Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Expanded E-Visa Program
Afghanistan has streamlined its e-visa system for tourists, journalists, and business travelers, allowing online applications with faster processing times of 3-7 days. The fee is approximately $50 USD, and it's valid for 30 days with possible extensions. Always check the official Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the latest updates before applying.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Afghanistan, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Biometric passports are preferred, and any damage to the passport could lead to denial at the border.
It's advisable to carry multiple photocopies of your passport and visa, as checkpoints may require them, and keep digital copies on your phone for easy access.
Visa Requirements
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Afghanistan, with no visa-free entry available except for citizens of a few neighboring countries like Pakistan under specific agreements. Tourist visas are available but limited due to security concerns; apply well in advance through Afghan embassies or the e-visa portal.
Overstaying a visa can result in fines up to $100 per day or detention, so monitor your dates closely and plan for extensions if needed through local immigration offices in Kabul.
E-Visa Applications
Apply for an e-visa online via the official Afghan visa portal, submitting a scanned passport, recent photo, travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation or invitation letter. The process costs around $50 and typically takes 3-7 business days for approval, which is emailed as a PDF.
Supporting documents like bank statements showing sufficient funds (at least $50 per day) and travel insurance covering evacuation are often required to strengthen your application.
Border Crossings & Entry Points
Main entry points include Kabul International Airport, and land borders like Torkham from Pakistan or Islam Qala from Iran, where visas are checked rigorously. Expect security screenings and possible interviews at airports; land crossings can take several hours due to vehicle inspections.
Visa on arrival is available for some nationalities at Kabul airport but not guaranteed—pre-approval is strongly recommended to avoid complications, especially with ongoing regional instability.
Health & Vaccination Requirements
Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and polio are recommended, with yellow fever required if coming from endemic areas; malaria prophylaxis may be needed in southern regions. A COVID-19 vaccination certificate might still be checked, though requirements have eased in 2026.
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is mandatory, as healthcare facilities are limited outside major cities—policies should cover at least $100,000 in emergency expenses.
Visa Extensions & Travel Advisories
Extensions for tourist visas can be applied for at the Ministry of Interior in Kabul, typically granting an additional 30 days for a fee of about $25, requiring proof of onward travel and sufficient funds. Processing takes 5-10 days, so apply early.
Due to security risks, many governments issue "do not travel" advisories for Afghanistan—consult your foreign affairs department, register with your embassy, and consider hiring local guides or security for safer itineraries.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Afghanistan uses the Afghan Afghani (AFN). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Kabul by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for flights via Dubai or Istanbul hubs.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at chaikhanas or street vendors for affordable meals under AFN 300, skipping upscale spots to save up to 60% on food costs in cities like Herat or Mazar-i-Sharif.
Local bazaars offer fresh fruits, nuts, and bread at bargain prices, providing authentic flavors while keeping your budget intact for longer stays.
Public Transport Options
Opt for shared minibuses or taxis for inter-city travel at AFN 500-1,000 per leg, far cheaper than private hires and a cultural experience in itself.
Domestic flights via Ariana Afghan Airlines can be economical if booked early, with passes for multiple routes saving 20-30% on frequent travel.
Free or Low-Cost Attractions
Explore ancient sites like the Minaret of Jam or Bamiyan Valley ruins, which are free or nominal entry (AFN 100), offering profound historical insights without high fees.
Village walks, mountain viewpoints, and local festivals provide enriching experiences at no cost, immersing you in Afghan hospitality and landscapes.
Cash Management
Cash is king—carry USD or AFN in small bills for markets and remote areas, as cards are rarely accepted outside Kabul hotels.
Exchange at authorized money changers in bazaars for better rates than banks, and use ATMs sparingly in secure zones to avoid fees.
Group Tours & Discounts
Join organized tours through reputable operators for bundled costs, often including transport and guides at AFN 2,000/day, reducing individual expenses by 40%.
Negotiate rates for longer stays in guesthouses or with local guides, and look for seasonal discounts during quieter months like winter.
