Living in Kyrgyzstan as an expat

Expats moving to Kyrgyzstan will find themselves in a small yet fascinating nook of Central Asia. With the rocky Tian Shan region covering 80 percent of Kyrgyzstan, this landlocked country is as mountainous as it is tiny, with numerous lakes and valleys dotted between the soaring peaks.

Once part of the Soviet Union, Kyrgyzstan has been making gradual changes to embrace a new way of life since its declaration of autonomy in 1991.

Working in Kyrgyzstan

Expats who come to Kyrgyzstan usually work in the development sector for a range of international or local organisations and NGOs or in the mining industry. Volunteering is also becoming increasingly popular, and English teachers are always in high demand. Kyrgyzstan is considered one of Central Asia’s safer, more attractive countries. Various companies frequently use it as a base for conducting projects throughout the rest of the region.

That said, Kyrgyzstan is not a typical expat destination, with few moving there for reasons other than an already-established job contract. Most expats settle in the capital city of Bishkek, with a minority heading to the country’s second-largest city of Osh instead.

As a foreigner looking to work in Kyrgyzstan, you’ll need both a work permit and visa to live and work in the country. You’ll need to apply for an employment visa, and once you are in the country, your employer must apply for a work permit from the State Migration Service.

Working in Kyrgyzstan

Local culture in Kyrgyzstan

The local culture in Kyrgyzstan is influenced by the country’s past ties to the Soviet Union. The biggest challenge facing expats will be related to the language barrier. Most locals speak Russian, while others speak Kyrgyz, so it’s rare to come across English speakers in the country. Slow bureaucracy and corruption are other issues some expats may have to deal with.

The work culture in Kyrgyzstan is traditional, with an emphasis on hierarchy in the workplace. Communication tends to be indirect to maintain harmony. We recommend learning more about local customs, as locals will appreciate any effort to respect Kyrgyz traditions.

Local Culture in Kyrgyzstan

Finding accommodation in Kyrgyzstan

The quality of housing in Kyrgyzstan varies, depending on whether you find an old-Soviet-style or a modern high-rise apartment. Rental prices in luxury apartments in Bishkek are fairly high but will still be affordable for most expats, while properties in other cities and rural areas will be cheap.

Most expats moving to Kyrgyzstan for work will be fortunate enough to have their employer or a relocation company assist them with the house search. If you’re going at it alone, it’s advisable to hire a bilingual real estate agent who has experience working with expats.

Renting Accommodation in Kyrgyzstan 
Safety in Kyrgyzstan

Cost of living in Kyrgyzstan

Thanks to the country’s low cost of living, it is inexpensive to live well in Kyrgyzstan. Many companies organise comfortable accommodation for their employees when they arrive, but if not, various options are easily accessible in larger cities. Eating out and groceries will also be affordable, but prices for fresh produce during winter when they are in short supply.

Healthcare and international school fees are likely to be your highest expenses while living in Kyrgyzstan. If you choose to buy a car, you’ll also have to account for high purchase and maintenance costs.

Cost of Living in Kyrgyzstan

Living in Kyrgyzstan with children

Outdoorsy expats will be right at home in Kyrgyzstan with its stunning natural beauty offering plenty to do, see and explore. Endless opportunities for skiing and hiking present themselves on the country’s many mountains, and swimming and lounging on the shores of the idyllic Lake Issyk-Kul are popular pastimes.

The majority of Kyrgyzstan’s population is Muslim, but this is not an immediately apparent aspect of everyday life. Modern Kyrgyz culture is a blend of ancient tradition tempered with touches of Islam and Soviet-style habits (which becomes obvious when dealing with anything bureaucratic). In a perfect demonstration of this careful balance, vodka is an essential part of any Kyrgyz celebration, although pork products are usually absent from such gatherings.

Finding a school in Kyrgyzstan

Although Kyrgyzstan has a literacy rate of over 95 percent, the quality of education in the country is often considered inadequate. This is particularly the case in rural areas, where access to education is limited. As such, most expats will send their children to international schools in Kyrgyzstan.

Most international schools are located in Bishkek and Osh, with fewer options elsewhere in the country. You can find schools offering the International Baccalaureate, American, and British systems, among others. These globally recognised curricula allow children to continue learning a familiar curriculum in a comfortable learning environment.

