Kyrgyzstan Eases Visa Process to Attract Tourists, Investors

Kyrgyzstan has made major changes to its visa policy, eliminating several categories, including business, tourist, and mountain tourism visas, in a bid to enhance its investment climate and promote tourism.

These visas will now be replaced with a streamlined system centered around a new “Sapar visa”, which can be issued within 24 hours of application, The Caspian Post reports, citing The Times of Central Asia.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Sapar visa will be available to foreign citizens traveling to Kyrgyzstan for business, tourism, or private purposes, such as visiting friends or undergoing medical examinations. The visa allows stays of up to 90 days and offers both single-entry and multiple-entry options. The changes will take effect on January 22, 2025, with applications submitted through the government’s Electronic Visa portal.

The e-visa portal, launched five years ago, was developed to simplify the visa application process, particularly for tourists and investors. The system is user-friendly, requiring only an internet connection, a credit or debit card for payment, and scanned copies of necessary documents.

By modernizing its visa policies and making the process faster and more accessible, Kyrgyzstan hopes to attract more foreign investors and tourists, bolstering economic growth. The government’s approach reflects a commitment to removing bureaucratic hurdles and positioning the country as an attractive destination for both business and leisure travel.