Afghanistan Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide (Updated 2025)

Traveling to Afghanistan is no longer just for journalists, NGO workers, or the geopolitically curious. Today, Afghanistan is for everyone, and it’s attracting adventurous tourists drawn by its rich cultural heritage, mountain landscapes, and warm hospitality. But before you pack your bags, one thing is certain: you’ll need a valid Afghanistan tourist visa—and getting one isn’t as straightforward as it might be for more common destinations.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the process: where to apply, which documents you need, how long it takes, and how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re going it alone or using a tour operator like Koryo Tours or Untamed Borders, this article is your one-stop resource for Afghanistan visa requirements in 2025.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Afghanistan?

Short Answer: Yes, Everyone Does

Obtaining a visa for Afghanistan requires careful preparation and the right supporting documents. All foreign nationals require an Afghanistan visa to enter the country, which must be applied for before entering Afghanistan.

The requirements for an Afghanistan tourist visa include:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates
• Completed visa application form
• Two recent passport-sized photos
• Travel itinerary (provided by Let's See Afghanistan)
• A Letter of Invitation (LOI) issued by a licensed Afghan tour operator  (provided by Let's See Afghanistan)

Afghanistan consulate staff verify these documents before visa issuance and, at least at the Afghan Consulate in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with our assistance your visa can be issued same day. 

Where do I Apply for an Afghanistan Visa?

The best place to apply for your Afghanistan visa is the Afghan Consulate in Dubai and Abu Dhabi (a short taxi ride from Dubai). There are other consulates around the world, but Dubai offers frequent, inexpensive flights to Kabul and can usually issue visas same day.

No Embassy in Your Country? You’re Not Alone.

Many Afghan embassies and consulates around the world have closed or suspended operations in recent years. But that doesn’t mean getting a visa is impossible—it just means you’ll likely need to travel to a nearby third country to apply in person through a few key locations—namely Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Islamabad, and Peshawar. These cities have become hubs for tourist visa processing due to the fact that many traditional Afghanistan embassies / Consulates worldwide are either closed or not currently issuing tourist visas.

In addition to these primary centers, consulates in Doha, Istanbul, Tehran, and Damascus also offer visa services, though they may not be as consistently accessible for international visitors. Dubai has emerged as one of the most convenient places to secure an Afghan visa. Its geographic position makes it a natural stop for many travelers heading to Kabul, as a large number of international flights route through the UAE.

Dubai has remained a preferred location not just for its accessibility, but also for the smooth experience it tends to offer when navigating Consular services for visa requirements. What makes Dubai particularly attractive is its efficient and reliable visa process. The Afghan Consulate General in Dubai is known for handling applications quickly and professionally, with many travelers successfully receiving their visas within the same day. This fast turnaround is especially valuable for those with limited time or rapidly approaching travel dates, removing the uncertainty that often comes with international bureaucratic procedures.

Using a licensed tour agency like Let's See Afghanistan offers many advantages over navigating the process yourself. While it may seem cheaper to go the DIY route, working with an agency—especially one that includes visa assistance as part of their service—saves both time and stress. We will handle all of your paperwork, provide the required Letter of Invitation (LOI), and liaise directly with the consulate to ensure your application is complete and compliant, eliminating the risk of delays or rejection. Turnaround times are always faster through an agent, and you can avoid last-minute complications that arise from incorrect documentation or unclear requirements.

Here the key information you’ll need to locate and contact the most reliable and active locations currently processing Afghanistan tourist visa applications:

Most Reliable Embassies & Consulates (as of 2025):

• Dubai, UAE – Fast and efficient; many tourists report same-day processing with correct paperwork.
• Islamabad & Peshawar, Pakistan – High volume of applications; frequently used by tour agencies.
• Tehran, Iran – Also actively issuing visas; useful for travelers already in the region.
• Doha, Qatar – Another reasonable option that we can arrange if you prefer.
• Istanbul, Türkiye – Less consistent, but an option.
• Damascus, Syria – Open but logistically more complex with recent geopolitical events.

Step-by-Step Visa Application Process

How to Apply for an Afghan Visa in Dubai

Applying for an Afghan visa at the Dubai Consulate is one of the most reliable ways to secure entry into Afghanistan—especially for tourists. The process is manageable but much smoother with our help. Here’s what to expect if you want to do it on your own: 

Pre-Application Checklist

Make sure you have the following ready before booking your appointment
• Valid passport (min. 6 months validity, at least 1 blank page)
• Two passport-sized photos (5x4 cm, white background, recent)
• Completed visa application form
• Letter of Invitation (LOI) (provided by Let's See Afghanistan)
• Travel itinerary (provided by Let's See Afghanistan)
• Proof of funds, such as a bank statement showing you have enough funds available for your trip

Step 1: Complete the Visa Application Form
Complete the Visa Application Form and fill it out carefully. Common mistakes include missing fields, unsigned forms, or not attaching an LOI which must be included. Tour operators will often handle or review your form to catch small errors that could cause delays or rejection.

