Kyrgyzstan

When traveling to Kyrgyzstan, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Kyrgyzstan, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Participate in conferences and meetings
• » Participate in negotiations
• » Participate in sporting events

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Kyrgyzstan?

Nationals of the European Union, the United States, and many other countries are eligible for a visa waiver and are not required to obtain a visa to enter and conduct business activities in Kyrgyzstan.

If your nationality is not eligible for a visa waiver, you may be eligible to obtain a “B” Business Visa from a Kyrgyzstan Embassy or Consulate prior to travel.

What types of activities require work authorization?

In some cases, business visitors may be permitted to conduct professional activities, so long as they do not have an employment agreement with an entity in Kyrgyzstan. However, restrictions on remuneration and registrations may apply. Please consult with your immigration counsel for an individual assessment before traveling to determine eligibility for a short-term work authorization.

If I am traveling to Kyrgyzstan for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

Requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Kyrgyzstan. Foreign nationals who intend to engage in remunerated activities in Kyrgyzstan are required to obtain work authorization in the form of a Work Permit.

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

Foreign nationals who are permanent residents, students undergoing practical training, and those in certain professions may be eligible for a work authorization exemption in Kyrgyzstan and are not required to obtain a Work Permit. However, certain registrations or conditions may apply. Please consult with your immigration counsel for an individual assessment before traveling to determine eligibility for a long-term work authorization exemption.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.