Getting around in Kyrgyzstan

Public transport in Kyrgyzstan’s major cities like Bishkek is varied. Options include buses, taxis, and shared taxis known as marshrutkas. Cars are imported in Kyrgyzstan, so if you want to purchase one, you’ll have to either buy it second-hand or import it, increasing the cost significantly. Most expats frequently buy a car from expats leaving the country, making it more affordable.

Climate and weather in Kyrgyzstan

Due to its mountainous landscape with varying altitudes, Kyrgyzstan’s climate varies widely throughout the country. The higher parts of the Tien Shan range are polar, just barely thawing in the summer, while lowlands like the Fergana Valley are subtropical, just barely freezing in the winter. The capital, Bishkek, is located in the foothills and marked by a temperate continental climate, with the mercury dropping to 18°F (-8°C) in the winter and rising to 90°F (32°C) in the summer.

Not a typical expat enclave, Kyrgyzstan is certainly a destination primed for those seeking something a little less ordinary. A spirit of adventure and an open mind will go a long way in helping you adjust to life in this Central Asian country.

Fast facts

Official name: Kyrgyz Republic

Population: 7.5 million

Capital city: Bishkek (also the largest city)

Political system: Unitary parliamentary constitutional republic

Neighbouring countries: Kyrgyzstan is bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west and southwest, Tajikistan to the southwest and China to the east.

Geography: Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked mountainous country rich with minerals. However, due to its mountainous terrain, very little land is cultivated.

Main languages: Kyrgyz and Russian (official)

Major religions: Islam

Money: The official currency is the Som (KGS), divided into 100 tyiyns.

Tipping: Tipping is not a common practice in Kyrgyzstan. Service charges are typically built into restaurant bills and flat-fare taxi rides, although you may give an extra tip if desired.

Time: GMT+6

Electricity: 220V, 50 Hz. Round, European-style two-pin plugs are common.

International dialling code: +996

Internet domain: .kg

Emergency numbers: 102 (police), 103 (ambulance), 101 (fire)

Transport and driving: Bishkek has an established public transport system consisting of buses, trolleybuses and taxis, but outside the major urban centres, transport is limited, and expats should consider purchasing their own vehicle.

Kyrgyzstan’s economy is rooted in its natural resources, with around a third of the country’s GDP derived from agriculture. Other prominent industries include mining, manufacturing, and exports.

Most expats will earn salaries far lower than what is possible in Western countries or other expat destinations in general. Still, the low cost of living eases financial pressure. While expats aren’t likely to become rich in Kyrgyzstan, they can live comfortably while experiencing a new culture and working environment.

Cost of Living in Kyrgyzstan

Job market in Kyrgyzstan

You’ll find that expats working in Kyrgyzstan are largely employed in the development sector, either for large, international organisations such as the United Nations and the European Commission or for smaller non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

In addition to development opportunities, you can find several foreign-owned mining companies operating in Kyrgyzstan. Native English speakers, and those of European languages to a lesser extent, are always in high demand for teaching positions across all education levels.

Kyrgyzstan’s emerging IT and technology sector is also hiring expats who are skilled in AI, blockchain, machine learning, and IT project management. As the country seeks to improve its healthcare system, the demand for skilled healthcare professionals is also growing.

Finding a job in Kyrgyzstan

As most international organisations and NGOs are required to post job openings online, those who are interested in roles in these fields should research the websites of organisations and companies operating in Kyrgyzstan. It is not impossible to find such a position once in Kyrgyzstan, but most employers advertise and hire for positions based on online correspondence instead of looking for potential candidates who are already in the country.

Every foreigner planning to work in Kyrgyzstan must have a valid work permit. Most employers will organise visas and work permits. Expats should be wary of language schools and smaller organisations that do not assume this burden.

Useful links

• Development Aid – Jobs in Kyrgyzstan
• UNjobs
• LinkedIn

Work culture in Kyrgyzstan

The Kyrgyz working week is Monday through Friday, and the typical workday is eight to nine hours. Teachers could have an altered schedule depending on their class load. Punctuality is not an obvious aspect of business in Kyrgyzstan, and although expats should be punctual themselves, they should be prepared to plan meetings around other participants arriving at least 15 minutes late.

Hierarchy plays an important role in the work culture in Kyrgyzstan, so expect decision-making to be deferred to superiors or older colleagues. Locals tend to communicate indirectly to avoid confrontation and maintain harmony in the workplace, which can initially make it difficult for expats to discern when a yes is a yes and a yes is a no.