Smart Packing for Afghanistan
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack modest, loose-fitting clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially for women who may need headscarves or abayas in conservative areas; men should avoid shorts. Layer for variable altitudes, including long-sleeve shirts and pants for sun protection in deserts.
Include quick-dry fabrics for dusty conditions and traditional attire if participating in cultural events, ensuring respect for local customs while staying comfortable during hikes or bazaar visits.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type C/F, 220V), solar charger or power bank due to unreliable electricity, and a rugged phone case for off-grid areas. Download offline maps like Maps.me and translation apps for Pashto/Dari.
A satellite phone or communication device is advisable for remote regions with poor signal, and carry extra batteries for cameras to capture stunning landscapes without interruption.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and altitude sickness meds for Hindu Kush areas; include anti-diarrheal and rehydration salts given water quality issues.
Pack strong sunscreen (SPF 50+), wide-brim hat, and insect repellent for malaria-prone zones; always have your vaccination records and emergency contact info for evacuation insurance.
Travel Gear
Opt for a durable backpack with lockable compartments for security, reusable water bottle with purification tablets, and a lightweight sleeping bag for potential overnight stays in villages.
Include a money belt or hidden pouch for valuables, multiple passport copies, and a small flashlight for power outages; dust masks are essential for sandstorms in southern provinces.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support for rugged terrains like Band-e-Amir trails, and comfortable sandals for urban exploration in Kabul or Herat.
Waterproof options are key for occasional rains or river crossings, and pack extra socks to handle dusty roads; break in shoes before travel to avoid blisters on long walks.
Personal Care
Bring travel-sized toiletries like biodegradable soap, wet wipes, and moisturizer for dry climates; include lip balm and eye drops for dust and wind exposure.
Feminine hygiene products may be scarce outside cities, so pack accordingly; a compact towel and laundry soap help maintain cleanliness during extended trips without frequent washing facilities.
When to Visit Afghanistan
Spring (March-May)
Mild weather with temperatures of 15-25°C makes it ideal for exploring gardens in Kabul and blooming valleys in the north, with wildflowers enhancing scenic drives to Panjshir.
Fewer crowds allow for peaceful visits to historical sites, though early spring may bring occasional snowmelt floods in mountainous areas—perfect for cultural festivals like Nowruz celebrations.
Summer (June-August)
Hot and dry with highs of 30-40°C in lowlands, best for high-altitude escapes like Wakhan Corridor hikes where cooler temps prevail around 20°C.
Avoid southern deserts due to extreme heat, but northern lakes like Band-e-Amir offer refreshing swims; peak season means more local tourists but still limited international visitors.
Autumn (September-November)
Comfortable 15-25°C weather with golden landscapes, excellent for trekking in the Hindu Kush or visiting apple orchards in Kohistan.
Harvest season brings vibrant bazaars and lower humidity, ideal for photography and road trips to ancient Silk Road ruins without summer's intense sun.
Winter (December-February)
Cool to cold with 0-10°C in cities and snow in mountains, suiting indoor cultural pursuits like visiting museums in Kabul or thermal springs in northern provinces.
Budget-friendly with minimal crowds, though passes may close due to snow—enjoy traditional winter foods and holidays, but prepare for shorter days and potential heating shortages.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Afghan Afghani (AFN). Exchange USD cash in bazaars; cards rarely accepted, ATMs limited to Kabul.
- Language: Pashto and Dari (Afghan Persian) are official. English spoken in tourist areas and by younger urbanites; learn basic phrases for respect.
- Time Zone: Afghanistan Time (AFT), UTC+4:30
- Electricity: 220-240V, 50Hz. Type C/F plugs (European two-pin); power outages common—bring adapters and backups.
- Emergency Number: 102 for police, 103 for ambulance, 119 for fire; international +93 prefix for calls abroad
- Tipping: Not customary but appreciated; small amounts (AFN 50-100) for guides or drivers in exceptional service
- Water: Tap water unsafe—use bottled or purified; boil or treat with tablets in remote areas to prevent illness
- Pharmacies: Available in cities like Kabul; stock up on essentials abroad as rural options are basic