Step 2: Submit Documents at the Dubai Consulate
Go to the Afghan Consulate in Dubai with your full application package. Dress modestly: Women should wear a headscarf and loose-fitting clothes. Men should wear pants and sleeves—no shorts or sleeveless shirts for any gender. Arrive early; document submission is typically handled in the morning. You may be asked simple questions about your travel plans. 

Step 3: Collect Your Visa
You’ll be notified when your passport is ready—often the same day—though delays do happen. With Let's See Afghanistan, Visas your visa will be coordinated in advance and ready before your flight. DIY applicants should be prepared for delays. Even small errors can lead to extended stays in Dubai or last-minute flight changes. 

Fees & Processing Times

What are the Visa Fees and Processing Options at an Afghan Embassy?

Afghanistan tourist visa fees and processing timelines vary by location and how you apply. While standard embassy turnaround takes 21 days or more, travelers working with licensed tour agencies often benefit from faster, streamlined processing, with same day service available if pre-coordinated through Let's See Afghanistan.

Standard vs. Express Service

• Standard processing through embassies: ~21 business days
• Express processing via Let's See Afghanistan: same day

Payment Methods by Location

Accepted payment methods depend on where you apply:

Cash
• Peshawar & Islamabad (Pakistan) – USD required
• Doha (Qatar) – USD required
• Tehran (Iran) – Euros required

Credit/Debit Card
• Dubai (UAE) – Visa and Mastercard required, no cash or money orders

Visa Fee Snapshot

Extending a Tourist Visa in Afghanistan

How do I Renew my Tourist Stay in Afghanistan?

Tourist visa extensions are handled in Kabul. You may apply through the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ consular directorate in Kabul. Likewise, you may extend your visa by visiting Kabul’s General Passport Office (Ministry of Interior) to request an extension. Realistically, the best way to do this is simply to get in touch with us, and Let's See Afghanistan will take care of your extension.

Required Documents & Costs

To extend your tourist visa, you generally need to submit:

• Passport & Visa: Your original passport (valid 6+ months) plus photocopies of the identity page, current Afghan visa, and entry stamp.
  
• Photos: Two to four recent passport-size photos (white background).
  
• Application Form: A completed extension request form (usually available at the office).
  
• Supporting Letter: A brief explanation or invitation letter may be required if you have local contacts or a tour sponsor.
  
• Other IDs: Sometimes a copy of a return ticket or local address registration is requested.
  

Fees for an extension are relatively modest. Official processing fees are often paid in local currency and cost roughly a few USD for one-month extensions. Note that tourist visas can generally be extended only once for 30 days, subject to approval by the Afghan Ministry of Interior and Tourism.

What are the Fines and Risks if I Overstay my Visa?

Overstaying without extension carries hefty penalties. Recent travellers report fines of about US $10 per day for the first month of overstay, and $15 per day for the second month. Critically, if you overstay by more than 2 months, authorities will typically deport you in addition to levying fines. In practice, be warned that overstaying can lead to detention or extra delays when exiting. Avoiding these issues is simple: if your visa is expiring soon, contact us and Let's See Afghanistan will make your problems disappear.

Afghanistan Border Entry & Exit

What Should I Expect at Airports and Land Crossings in Afghanistan?

Arrival at Kabul International Airport
Landing in Kabul can feel momentous—especially for first-time visitors—but the process is fairly simple if you’re prepared and you know what to expect.

Arrival at Kabul International Airport – What to Expect

• Landing in Kabul can feel like a big moment, especially if it’s your first time—but rest assured, the process on arrival is straightforward, and with the right preparation, it’s smooth and stress-free.
• Your Let's See Afghanistan guide and fixer will meet you inside the airport and guide you through the process, making sure you avoid making any unintentional mistakes that may delay or prevent your entry into Afghanistan. We will fix any problems before they occur.
• After disembarking, you’ll head into the immigration area. You’ll need to present your passport with your Afghan visa inside—make sure it’s ready to show. The officer will place an entry stamp directly over the visa. This part is usually quick, with minimal queues for foreign travelers.
• Next, you’ll stop by a foreigner registration desk located just before the baggage claim area. Here, you’ll fill out a short form and hand over two passport-sized photos. In return, you’ll receive a temporary ID card that you’ll need to carry during your trip. Don’t lose it!  You will need to return it when you depart Afghanistan.
• Once registered, you’ll collect your bags from the carousel. Hold on to your baggage claim tag, as it may be checked as you exit. Your luggage will go through a final x-ray scan—note that any alcohol, politically sensitive, or banned items may be confiscated here. If any banned items of value are confiscated, Let's See Afghanistan will make sure they are returned to you when you exit the country.
• When you exit the terminal, turn left to reach the meeting area and car park. If you’re traveling on your own without a tour agency, you can attempt to find a taxi here.

Afghanistan Land Border Crossings

As of 2025, a number of Afghanistan’s land border crossings remain open and are actively stamping passports for foreign travelers. That said, entry regulations can shift quickly in response to regional security or diplomatic developments, so please contact us here at Let's See Afghanistan before starting your trip and we can give you the latest information.

Operational Land Border Crossings for Foreign Nationals

1. Sher Khan Bandar (Afghanistan–Tajikistan)

• Location: Near Kunduz, connecting to Panji Poyon in Tajikistan.
  
• Status: Open and actively processing foreign travelers.
  
• Notes: In 2024, nearly 700 foreign tourists entered Afghanistan through this port, indicating its reliability for international visitors.
  

2. Islam Qala (Afghanistan–Iran)

• Location: Near Herat, connecting to Dogharoun in Iran.
  
• Status: Open to some foreigners. The situation is constantly changing, and Western travelers may face issues here.
  
• Notes: This is a major trade and travel route, facilitating entry for those coming from Iran.
  

3. Torkham (Afghanistan–Pakistan)

• Location: Near Jalalabad, connecting to Peshawar in Pakistan.
  
• Status: Operational for foreign nationals with valid visas and passports.
  
• Notes: While open, travelers should be aware of potential sudden closures.
  

4. Hairatan (Afghanistan–Uzbekistan)

• Location: Near Mazar-i-Sharif, connecting to Termez in Uzbekistan.
  
• Status: Recently reopened and currently processing for foreign nationals.
  
• Notes: Travelers should verify the latest status before planning to cross here.
  

5. Torghundi (Afghanistan–Turkmenistan)

• Location: In Herat Province, connecting to Serhetabat in Turkmenistan.
  
• Status: Open, but Turkmen authorities have occasionally denied entry even to those with valid documentation.
  
• Notes: Caution is advised, confirm entry requirements in advance.
  

6. Aqina (Afghanistan–Turkmenistan)

• Location: In Faryab Province, connecting to Imamnazar in Turkmenistan.
  
• Status: Operational; primarily used for trade but accessible to travelers with proper documentation.
  
• Notes: Ensure all travel documents are in order before attempting to cross.
  

Important Considerations

• Visa Requirements: All foreign nationals must obtain a visa in advance; visas on arrival are not available at land crossings.
  
• Documentation: Carry multiple copies of your visa, passport, and any supporting documents.  Keep at least one extra set of copies on your person.
  
• Security Checks: Be prepared for thorough inspections and questioning at border points.
  
• Local Regulations: Stay informed about the local laws and customs of the regions you plan to visit.
  

You can never be sure of what you will encounter at land border crossing and regional security. As with other methods of entry it's highly recommended to consult with Let's See Afghanistan before planning your travel through these crossings. We can provide the most current information and assist in ensuring a smooth entry into Afghanistan.

Afghanistan Safety & Travel Advisories

Both the U.S. Department of State and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) strongly advise against all travel to Afghanistan. These travel warnings are outdated and largely political in nature.

That said, you should be aware that, unlike other countries you may have traveled to, your home country almost certainly has no diplomatic presence in Afghanistan. So, if you lose your passport you cannot simply go to your embassy to get a new one. This is about the only real world consequence that you may encounter.

If you commit a crime or are detained in Afghanistan, just like anywhere else your government will not do anything to help. However, unlike other places you may travel to, everything in Afghanistan is relationship based. We here at Let's See Afghanistan have close ties and many contacts to the Taliban, the local government, and can easily smooth over any misunderstandings.

Travel and Evacuation Insurance for Afghanistan

Travel insurance is something you should definitely consider purchasing before your trip. If you have a regular carrier, call them first to make sure they will cover your trip to Afghanistan. If they do not offer coverage in Afghanistan, don't worry. We have several carriers that we recommend:

• Global Rescue – Specializes in medical and security evacuation, including war zones and conflict areas.
  
• International SOS – Offers comprehensive medical, evacuation, and crisis response services globally.
  
• IMG (International Medical Group) – Their Patriot Platinum and Patriot Extreme plans can include evacuation and terrorism coverage.
  
• Crisis24 (formerly Drum Cussac) – Focuses on security risk management and evacuation for corporate and individual travelers.
  
• Battleface – Offers customizable travel insurance with options for war, terrorism, and high-risk destinations.
  

If you have any questions or concerns about travel insurance, don't let it be a roadblock for your trip. Get in touch with us and we will help you sort things out.

What is the best Afghanistan tour agency?

Of course that answer is Let's See Afghanistan. Getting an Afghan visa on your own is doable—but it can be time-consuming, confusing, and occasionally stressful, especially if you're unfamiliar with the regional bureaucracy or run into unexpected delays. That’s where a reputable tour agency makes all the difference. We don’t just simplify the paperwork—we remove the guesswork, help ensure your safety, and get you to Kabul and back home with everything sorted.

What We Handle for You:

• Local Fixers & On-Ground Support: Experienced guides who know the terrain and culture.
• Security Monitoring: We keep tabs on local conditions and adjust plans as needed to keep you safe.
• Letter of Invitation (LOI): Required for all tourist visas—our licensed status means your LOI is guaranteed and accepted.
• Transport Logistics: From airport transfers to remote 4x4 excursions, we’ve got you covered.