Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Kyrgyzstan. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

Business visitors traveling to Kyrgyzstan may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attend business meetings
• Conduct market research
• Tour a company facility
• Attend a trade show or convention

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

EU, US, Canadian, and other select nationals do not require a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan. Nationals of most other countries require a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan to conduct business activities and must obtain either a B-1 or B-2 Business Visa prior to travel from an Kyrgyz Consulate or Embassy.

Working in Kyrgyzstan

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

In Kyrgyzstan, the requirement for a work visa is generally determined by the duration and the nature of the work assignment. Most unremunerated activities, including hands-on technical work, can be conducted on a business visa under Kyrgyz laws for a limited time.

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

Whether you can obtain a work permit depends on whether your employer has an entity in Kyrgyzstan and the duration of your stay. The Work Permit  (direct-hire work permit) is the most common work authorization for Kyrgyzstan.

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work permit requirements?

Nationals of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation do not require a work authorization for Kyrgyzstan. Registrations and other formalities may be required before these nationals can work or reside in Kyrgyzstan.

What else should I know?

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

Copyright © 2016 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.