Official advice for New Zealanders living and travelling overseas

  • Reviewed: 4 November 2022, 12:28 NZDT
  • Still current at: 29 March 2024

Related news features

COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the Ferghana Valley and areas bordering Uzbekistan and Tajikistan due to the uncertain security situation and the presence of landmines. This includes the regions of Osh, Jalalabad and Batken (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Kyrgyzstan due to violent crime, terrorism and the potential for civil unrest (level 2 of 4).

View Larger Map Close/Open map

Kyrgyzstan

Border Areas
Tensions exist over recognition of the Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan borders. There have been violent clashes along the borders involving shelling and the exchange of gunfire.

Landmines are present along Kyrgyzstan’s borders with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. We recommend that you only use officially recognised border crossings if entering Uzbekistan and Tajikistan by land. Border crossings are often closed at short notice. 

Civil Unrest
Although the situation is currently stable, political and ethnic tensions continue to exist in Kyrgyzstan, especially in the south and south-west of the country, and there is the potential for civil unrest.

Demonstrations occur from time to time, particularly in the capital Bishkek. New Zealanders in Kyrgyzstan should avoid any demonstrations, political rallies and large public gatherings as they have the potential to turn violent.

Terrorism
There is a threat from terrorism in Kyrgyzstan, particularly south and west of Osh.

New Zealanders in Kyrgyzstan are advised to be security-conscious in public places and areas frequented by foreigners, monitor the media for information about potential threats to safety and security, and follow any advice and instructions issued by the local authorities. 

Crime
There is a high incidence of crime, including violent crime, and foreigners can be targeted due to their perceived wealth. Robbery, mugging and pickpocketing have occurred, including near hotels, on public transport and other places frequented by foreigners (bazaars in Bishkek, particularly Osh Bazaar are regularly targeted). It is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable such as mobile devices and jewellery, or carrying large sums of cash.

There have also been reports of travellers being robbed by individuals posing as police officers, particularly at local markets, and also as ‘meet and greet’ drivers at airports. We recommend you arrange airport transport in advance of arrival, avoid travelling alone and at night, and only use official pre-booked taxis. Victims travelling on foot have been followed back to their accommodation from restaurants and bars on occasion. 

Be aware of the risk of drink spiking in Kyrgyzstan. Never accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended. 

General Travel Advice
Local police often ask to see proof of identity. We recommend you carry a photocopy of your passport and visa at all times. Failure to produce this could result in you being detained for questioning.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Kyrgyzstan should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Kyrgyzstan are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips


The New Zealand Embassy Moscow, Russian Federation is accredited to Kyrgyzstan

Street Address 44 Povarskaya Ulitsa , Moscow 121069, Russian Federation Telephone +7 495 956 3579 Alternate Telephone +7 495 956 3580 Fax +7 495 956 3583 Email nzembmoscow@mft.net.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/russia Hours Mon - Fri 0900 - 1230, 1330 - 1730 hrs

See our regional advice for Central Asia

Share this page:

Related News features

Accredited New Zealand Embassy Russian Federation

Street Address
44 Povarskaya Ulitsa , Moscow 121069, Russian Federation

Telephone: +7 495 956 3579

Alternate Telephone: +7 495 956 3580

Fax: +7 495 956 3583

Email: nzembmoscow@mft.net.nz

Website: http://www.mfat.govt.nz/russia

Hours: Mon - Fri 0900 - 1230, 1330 - 1730 hrs

Related advice from other countries

Share this page:

Other pages in this section: