Kabul Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport and visa. If traveling with one parent or without parents, carry notarized consent letters from absent parent(s) and birth certificates. Children are subject to the same entry requirements as adults. Consider carefully whether travel to Afghanistan is appropriate for children given security risks. Ensure children have comprehensive medical insurance and evacuation coverage. Women traveling with children may face additional scrutiny and restrictions.

Importing pets into Afghanistan is possible but complicated. Requirements include: valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days before travel but not more than 12 months prior), health certificate from a licensed veterinarian issued within 10 days of travel, import permit from Afghan authorities (difficult to obtain), and compliance with airline regulations for pet transport. Veterinary services in Afghanistan are extremely limited. Exporting pets from Afghanistan may be equally challenging. Consider whether bringing a pet is advisable given the security situation and limited veterinary care.

Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days. For longer stays, apply for appropriate visa type (business, work, or residence) before arrival. Visa extensions within Afghanistan are possible but unreliable and require application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or immigration authorities. Process is bureaucratic and unpredictable. If working in Afghanistan, you need a work visa sponsored by an Afghan organization and may require additional permits. Long-term residents may need to register with local authorities. Overstaying a visa can result in fines, detention, or deportation. For extended stays, ensure you have ongoing security arrangements and maintain contact with your embassy or consulate (if operating).

Women face significant restrictions and risks when traveling to Afghanistan under current Taliban rule. Women must dress modestly, covering their entire body and wearing a headscarf (hijab) at minimum; full face covering (burqa or niqab) may be required in some situations. Women may not be permitted to travel without a male guardian (mahram - close male relative) for longer distances or in certain contexts. Access to public spaces, education, and employment is severely restricted for women. Female travelers should be prepared for gender segregation in many settings. Professional women, including journalists and aid workers, face particular challenges and restrictions. Thoroughly research current restrictions, consult with organizations operating in Afghanistan, and assess whether travel is safe and feasible. Consider security risks including harassment and violence. Have comprehensive security and emergency plans specific to challenges facing women.

Journalists require special accreditation and permission to work in Afghanistan. Apply for a journalist visa through an Afghan embassy, providing letter from your media organization, assignment details, and proposed travel itinerary. Upon arrival, register with the Government Media and Information Center (GMIC) or relevant Taliban ministry. Regulations and restrictions on media have increased significantly since 2021. Journalists face risks including detention, harassment, and violence. Photography and filming restrictions are extensive. Many topics are sensitive or prohibited. International media organizations have significantly reduced presence. Ensure comprehensive security arrangements, hostile environment training, and emergency evacuation plans. Carry accreditation documents at all times.

Humanitarian and development workers need appropriate visas sponsored by their organization. Organizations must be registered with Afghan authorities. Staff may need work permits and NGO accreditation. Security clearances and movement permissions may be required, especially for travel outside Kabul. Restrictions on international NGOs have increased since 2021, particularly affecting women staff. Coordinate closely with your organization's security team and follow all protocols. Many international organizations have reduced operations or withdrawn. Ensure comprehensive security training, medical evacuation coverage, and crisis management plans. Maintain communication with your organization and embassy/consulate.

Travelers of Afghan origin or with dual Afghan nationality may face additional scrutiny and different treatment. Afghanistan does not recognize dual nationality for its citizens. Afghan nationals, even with foreign passports, may be treated as Afghan citizens and subject to Afghan law without access to consular protection. Men of military age may face conscription or travel restrictions. Former Afghan citizens may need to clarify their citizenship status. If you have Afghan heritage, consult with both Afghan diplomatic missions and your current country's consulate about potential complications. Carry documentation of your current citizenship. Be aware that leaving Afghanistan may be more difficult if authorities consider you an Afghan national.