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TRAVEL REPORT
Kyrgyz Republic

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 6 has been updated (malaria).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Kyrgyz Republic

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the Kyrgyz Republic.

Border crossing points between the Kyrgyz Republic, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China were reportedly closed on June 11, 2010. While officials from both the Kyrgyz Republic and Kazakhstan have advised that the border between their countries has reopened, Kazakhstan border crossing points with the Kyrgyz Republic may be closed or restricted without warning.

Canadians should confirm flights to and from Bishkek with their airline prior to departure, as Bishkek International Airport may be closed or flights severely delayed or cancelled.

Areas south and west of Osh, the Fergana Valley region, and areas along the borders of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

The security situation in these areas remains volatile and unpredictable. Border areas near Uzbekistan and Tajikistan are mined.

Heightened tensions throughout the region, together with increased threats globally from terrorism, may put Canadians at greater risk. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times. You should exercise caution, particularly in commercial and public establishments (hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship), at outdoor recreational events, and in tourist areas frequented by foreigners.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to and within the Batken, Jalal-Abad and Osh oblasts. Violent clashes, that left over 356 people dead and more than 2000 injured, were reported in these areas in June 2010. Incidents of looting were reported, roadblocks may be erected and access to regular transportation routes may be impeded. Canadians are advised to monitor media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety. The purpose of this Travel Report is to provide Canadians with up-to-date information to enable them to make well-informed decisions.

Crime

There is a high rate of violent crime and foreigners have been targeted. Organized gangs are common. Robbery, mugging, and pickpocketing occur frequently near major hotels, bars, parks, and on public transportation. Remain vigilant and ensure personal belongings and documents are secure. Do not show signs of affluence and avoid carrying large sums of money.

Some robberies have been committed by men in police uniforms. If approached, ask to see police credentials. Men posing as "meet and greet" airport facilitators lure unsuspecting foreigners into cars and demand money. Canadians should make prior arrangements with their contacts and ask for identification upon arrival. Do not leave with anyone who does not show prearranged identification.

At night, it is advisable to call a reputable taxi service in advance before leaving popular restaurants and places of recreation, as foreigners have been specifically targeted leaving such venues.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur in the Kyrgyz Republic. Canadians are advised to avoid political gatherings and demonstrations, and to stay away from areas where they may take place, as they could turn violent without warning. Canadians should also monitor news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

General Safety Information

As the police can arrest visitors who do not carry identification, keep a legally certified copy of your visa and registration with you at all times, and your passport and visa in safekeeping facilities. It is also advisable to leave a photocopy of your travel documents with a relative or a friend at home.

Do not walk or travel alone, especially at night.

Tourist facilities are not highly developed.

For emergency assistance, dial 101 for fire and 102 for police.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Kyrgyz authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic for up-to-date information.

A visa and a valid Canadian passport are required for Canadians intending to visit the Kyrgyz Republic. Canadians must be in possession of a passport valid for at least three months beyond the validity of their visa. Visitors who plan to stay in the Kyrgyz Republic for more than one month are required to present a letter of invitation. Canadians must register their passports with the Office of Visas and Registration within three business days after their arrival into the Kyrgyz Republic.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required
Transit Visa: Required

Canadians who plan to travel to both the Kyrgyz Republic and Kazakhstan, with Almaty as their arrival and departure point, need a multiple-entry Kazakhstan visa in addition to a Kyrgyz visa.

Routine and strict border control on the road between Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, has been implemented, making travel in this region difficult. Strict adherence to visa regulations is essential.

Special permission must be obtained from Chinese authorities prior to travelling to China from the Kyrgyz Republic.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Kyrgyz Republic - BISHKEK, Consulate of Canada
Address: 189 Moskovskaya Avenue, Bishkek, 720010, Kyrgyz Republic
Tel.: 996 (312) 65-01-01 or 65-05-06
Fax: 996 (312) 65-01-01
E-Mail: canada_honcon@akipress.org

The Embassy of Canada in Almaty, Kazakhstan, has consular responsibility for the Kyrgyz Republic. The address is as follows:

Kazakhstan - ALMATY, Embassy of Canada
Address: 34 Karasai batyr Street, Almaty 050010, Kazakhstan
Tel.: 7-727-250-1151/52/53
Fax: 7-727-258-2493
E-Mail: almat@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.kazakhstan.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease. It is caused by a parasite which is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. There is no vaccine available against malaria. Travellers can reduce their risk by following the Public Health Agency of Canada’s recommendations.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anaesthetics, and antibiotics.
 
Canadians should make sure they carry a sufficient amount of their prescripton medications in their original containers.

Consumption of untreated water and water-based foods greatly increases chances of illness. Do not drink tap water. Travellers should drink only bottled water, peel all fruits and vegetables, and avoid undercooked meat, dairy products, and most food sold in the streets.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Religion

Although the Kyrgyz Republic is a secular country, Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to, particularly in rural areas. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Dual Nationality

Dual nationality is not recognized. This may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. Canadians should travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadian citizens to foreign authorities at all times. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual nationality.

Illegal and/or Restricted Activities

Penalties for drinking and driving are strict.

Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs may result in jail sentences and heavy fines.

Homosexual activity is legal but is not widely accepted by Kyrgyz society.

Photography of military installations or government buildings may result in a penalty. Travellers should seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Road Travel

Drive defensively, as traffic accidents are a common cause of death and injury. Roads are poorly maintained and inadequately lit, and traffic regulations are often ignored. Roads to Tashkent are hazardous in winter. The road to Almaty has been improved dramatically, increasing safety and reducing travel time. It is advisable to buy gas in the cities of Bishkek and Osh because there are few gas stations outside those cities.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

Avoid public transportation as it is unsafe and unreliable.

Use only officially marked taxis, pre-negotiate fares, and do not share a ride with strangers.

Air Travel

Air travel is limited. Unannounced delays and flight cancellations are common in winter due to poor weather conditions. Reservations on regional airlines are not always respected.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The economy is primarily cash-based. The currency is the Kyrgyzstani som (KGS). Canadian currency and traveller’s cheques are not widely accepted. Visitors must declare foreign currency upon entry and cannot leave with more than was brought in. Convert Kyrgyzstani soms into euros or U.S. dollars before leaving the country, as you will not be able to do so after departure. While there are few automated banking machines (ABMs), they are becoming more common and easily accessible. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, some restaurants, and most banks. Due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity, credit cards should be used with caution. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The Kyrgyz Republic is located in an active seismic zone. Avalanches and landslides are common in mountainous areas, especially in the spring. They can be hazardous and block road access.

Canadian citizens staying in the Kyrgyz Republic for extended periods are advised to maintain a stock of emergency items at their residence and to prepare and review personal emergency plans with their family.

All Canadians in the country should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and the Consulate of Canada in Bishkek, in the event of an emergency.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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