After my failed attempt to get a Kyrgyzstan Tourist E-Visa on time, I had no choice but to take a Kyrgyzstan Visa on Arrival with my Philippine Passport. I feel uneasy doing it this way but true enough, the visa-on-arrival facility at Manas International Airport is easy and hassle-free. Traveling to Kyrgyzstan soon and you want to get a Visa on Arrival? Keep reading!
DISCLAIMER: As of 2024, Philippine Passport Holders can obtain either an E-Visa or a Visa On Arrival in Kyrgyzstan as per IATA. This eligibility is based on the passport and NOT on the residency in the UAE. I also have experience with both visas, but this post is focused only on the visa on arrival. If you are interested in applying for an E-Visa, please refer to my other POST.
Visa on Arrival at Manas International Airport
When I say the process is easy, take it from me, I am not sugarcoating my statement.
Once you go out of the aircraft, you will arrive on the 2nd floor of the airport. The airport staff will direct everyone to the first floor where the passport control is located. Before the passport control or what we usually call Immigration, on your left side will be the 'Visa Office'.
Visa Requirements
I just said 'Visa' to the visa officer and he asked for my passport right away. Then handed me the application form (see photo below).
As instructed by the visa officer, I need to fill out the sections from #1-#13 as well as the Date and Signature at the bottom part.
I was not asked to submit a photo but always keep a photo with you, you never know when you will need it (I always have).
Kyrgyzstan Tourist Visa Cost
The Visa on Arrival cost is the same as when I applied for my E-Visa. It cost me around $51 / AED 195 for a single-entry 30-day tourist visa. The cost may vary depending on your nationality (there are some cases in other countries so please check accordingly).
As of May 2022, cash payments were NOT ACCEPTED. Make sure you have a credit/debit card (mine's a debit card) with you to pay for your visa.
Result & Overall Experience
While I was busy and anxiously getting my debit card (my debit card was not accepted in Baku before), the visa officer stuck the visa on my passport already. Like what would happen if my card was not accepted? Holy moly.
But I guess that's how laidback, relaxed, and welcoming the Kyrgyz are. They are giving me the visa even before I can secure my payment. I'm speechless and I taking it as a good thing though!
Not more than 5 minutes later, I got my Kyrgyzstan Visa on Arrival! The experience is hassle-free and stress-free. And that's the moment I knew I'd love Kyrgyzstan!
Kyrgyzstan E-Visa or Visa on Arrival?
To be honest, it's totally up to you. However...
Based on recent reports by fellow travelers, getting a visa on arrival at Manas International Airport can take some time (1-2 hours). Remember that most of the flights arrive in the wee hours of the day simultaneously. There could be lots of tourists applying for a visa on arrival at the same time hence the long queues.
Also, take note that visa on arrival is ONLY available at Manas International Airport. If you're entering Kyrgyzstan from another country (for example, Kazakhstan) through a land border, sorry but you will not get a visa on arrival (or the visa sticker). Make sure you have an e-visa instead.
Ready to explore the beautiful country of Kyrgyzstan? Check my guide on How to Go from Manas International Airport to Bishkek and back!
