Official advice for New Zealanders living and travelling overseas

  • Reviewed: 22 March 2024, 14:31 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 all non-essential travel to areas bordering Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan due to security concerns, and the presence of landmines (level 3 of 4).

Avoid all non-essential travel to the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast due to the uncertain security situation (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Tajikistan due to the threat from terrorism (level 2 of 4).

View Larger Map Close/Open map

Tajikistan

Terrorism
Terrorist attacks have occurred in Tajikistan, including those targeting foreigners. Terrorists may target tourist locations and other public areas. On 29 July 2018, 4 tourists were killed in a deliberate attack while cycling in the south of the country in Danghara. New Zealanders are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places.

Border Areas
There have been armed clashes between Tajik security forces and suspected criminal groups in border areas, and both marked and unmarked minefields are present. We advise against venturing off the main roads.

Use caution if travelling east of Dushanbe as armed groups have established checkpoints targeting foreigners. The border with Afghanistan remains unstable, as this area is used as a transit point for drugs and other forms of illegal trafficking. Border crossings are often closed at short notice.

Gorno-Badakhshan
Travel to this area requires a special permit. There were sporadic outbreaks of violence in recent years and there is a heightened security presence. The situation is currently stable however tensions still remain in the regional capital of Khorog, and further violent incidents are possible. The area may be closed to visitors at short notice.

Crime
While the security situation is generally stable, and Dushanbe is relatively secure, there have been occasional muggings and petty crime occurs. Those perceived to have money, including foreigners, may be targeted. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

There have been reported instances of sexual assault, including suspected drink spiking incidents targeting foreigners. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances. Walking alone or travelling after dark is not recommended, especially for women.

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.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Tajikistan should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. There are shortages of even the most basic medical supplies in Tajikistan.

New Zealanders in Tajikistan 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 Tajikistan

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: