Guide to Residency in Tajikistan

Obtaining a residency visa in Tajikistan is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Tajikistan gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research the types of residency permits available
  • Visit the official website of the Migration Service of the Republic of Tajikistan to understand the different types of residency permits: temporary, permanent, and special purpose.
  • Choose the type of residency that best suits your purpose of stay, whether it's for work, study, family reunification, or other reasons.
• Prepare the necessary documents
  • Passport with at least 6 months validity.
  • Visa application form, which can be obtained from the Tajikistan embassy or consulate in your country or online if available.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Supporting documents such as employment contract, university admission letter, marriage certificate, etc., depending on the residency permit type.
  • Health insurance valid in Tajikistan.
  • Medical certificate from an authorized clinic proving you are free from HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases.
• Apply for a visa
  • Visit the nearest Tajikistan embassy or consulate to submit your visa application along with the required documents.
  • Alternatively, check if you are eligible for an e-Visa by visiting the official Tajikistan e-Visa website: Tajikistan e-Visa.
  • Pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay.
• Enter Tajikistan
  • Once your visa is approved, travel to Tajikistan and ensure you have all your documents with you.
  • Upon arrival, go through the immigration process and declare your intention to apply for residency.
• Register with the local police
  • Within three working days of arrival, register your presence with the local police department or OVIR (Office of Visas and Registration).
  • Provide your passport and visa for registration.
  • Pay the registration fee, if applicable.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the local tax office to apply for an individual taxpayer number (INN).
  • Fill out the application form and submit it along with a copy of your passport and visa.
  • Wait for the processing of your tax number, which may take a few days.
• Apply for a residency permit
  • Go to the Migration Service office with all your documents, including your passport, visa, registration slip from the police, tax number, and any other required documents.
  • Fill out the residency permit application form.
  • Submit the application along with the required documents and pay the application fee.
  • Undergo an interview, if necessary, where you may be asked about your reasons for applying for residency and your plans in Tajikistan.
  • Wait for the decision on your residency permit application, which can take several weeks or months.
• Receive your residency permit
  • If your application is approved, you will be notified to collect your residency permit from the Migration Service office.
  • Check the details on the residency permit to ensure they are correct.
  • Keep your residency permit with you, as you will need to show it when dealing with government offices, banks, and in some cases, when traveling within Tajikistan.
• Renew your residency permit as needed
  • Be aware of the expiration date of your residency permit and apply for renewal well in advance.
  • Follow the same process as the initial application, including document submission and payment of fees.

Please note that the process and requirements for obtaining residency status in Tajikistan can change, so it is important to verify the current procedures with the Tajikistan embassy or consulate before starting your application. Additionally, the availability of English versions of official websites and documents may be limited, so consider seeking assistance from a local lawyer or a consultancy firm specializing in immigration to Tajikistan.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Tajikistan?

"To enter Tajikistan, visitors must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. To apply for residency in Tajikistan, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, a medical certificate, and a fee. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required. The application process may also involve an interview with a representative of the Tajik government," commented one member living in Tajikistan.