Living in Tajikistan guide for expats

Covering a total area of 143,100 km2, Tajikistan is a country of mountains, which take up over 90% of the land. Home to the famous Wakhan Valley, where the Great Game ended in 1907 and a dramatic highland setting, Tajikistan is the perfect playground for climbers, hikers, and adventure lovers, but still, has a long way to go before it becomes a sought-after expat destination.

Tajikistan's capital and largest city is Dushanbe with the population of over 670,000 people. Some of the country's other big cities are Isfara (an ancient town on the Silk Road), Kulob (the third largest city), and Qurghonteppa (the heart of the country's Civil War). The country's official language is Tajik, but Russian is also widely spoken in some areas.

The country's economy primarily relies on agriculture and the extraction of minerals, as well as on the capital brought in by Tajikistan expats. Tajikistan's economy was severely weakened by the Civil War (1992-1997), and the country's GDP is one of the lowest when compared to other former Soviet Republics.

The country is home to a beautiful highland landscape and many historical attractions. Tajikistan is a goldmine for those practising mountaineering ' Lenin Peak (7,134 metres), Fann Mountains, Ismoil Somoni Peak (the highest in Tajikistan), and others offer the perfect setting for climbing adventurers and trekking expeditions while the Tajikistan National Museum located in Dushanbe tells the history of the region. The country is also rich in lakes: Sarez Lake, Bulunkul, Yashilkul to name but a few.

Residents from many countries can travel to Tajikistan visa-free (countries with high GDP, former Soviet Union countries, etc.). If you do require a visa to Tajikistan, you will need to apply for one ahead of time at the Embassy or Consulate in your home country.