May 4, 2004

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Tajikistan, an independent country in Central Asia, has been undergoing profound political and economic changes since the break-up of the Soviet Union. Tourist facilities are undeveloped, and many goods and services taken for granted in other countries are unavailable. The capital is Dushanbe. The civil war that began in 1992 ended when comprehensive peace accords were signed in June 1997, though some armed clashes involving renegade forces took place subsequently.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: A passport and visa are required to enter Tajikistan. Travelers must produce the visa to register at hotels. Failure to produce a valid visa may force a traveler to leave the country immediately. Visas issued by Russian embassies and consulates are no longer valid for travel to Tajikistan. Tajik visas can be obtained at Tajik embassies or consulates abroad. Tajik visas can be obtained at the Dushanbe airport upon arrival only through prior arrangement with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan. Visitors to Tajikistan require an official invitation from a sponsoring organization or individual. Furthermore, entry into Tajikistan at points along the Gorno-Badakhshan border requires special authorization in advance, in addition to a valid Tajik visa.

Tajik authorities advise that requests for visas need to be submitted by sponsoring organizations or individuals to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or OVIR (Department of Visas and Registration) at least three weeks in advance of the planned travel. Travelers who would like their visas extended need to apply for extension in advance through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (official travelers) or OVIR (tourist or commercial travelers). Travelers staying in Tajikistan three days or longer must obtain registration stamps at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or OVIR, depending on whether the purpose of the visit to Tajikistan is for official or personal travel. For further information on entry requirements, please contact the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in the United States, 1005 New Hampshire Avenue, Washington, D.C., 20037; telephone: (202) 223-6090, fax: (202) 223-6091, e-mail: tajikistan@verizon.net, web site: http://www.tjus.org.

Note: To ensure admission to another country when leaving Tajikistan, travelers should obtain the appropriate double entry Russian, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, or Uzbek visas before departure from Tajikistan.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

DUAL NATIONALITY: The Republic of Tajikistan does not recognize dual citizenship with most countries, including the United States (with the exception of the few cases when the dual citizenship is regulated by a special interstate agreement on dual citizenship signed between Tajikistan and another state). Dual nationals who attempt to leave Tajikistan on U.S. passports without valid Tajik visas in them are likely to have problems with immigration authorities upon departing Tajikistan.

In addition to being subject to all laws of the Republic of Tajikistan affecting U.S. citizens, individuals who also possess the nationality of the Republic of Tajikistan may be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on citizens of that country. For additional information, see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: Tajikistan suffered from severe security problems after gaining independence. Instability in Afghanistan has adversely affected the security situation in Central Asian countries sharing its border, including Tajikistan. Sporadic political violence does occur in Tajikistan, although these types of incidents have decreased in the last two years. Though such incidents have not specifically targeted Americans, innocent bystanders have been injured or killed during these attacks. Organized crime continues to be a serious problem in the capital city of Dushanbe and its environs.

Supporters of extremist groups such as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), Al-Qaeda, and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement remain active in Central Asia. These groups have expressed anti-U.S. sentiments and may attempt to target U.S. Government or private interests in the region. Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets. Because of increased security at official U.S. facilities, terrorists are seeking softer civilian targets such as residential areas, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, hotels, schools, outdoor recreation events, resorts, beaches, and planes. Criminal and terrorist groups in Tajikistan do not distinguish between civilian and official targets, and for this reason, U.S. travelers should avoid demonstrations, places where military personnel congregate, and crowds. Americans should be aware that the danger increases greatly after dark.

Outside of Dushanbe, the situation has generally remained calm in the northern province of Sughd (formerly Leninabad ) and in Gorno-Badakhshan in the east.However, the security situation in former opposition-held areas such as the Karategin Valley is less stable. Americans should also be wary of traveling on the road east of Dushanbe. Groups of armed individuals have established independent checkpoints on the road, and have targeted foreigners in the past. In the past, renegade groups in these areas have targeted foreigners for violence. U.S. citizens should check with the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe for current information before traveling outside the capital city.

Security personnel may at times place foreign visitors under surveillance. Hotel rooms, telephones, and fax machines may be monitored, and personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched. Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with the authorities.

From time to time, the U.S. Embassy may suspend or otherwise restrict the travel of U.S. Embassy personnel to Tajikistan and within Tajikistan. The Department of State relocated U.S. Embassy operations from Dushanbe, Tajikistan to Almaty, Kazakhstan in 1998 due to instability in Tajikistan, threats against Americans and American interests worldwide, and the limited ability to secure the safety of U.S. Embassy personnel in Dushanbe. For the time being, American diplomatic personnel officially reside in Almaty, Kazakhstan, but spend most of their time in Tajikistan.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department' s Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where current Worldwide Caution Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements can be found. Travelers to Tajikistan should check especially the Consular Information Sheets and Public Announcements for this and other nearby countries, including Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan on a regular basis. The U.S. Embassy in each of these countries can provide up-to-date information about local crime and safety issues. Information about how to contact each Embassy directly is available via the Internet on the Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov or by calling the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe.

Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

CRIME: Tajikistan is a country with a struggling economy and widespread unemployment. This has resulted in considerable street crime, in addition to the organized crime mentioned in the previous section on "Safety and Security." People perceived to have money, including foreigners, are victims of pickpocketings, muggings, and armed robberies in their homes. Travelers are advised to use caution when traveling alone or on foot after dark. In addition, international train connections are dangerous because of criminals reportedly operating on board.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

MEDICAL FACILITIES: The quality of Tajikistan' s medical infrastructure is significantly below Western standards, with severe shortages of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics. Many trained medical personnel left the country during and following the civil war. Elderly travelers and those with pre-existing health problems may be at particular risk due to inadequate medical facilities.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges U.S. citizens to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and if it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that doctors and hospitals in Tajikistan require payment in cash before providing service and that a medical evacuation to the United States may cost well in excess of $50,000. Due to long distances and poor infrastructure, medical evacuations from Tajikistan may take as long as 24 hours. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page.

OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION: Significant disease outbreaks are possible due to population shifts and a decline in some immunization coverage among the general population. There have been outbreaks of typhoid in the Dushanbe area and in the south, and the risk of contracting malaria, cholera, and water-borne illnesses is high. Throughout Central Asia, rates of infection of various forms of hepatitis and tuberculosis (including drug-resistant strains) are on the rise. It is advised to only drink bottled water while in Tajikistan. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization' s website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

The government of Tajikistan requires visitors who remain in country for more than 90 days to present a medical certificate showing that they are HIV-free, or to submit to an HIV test in Tajikistan. This testing requirement is not currently being implemented, but enforcement could begin at any time. Because of the lack of medical supplies, submitting to an HIV test in Tajikistan could pose a health risk. HIV is a growing health threat in Tajikistan.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Tajikistan is provided for general reference only, and it may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Travel to, from, and within Tajikistan is difficult and unreliable. Neighboring countries may unilaterally close borders. Road travel outside of Dushanbe can be made difficult by checkpoints where police or soldiers are armed. They have been known to shoot if vehicles do not stop upon request. There are also checkpoints on the road east of Dushanbe, operated by independent armed groups. These independent groups have targeted foreigners in the past. For this reason, road travel to the east is strongly discouraged. Vehicles with Tajik license plates have frequently been refused permission to enter Uzbekistan. A change of vehicles at the Uzbek border may be required. Road travel should be undertaken only in daylight hours and on routes known to the traveler or a reliable escort.

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html. For specific information concerning Tajikistan driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in the United States, 1005 New Hampshire Avenue, Washington, D.C., 20037; telephone: (202) 223-6090, fax: (202) 223-6091, e-mail: tajikistan@verizon.net, web site: http://www.tjus.org.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: Flights in Tajikistan may be canceled or substantially delayed and commercial charter flights are frequently overloaded with merchandise. As there is no direct commercial air service by local carriers at present, or economic authority to operate such service, between the U.S. and Tajikistan, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Tajikistan's Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international aviation safety standards. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet web site at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at (618) 229-4801.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: Tajik customs authorities may subject all items that are imported into or exported from Tajikistan to a high level of scrutiny. The Government of Tajikistan may enforce strict customs regulations against those who import and export goods. There are also currency restrictions. Travelers must fill out a Customs Declaration Form upon arrival and retain the form until departure to demonstrate that they are not leaving Tajikistan with more money than they brought into the country. Please contact the U.S.-Tajikistan Chamber of Commerce, 1250 24th St., N.W., Suite 350, Washington, D.C. 20037, telephone (202) 776-7770 or the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in the United States, 1005 New Hampshire Avenue, Washington, D.C., 20037; telephone (202) 223-6090, fax: (202) 223-6091, e-mail: tajikistan@verizon.net, web site: http://www.tjus.org for specific information about customs requirements. In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found at http://www.ustr.gov/reports/2003/special301.htm.

CRIMINAL PENALITIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons who violate Tajikistan's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs in Tajikistan are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.Under the PROTECT Act of April 2003, it is a crime, prosecutable in the U.S., for U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens to exploit children sexually via pornography, the Internet or other means or to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a person under the age of 18 in a foreign country, regardless of whether there was intent.

CONSULAR ACCESS: Travelers to Tajikistan are subject to frequent document inspections. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to carry copies of their U.S. passports and Tajik visas at all times, so that, if questioned by local officials, proof of identity and U.S. citizenship are readily available. In accordance with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and certain bilateral agreements, local authorities must grant a U.S. Consular officer access to any U.S. citizen who is arrested. U.S. citizens who are arrested or detained should ask to contact the U.S. Embassy immediately.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Tajikistan is a cash-only economy. International banking services are limited, but recently ATM machines have been installed in several locations. Cash is dispensed in both U.S. and local currency. Few establishments in the country accept credit cards and none accept traveler's checks. Traveling with large amounts of cash can be dangerous. Tajikistan's national currency is the Somoni, which is convertible. Please contact the U.S.-Tajikistan Chamber of Commerce, 1250 24th St., N.W. Suite 350, Washington D.C. 20037, telephone (202) 776-7770, for information on currency restrictions.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: Tajikistan is an earthquake-prone country. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov/.

CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.

REGISTRATION/EMBASSY LOCATIONS: U.S. citizens are encouraged to register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe as soon as they arrive in Tajikistan. The U.S. Embassy can provide updated information on travel and security within Tajikistan and is located at 10 Pavlova Street, Dushanbe, telephone (24-hour operator) 011 (992)(372) 21-03-48/50/52 or 24-15-60, fax 011 (992)(372) 21-03-62, web site: http://usembassy.state.gov/dushanbe. In Dushanbe, Embassy staff work out of an interim Embassy facility. Some consular services for Tajikistan are handled in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The U.S. Embassy in Almaty is located at 97 Zholdasbekova St., Samal-2, Almaty 480099, tel. 7-3272-50-48-02, fax: 7-3272-50-48-84, web site: http://www.usembassy-kazakhstan.freenet.kz. U.S. citizens are reminded that resources limit the availability of some consular services in Dushanbe, including those of an emergency nature such as emergency passport issuances.

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This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 1, 2003, to add or update sections on Entry Requirements, Dual Nationality, Safety and Security, Crime, Other Health Information, Traffic Safety and Road Conditions, Aviation Safety Oversight, Customs Regulations, Criminal Penalties, Consular Access, Special Circumstances, Children' s Issues, and Registration/Embassy Locations.

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