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3 ways to enter

Afghanistan visas

Afghanistan visa on arrival

Visa on arrival is available for specified United Nations and Interpol travellers, United Nations employees, and certain foreign investors. It is not described as a general option for tourists.

Ways to get a Afghanistan visa on arrival

  1. Visa on arrival for United Nations or Interpol travel document holders

    Visa on arrival

    Foreign citizens holding a United Nations laissez-passer, a United Nations travel document, or an Interpol Travel Document qualify.

  2. Visa on arrival for United Nations employees

    Visa on arrival

    Foreign employees of the United Nations or its specialised agencies qualify during their period of work.

    Stay
    During the period of work.

  3. Investor visa on arrival

    Visa on arrival

    Certain foreign investors can have their visas on arrival facilitated by the Afghanistan Investment Desk.

Who needs it

Travellers using this route must qualify under one of the specified document, employment or investor arrangements.

Who doesn't

Ordinary passport holders with qualifying Afghan birth or parentage can enter without a visa.

Good to know

  • The broader 2015 proposal also mentioned journalists, athletes, airline staff and transit passengers from countries without an Afghan diplomatic mission. Which parts were adopted is not specified.
  • Do not treat the proposed scheme as confirmation that every listed group can get a visa on arrival.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Afghanistan?

Travellers using this route must qualify under one of the specified document, employment or investor arrangements. Ordinary passport holders with qualifying Afghan birth or parentage can enter without a visa.

What are the ways to get a visa on arrival for Afghanistan?

There are 3 options: Visa on arrival for United Nations or Interpol travel document holders (a visa at the border); Visa on arrival for United Nations employees (a visa at the border); Investor visa on arrival (a visa at the border).

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival for Afghanistan?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Afghanistan visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a visa on arrival for Afghanistan be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Afghanistan visa on arrival rules?

On Afghanistan's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my visa on arrival once I am in Afghanistan?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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