Local Laws

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe. Expect  long jail sentences and heavy fines if you are convicted.

Tajikistan maintains zero tolerance for alcohol-related incidents.

It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.  Ask before taking photographs of anything of possible military or security interest.

Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport, Tajik visa, and visa registration, since local police frequently conduct document inspections.  Check visa and registration validity dates and renew them before they expire.

Arrest Notification:   If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Currency and Banking: Tajikistan is a cash-only economy. Credit cards are rarely accepted, and traveler’s checks are not used. 

International banking services are limited.  Some ATM machines are available and dispense local currency. Tajikistan's national currency is the Somoni, which is convertible.

Earthquakes:  Tajikistan is an earthquake-prone country. For on natural disaster preparedness, see   U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report.

LGBT Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBT events, although Tajik society is generally hostile to LGBT interests.  See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Buildings, public transportation, communication, and road crossings are inaccessible.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.