on all roads and in cities. Some borders are closed or may be closed without warning. Terrorist acts often occur in the country, including at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul.
Extremist organizations attack various targets in Afghanistan, these can be government buildings, schools, cultural institutions, airports and other transport hubs, public places (tourist attractions, restaurants, cafes, shopping centers, markets, hotels, medical facilities and other places, visited by foreigners). In addition to targeted attacks, terrorist groups periodically bombard the center of Kabul with unguided rockets. It is impossible to predict the time of shelling.
A nationwide curfew is in effect from 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Abduction of foreigners for ransom is a fairly common phenomenon.
Millions of landmines are also a serious threat, especially in rural areas.
Importantly! A foreigner should take into account that:
- in Afghanistan there are major problems with light and communication (even in large cities);
- food and water shortages are quite common;
- foreigners should avoid traveling at night;
- there is no safe zone with adequate police protection.
Rules of entry into Afghanistan
Visas can be issued by citizens of all countries of the world who intend to enter Afghanistan for the purpose of tourism or visit their friends or relatives.
The tourist visa is valid for 3 months, with a single entry. It is allowed to stay in Afghanistan for 30 days. Visas to Afghanistan are issued on the basis of a valid passport.
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The procedure for obtaining a visa to Afghanistan
Prepare the necessary documents:
- A completed and signed visa application form.
- One standard passport size photograph.
- Valid Passport Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Afghanistan.
- Confirmation of residential address.
- An itinerary from a registered travel agency in Afghanistan, including information about flights, accommodation addresses and the places you will visit.
- Invitation letter.
- A personal statement explaining the purpose of the visit and confirming the risks associated with traveling to Afghanistan.
- Make an appointment at the consular department of the Embassy of Afghanistan in your country of residence.
Documents for a visa can be submitted only by the applicant in person. Application processing time - from 7 days.
Importantly! The validity period of the visa starts from the date of issuance of the visa. All visa application fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application.
There are no quarantine restrictions due to the COVID-19 epidemic in Afghanistan.
Important laws of Afghanistan
Afghanistan is a Muslim country. When traveling to a country, be careful not to offend the local culture or religion. Female tourists may face certain challenges related to safety and religious and cultural beliefs in the country, especially if they are traveling alone.
It is forbidden to import drugs, alcohol and pork products into Afghanistan. Photography of government buildings, military facilities and palaces is also prohibited.
Emergency assistance
Embassies or consulates of most countries of the world do not work in Afghanistan. Therefore, before traveling, we advise you to find the contacts of the diplomatic office of the country of origin in the countries neighboring Afghanistan.
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