It’s useful to have business cards with one side printed in English and the other in Kyrgyz or Russian. You should dress smartly for business purposes, and always remember to keep your shoes clean.

This former Soviet Union republic had limited exposure to Western influence during the Soviet era, though it was integrated into the broader Soviet economic and cultural sphere. Everything from language and clothing to the music played in buses and nightclubs bears Soviet influence.

Many new arrivals will find the mixture of unfamiliar Kyrgyz and Russian traditions and habits strange. This former Soviet Union republic was isolated for many years. As a result, very few expats will have encountered local behaviour. Foreigners, therefore, often experience a significant degree of culture shock in Kyrgyzstan.

Language in Kyrgyzstan

Like many former Soviet Union countries, Kyrgyzstan experienced a period of Russification where Russian was promoted as the primary language for official use and education. While Russian became widespread, particularly in urban areas, many Kyrgyz people maintained their native language throughout the Soviet era. Today, both Kyrgyz and Russian are official languages in the country. Russian is more common in the northern region and in larger cities, while Kyrgyz is more common in the south.

Kyrgyz is a Turkic language related to Kazakh and Uzbek. It shares the Cyrillic script with Russian but has three extra letters that reflect unique Kyrgyz sounds.

English speakers can be hard to come by in Kyrgyzstan, but much more so outside large cities or tourist destinations. Being able to read Cyrillic and knowing basic Russian phrases will prevent a few headaches. Luckily, it is inexpensive to study Russian (or Kyrgyz) in the country. Language exchanges are also fairly popular, with many locals eager to practise their English.

Etiquette and customs in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyz people are generally warm and inviting, so you’ll likely be invited to a traditional dinner. You should take a small gift (drinks or sweets work well) and be sure to remove your shoes at the door. Eating and drinking are taken very seriously, so guests at a Kyrgyz dinner may be overwhelmed with food.

Toasts are made frequently, usually with vodka. Men are expected to take part in every toast they are offered; women can sometimes politely decline alcohol but are otherwise expected to keep up with every toast. It is common that if a bottle of vodka is opened, it must be finished in one sitting.

Bribes are an unfortunate custom in Kyrgyzstan. Police sometimes stop foreigners to check their passports and visas and may threaten those caught without them with a trip to the police station before requesting a small payoff. Taxi drivers sometimes try to charge foreigners more, and bureaucratic tasks have been known to be facilitated with a few bills.

Food in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyz cuisine can take some time to adjust to. Many dishes are heavy on meat and animal fat (often mutton), as various vegetables can be tough to find in winter. Kyrgyz delicacies include horse sausage, beshbarmak (boiled mutton with noodles and broth), and kumys (also known as kumis), Kyrgyzstan’s national drink made from fermented mare’s milk. Many expats consider kumys to be an acquired taste.

Doing business in Kyrgyzstan

It is not unusual for a Kyrgyz businessperson to arrive late to a meeting, and it should not be seen as an insult. Expats should not allow it to blemish their perception of the person’s work ethic. Try not to plan meetings far in advance, as they will inevitably be rescheduled at least once or twice.

When meeting any Kyrgyz person (even outside a business environment), it is normal for all men to shake hands. Women sometimes offer to shake hands with men, but it is not typical and should not be taken personally if a woman doesn’t extend her hand.

Women in Kyrgyzstan

Women in Kyrgyzstan often navigate a society where traditional gender roles remain influential, especially in rural areas, although urban centres like Bishkek are seeing gradual shifts toward gender equality. While the government has implemented measures to improve women’s rights and protections, challenges such as domestic violence and limited political representation persist.

Expat women typically do not face widespread harassment, but it’s advisable to dress modestly and remain aware of local customs to avoid unwanted attention. That said, societal attitudes are slowly changing, with growing awareness of gender issues and support networks for women gaining traction.

LGBTQ+ in Kyrgyzstan

LGBTQ+ individuals in Kyrgyzstan face significant challenges, as same-sex relationships are legal but not socially accepted, and there are no anti-discrimination laws protecting sexual orientation or gender identity. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are generally frowned upon and may attract negative attention or even harassment.

