Kyrgyz Citizenship: How to Get it in 2025

Kyrgyzstan offers one of the most accessible citizenship pathways. Thanks to its open legal framework, favourable residency policies, and relatively low cost of living, the country can be attractive to global citizens, investors, and digital nomads. This article outlines the benefits of Kyrgyz citizenship, the various routes available, and how to complete the application process step by step.

What Gives Kyrgyz Citizenship

Holding Kyrgyz citizenship opens up a range of opportunities:

• Visa-free access to over 60 countries, including Turkey, Serbia, and most CIS nations.
• Dual citizenship permitted in practice. While not governed by specific treaties, Kyrgyz law does not require applicants to renounce their original citizenship.
• Access to US visas: Citizens of Kyrgyzstan may receive tourist visas to the United States valid for up to 5 years. Additionally, after 3 years of residency, they may become eligible for the E-2 Investor Visa, which is not currently available to many passport holders.
• Access to any European immigration programme and possibility to obtain Schengen visas. There are also no restrictions for citizens.
• Unrestricted access to international banking and investment tools. Unlike many jurisdictions with financial sanctions or restrictions, Kyrgyz citizens face no such limitations.
• Favourable tax regime. With corporate income tax at just 10% and VAT at 12%, Kyrgyzstan offers an efficient environment for business.
• Full legal rights comparable to native citizens, including access to employment, healthcare, and education.
• Affordable cost of living. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Bishkek is lower than in European capitals. For example, it is approximately 61% lower than in Berlin and 38% lower than in Budapest (including rent).

How to Get Kyrgyz Citizenship

Kyrgyz Citizenship by Naturalisation

For those without family or ethnic connections, the standard process requires:

• Five years of legal residence in Kyrgyzstan.
• Knowledge of the Kyrgyz language, constitution, and legislation.
• Proof of legal income.
• Legal residency status (e.g. via work, study, or business).

Applicants must first obtain a residence permit, typically based on employment, business or education.

Simplified Acquisition of Kyrgyz Citizenship

The fast-track process is available for applicants who meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Born in the Kyrgyz SSR and resided there before 1991.
• Born before 1991 in the former USSR (including Russia, Kazakhstan, or Belarus).
• Have at least one parent who is a Kyrgyz citizen and currently resides in Kyrgyzstan.

These candidates are exempt from the standard five-year residency requirement. Eligibility must be proven through official documents such as birth certificates and registration records. Once approved, spouses and adult children may also qualify. If a candidate was born after 1991, citizenship must be obtained via their parents — doubling the processing time. The entire process is legal and regulated.

Kyrgyz Citizenship for Those Born in the USSR

If an applicant was born in the territory of the former USSR or has parents who are citizens of Kyrgyzstan, they can apply for citizenship under a simplified procedure.

Obtaining Kyrgyz Citizenship by Birth

Children born in Kyrgyzstan automatically receive citizenship if at least one parent or guardian is a Kyrgyz citizen.

Kyrgyz Citizenship by Marriage

A foreign national who marries a Kyrgyz citizen can apply for citizenship after 3 years of legal cohabitation. The marriage must be legally registered and documented.

Kyrgyz Citizenship by Ethnicity

Individuals of Kyrgyz ethnic origin may apply for citizenship without meeting any minimum residency requirements. Ancestral ties must be verified via genealogical or official documents. This process previously operated under the Kayrylman repatriation programme.

Procedure for Obtaining Kyrgyz Citizenship

The process of applying for Kyrgyz citizenship follows several administrative steps. Here’s what applicants can expect:

1. Collect required documents.
   The document package varies slightly depending on the basis of application. For both simplified and naturalisation pathways, a candidate needs original identity documents, proof of legal stay (if already residing in Kyrgyzstan), and financial documentation are essential.
2. Submit an application.
   Applications are lodged with the State Migration Service or, in some cases, via Kyrgyz consulates abroad. For naturalisation, the applicant must already hold a valid residence permit for 5 years before applying.
3. Complete a language and legal knowledge assessment.
   Naturalisation candidates must demonstrate basic knowledge of the Kyrgyz language and understanding of national legislation.
4. Verification and background checks
   Authorities will conduct thorough checks, including criminal records, proof of income, and authenticity of documentation.
5. Presidential decree and finalisation
   Once approved, a decree is signed by the President of Kyrgyzstan. Applicants are then notified and required to travel to Bishkek to finalise the procedure.
6. Final visit and document issuance
   Upon approval, applicants obtain their Kyrgyz ID card.

How Much Does it Cost to Obtain Kyrgyz Citizenship

Key government fees include:

Documents for Obtaining Kyrgyz Citizenship

Applicants should prepare the following main documents:

• Citizenship application form.
• Passport and notarised copies.
• International passport and two notarised copies.
• Proof of legal residency in Kyrgyzstan.
• Birth certificate.
• Marriage certificate.
• Police clearance certificate.
• Passport-style photographs.
• Proof of financial stability.

Dual Citizenship in Kyrgyzstan

Holding another passport in Kyrgyzstan is legally recognised. This makes it possible to retain one’s original citizenship while acquiring a Kyrgyz one, facilitating ease of travel, tax planning, and cross-border business.

Kyrgyz Citizenship: Visa-Free Countries

Kyrgyz citizens enjoy visa-free access to 63 countries, including:

• Turkey, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, and most CIS nations.
• E-visas are available for destinations such as Singapore, UAE, Oman, Qatar, and Indonesia.

Kyrgyz citizens are also eligible for the US E-2 Investor Visa, subject to 3 years of prior residence in Kyrgyzstan — a privilege unavailable to some nationals.

How to Restore Kyrgyz Citizenship

Former citizens of Kyrgyzstan can regain citizenship by applying to the Migration Service if they:

• Have resided in Kyrgyzstan for at least one year.
• Have no criminal record.

How to Renounce Kyrgyz Citizenship

To relinquish citizenship, one must:

• Submit a formal application to a Kyrgyz consulate.
• Pay a fee of 2,222 soms (25 US dollars).
• Upon approval, a certificate confirming renunciation will be issued.

Other Opportunities in Kyrgyzstan

• Digital Nomad Visa. Officially introduced for remote professionals who wish to live and work legally in Kyrgyzstan without a labour permit.
• Investor residency. A residence permit is available for those investing 10 million soms (115,000 dollars) in the economy.
• Clean environment. Dominated by mountains and nature reserves, Kyrgyzstan offers some of the cleanest air in Asia.
• Tourism. Renowned for ski resorts like Shamsy, Karakol, and Song-Kul, suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
• Affordable housing. A one-bedroom flat in Bishkek starts from 1.6 million soms (19,000 dollars).

Author: Julia Naymushina