Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Tajikistan Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Latest updates: The Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Tajikistan - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Tajikistan due to crime.
Borders with Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan - Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid non-essential travel to the areas within 30 km of the borders with Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan because of security concerns.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. You must wear a face covering in public spaces.
If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined or detained for endangering public health.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing
- Avoid crowded areas
Borders with Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan
The security situation along the border with Afghanistan remains unstable, as this area is used as a transit point for drugs and other forms of illegal trafficking.
Marked and unmarked minefields are present in areas bordering Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Exercise extreme caution when travelling to these areas.
Some border crossings are not properly marked, especially in the Fergana Valley, where the Tajik border meets eastern Uzbekistan and southern Kyrgyzstan.
Neighbouring countries may close their borders without notice.
Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and mugging, occurs; criminals target foreigners.
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
- Don’t show signs of affluence or carry large sums of money.
- Exercise caution, particularly in tourist areas, commercial and public establishments frequented by foreigners (e.g. markets, hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools and places of worship) and at outdoor recreation events.
Ensure that your passport and visa are in order when travelling to and from Dushanbe International Airport. Officials have claimed travel documents to be invalid in order to extort payments from travellers. Report any case of harassment or intimidation to the Embassy of Canada to Kazakhstan, in Nur-Sultan.
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Travel in groups and in daylight.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism. Even though terrorist groups are known to operate in the country, attacks are infrequent and mostly target Government of Tajikistan installations, including law enforcement and military facilities.
Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- police and military installations and personnel
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings.
Attack on foreigners
On July 29, 2018, foreigners cycling near Dangara in southern Tajikistan were attacked by a group of local men. The vehicle-ramming and subsequent knife attacks resulted in deaths and injuries. Be vigilant if hiking or cycling in the countryside, especially in areas near the border with Afghanistan.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Road safety
Roads outside of large towns are poorly maintained and often inaccessible to vehicles that are not equipped with 4-wheel-drive.
A new tunnel links Dushanbe and Khujand, but this road is particularly dangerous in the winter due to icy conditions.
In the spring, avalanches and landslides may block roads, and travellers may be trapped for long periods waiting for emergency services, which are slow to respond in remote areas. There are no roadside assistance companies. Many roads in the interior of the country are only open during the summer.
Gas stations are rare outside of towns. If you drive to or through remote areas, ensure that you are well equipped: bring supplies that could last you for several days and a satellite phone.
Driving practices differ greatly from those in Canada and local vehicles are poorly maintained.
There are many checkpoints, and security forces may fire at vehicles that don’t stop. Exercise caution when travelling east of Dushanbe, as armed groups have established checkpoints and targeted foreigners.
Rail travel
Rail service is unreliable and underdeveloped.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Air travel is limited. In winter, poor weather conditions commonly cause sudden flight delays and cancellations. Reservations on regional airlines are not always honored, and overcrowding on flights is common. Flights may be cancelled or significantly delayed on short notice.
Trekking
If you intend on trekking:
- never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
- know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
- obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes
- Register your trip with the Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence (CESCD)
- Book your travel through an accredited travel agency, who will register you with the CESCD
Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence - Government of Tajikistan (in Tajik and Russian only)
General safety information
Tourist facilities are very limited. Wireless service is unreliable in less populated areas.
Energy, water and food shortages as well as power outages are common throughout Tajikistan, especially in winter and spring.
Maintain a stock of emergency items at your hotel/residence. If you intend to remain in Tajikistan for extended periods, prepare and review personal emergency plans with your family.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Tajik authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months following the issuance of the visa, and for 60 days beyond the date of entry into Tajikistan.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
You must have a visa to visit Tajikistan.
Tourist visa: Required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required
You may obtain a visa valid for a 45-day visit within 90 days of issuance from the Tajikistan Visa Electronic Application Center.
Tajikistan Visa Electronic Application Center
Restricted areas
You must obtain a permit from Tajik authorities to visit the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast. You may require a permit for other high risk and closed areas.
Health entry requirements
You must be tested for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) if you are planning to reside in Tajikistan for more than three months.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Central Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like hepatitis A and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Central Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Central Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, leishmaniasis, Lyme disease, malaria, and tick-borne encephalitis.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that typically causes fever, bleeding under the skin, and pain. Risk is generally low for most travellers. It is spread to humans though contact with infected animal blood or bodily fluids, or from a tick bite. Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.
Malaria
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed, air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
- Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. See a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in Central Asia, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing facilities
Consult the following links to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test:
Local COVID-19 testing facilities - Government of Tajikistan (in Tajiki only)
Health care is inadequate. Frequent shortages of energy and water can interrupt or impede the provision of medical services. There is also a severe shortage of basic medical supplies.
You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. The Tajik government is stepping up its raids to counter narcotics trafficking.
Although rarely enforced, smoking while walking on the street is illegal and punishable by a fine.
Driving
You must carry an international driving permit.
More about the International Driving Permit
Penalties for drinking and driving are strict.
Identification
Carry a copy of your passport at all times. Individuals are frequently required by the police to produce identification.
LGBTQ2 travellers
The laws of Tajikistan don’t prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted. LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Tajikistan.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Tajikistan.
If local authorities consider you a citizen of Tajikistan, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Culture
Although Tajikistan is a secular country, Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to, particularly in conservative rural areas. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.
Money
The currency is the Tajik Somoni. The economy is primarily cash-based. U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Few international banking services are available, although an increasing number of ATMs can now be found in Dushanbe. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, some restaurants and most banks.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Tajikistan is located in an active seismic zone.
In higher-altitude areas, there is a significant danger of floods, avalanches and landslides, especially in the spring.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
Consular assistance
There is no resident Canadian government office in Tajikistan. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the Embassy of Canada to Kazakhstan, in Nur-Sultan.
Nur-Sultan - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Kazakhstan, in Nur-Sultan, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.