While there are a few underground LGBTQ+ support groups and occasional safe spaces in Bishkek, they tend to be discreet due to safety concerns. Expats should be mindful of local attitudes and exercise caution when expressing their identity in public. Despite the difficulties, a small but resilient LGBTQ+ community continues to advocate for greater visibility and rights.

Kyrgyz people are generally welcoming toward foreigners, and there is little to be concerned about serious safety concerns in Kyrgyzstan.

Many of the most obvious dangers can be avoided with some common sense and a heightened awareness of the surrounding environment. It should also be noted that political and ethnic unrest within the past decade has not directly affected expats, and daily routines have always resumed within a few days.

Driving and transport safety in Kyrgyzstan

Driving in Kyrgyzstan is organised chaos. The default speed is fast, and drivers are willing to swerve around anything in their way to get to their destination. Traffic laws are rarely enforced, and it’s not unusual for traffic police to try to solicit a bribe. You should drive defensively and be aware at all times.

The condition of the main road network throughout Kyrgyzstan is imperfect but has improved dramatically over the past few years. Outside of cities, the roads become more speckled with potholes and are poorly lit, which is especially dangerous when travelling over mountain passes.

It’s essential to use marked taxis only, especially when travelling from the airport, as some drivers may try to overcharge foreigners. Expats should also avoid sharing rides with strangers for safety reasons.

Crime in Kyrgyzstan

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, are the most common safety threat to foreigners, especially on public transport or in crowded public areas and markets. Foreigners can also be targets for muggings, especially in major cities like Bishkek, so it is important not to walk alone at night.

Common sense practices such as acting discreetly (especially when speaking English), trying to blend in, and not carrying large sums of money can help expats avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Protests and unrest in Kyrgyzstan

During past episodes of political and ethnic unrest, Western expats have not been targeted or impacted by violence (unless they put themselves directly in the protests), and the biggest concerns they faced were that major businesses closed for a few days. We recommend avoiding joining protests and lying low if a tense situation arises.

Emergency services in Kyrgyzstan

Emergency services are available in Kyrgyzstan’s larger cities and resort towns, but call centre employees and paramedics often do not speak English. Medical services are inexpensive, although it’s best to avoid Kyrgyz hospitals due to underfunding and outdated equipment.

Private hospitals and clinics in Bishkek with better-trained staff and newer equipment are available, although their services cost more. For simple treatments, some Kyrgyz doctors make house calls.

Expats can dial the following in an emergency:

• Fire: 101
• Police: 102
• Hospital: 103

Most expats living in Kyrgyzstan settle in either Bishkek, the capital, or Osh, the country’s second-largest city. Accommodation in Kyrgyzstan is widely available and varied in nature. Depending on their personal and work circumstances, some expats are just as likely to call a small room in a shared family house ‘home’, but most will unwind in a three-room luxury apartment in a new mid-rise building.

Types of accommodation in Kyrgyzstan

In recent years, more mid-rise luxury-style apartment buildings have found their way into the Bishkek skyline, making for reasonably priced, high-standard accommodation. These can be quite expensive, but accommodation outside the capital is cheaper and typically falls into the category of Soviet-style apartment blocks or small houses.

Amenities such as swimming pools, gardens and private yards are uncommon in Kyrgyzstan, especially in the city centres where most expats choose to settle. Further away from the tightly packed urban spaces, you can find houses with more personal space.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Furnished and semi-furnished apartments are the most common housing options. A semi-furnished apartment may require kitchenware, linen, and small appliances, while a fully furnished house will include everything needed to live comfortably.

There are several furniture shops in larger cities, but they all sell goods imported from China (inexpensive and poor quality), Turkey (pricey) or Europe (very expensive). There are also plenty of skilled craftsmen in Kyrgyzstan available to make furniture and houseware (such as cabinets, tables, and curtains) at a better price, but tracking down a skilled craftsman can be difficult, especially without the necessary language skills.

Short lets

Short lets, known locally as uylar and batirler, have become more popular in Kyrgyzstan. This is largely due to Kyrgyzstan’s growing reputation as a tourism hotspot. This benefits expats as they can now book suitable short-term accommodation while exploring different areas and suburbs without breaking the bank. Although platforms like Airbnb are not universally known across the country, they are still the best way to secure short lets in Kyrgyzstan.

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Cozycozy

Finding accommodation in Kyrgyzstan

If an expat’s employer arranges their visa and work permit, they will likely also arrange their accommodation in Kyrgyzstan as well. If you have to do it yourself, you can find reasonable accommodation through word-of-mouth or reputable real estate agencies. There are several agencies in Bishkek with English-speaking agents who can narrow down available properties to suit your budget and preferred neighbourhood.

A key thing to note when searching for housing is that a place is advertised by the total number of rooms, not just the number of bedrooms. Therefore, what is called a studio apartment elsewhere is known as a one-room apartment in Kyrgyzstan, a one-bedroom is called a two-room apartment, etc.

There should always be some form of security in your apartment complex or security estate. Usually, it’s a 24-hour security guard or a digital code to enter the building. Extra security on top of what is already available is often unnecessary.

Useful links

• House.kg
• 4321 Property
• etagi.com

Renting accommodation in Kyrgyzstan

Making an application

Once you have found a suitable apartment or home, you will have to submit your application to the landlord or real estate agent. Typically, you’ll need to submit a valid proof of identity, like a copy of your passport, proof of income (employment letter, bank statement, or sponsorship letter), and your visa or temporary residence permit if you are applying for a long-term lease. Although this isn’t standard across the board, some landlords may also ask for references from previous landlords.

Leases

Rental agreements in Kyrgyzstan are typically for a year but can be longer or shorter, depending on the tenant’s arrangement with the landlord. Lease agreements in the country can be simple verbal agreements or fully drafted legal documents.

Ensure the agreement clearly states who will be responsible for paying for utilities and taxes. It’s also likely that your rental contract will be in Russian, so we recommend having a friend or trusted colleague read through it to ensure there are no unfair terms.

Deposits

Landlords will usually require one month’s rent as a security, but some may request up to three months’ rent in addition to the first month’s payment. Fortunately, the deposit is fully refundable should the property be returned in good condition.

Terminating the lease

Both tenants and landlords must give at least one month’s notice before terminating a lease agreement. If the property is not damaged beyond normal wear and tear, tenants will often receive their security deposit within two weeks of moving out. We recommend conducting and documenting a thorough inspection when moving in and out to ensure you do not incur unfair charges.

Utilities in Kyrgyzstan

Utilities such as gas, electricity, water, and internet are not typically included in rental prices and are typically an extra expense for the tenant. Some landlords do include one or several utility costs as part of the rental price, but this is not a given. Connecting utilities in Kyrgyzstan will require patience due to the bureaucratic processes involved and the language barrier, but with some persistence, expats can get connected.

Electricity

There are four electricity distributors in Kyrgyzstan, varying by region. Sever Electro serves the Bishkek and Chuy regions. To register an account with a local energy distributor, you’ll need to visit a local branch, submit an online query, or call the company with copies of your passport and lease agreement ready.

You’ll also need to set up a payment method. Fortunately, most distributors offer online payment options, while others will require customers to visit a local branch or payment centre to pay their monthly bills.

Gas

Natural gas is not commonly used for heating households in Kyrgyzstan, but this is slowly changing in urban areas like Bishkek, where there are plans to expand the natural gas pipelines. Outside these areas, most households still rely on traditional fuel sources for heating.

Gazprom Kyrgyzstan is a state-owned company that supplies gas to the country. Similar to electricity, you will need to open a new account or transfer an existing one into your name. You will be required to supply the company with your passport, lease agreement, and refundable deposit. Payments are usually made monthly at designated Gazprom offices.

Water

Drinking water in Kyrgyzstan is not always safe, particularly in rural areas where there are water quality issues. Although tap water in Bishkek is largely considered safe, it’s still recommended to buy bottled or filtered water to ensure safety.

Local municipalities supply water in the country, so the account will likely remain in your landlord’s name. Some landlords include this cost in the monthly rental fee, while others send you the monthly bill.

Bins and recycling

Local authorities are responsible for waste collection in Kyrgyzstan, but the country’s waste management and recycling infrastructure are still underdeveloped. There is no mandatory waste separation or recycling systems in Kyrgyzstan. Solid household waste is collected daily and taken to landfills.

That said, private initiatives aim to improve the country’s recycling rates. Platforms like Tazar connect residents with recyclers and also promote separate waste collection through mobile apps.

Useful links

• Department for Regulation of the Fuel and Energy Complex under the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic
• Gazprom Kyrgyzstan
• Bishkek City Hall
• Tazar