Risk level

Safety and security

Security situation

Terrorist actors remain active in Afghanistan. Attacks could occur at any time, including in Kabul and other major cities.

Foreigners and individuals associated to Western countries are targets for kidnappings and violence by terrorist groups. They are also at increased risk of being arbitrarily detained by the de facto authorities, especially if they had affiliations with the ousted government and/or contravene Islamic laws in effect since 2021.

The security situation is highly volatile and additional violent attacks could occur at any time across the country. Criminals are also taking advantage of the unstable security situation to commit violent attacks.

Violence against women is widespread in public and private spheres. Perpetrators are largely accorded impunity, and survivors have little to no recourse.

Travelling throughout the country is extremely dangerous, including in Kabul. There are checkpoints on all roads and throughout cities. Women are not allowed to travel by themselves and often face difficulties at checkpoints. Some borders are closed or may close without notice. Border crossing is risky due to the presence of criminal groups and smugglers.

If you are in Afghanistan:

• exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings
• use your judgment to decide the best time and the safest means of exit if you need to move to a safer location
• monitor international media to stay informed about the latest developments and decrees

Since August 2021, the de facto authorities have issued a series of decrees to regulate acceptable behaviours according to their strict interpretation of Islam.

Freedoms, including of expression and assembly, have been significantly reduced. All forms of dissent and criticism of the de facto authorities, including by journalists and activists from civil society, may result in arbitrary arrest and unlawful detention.

Protestors against the restrictions imposed by the de facto authorities risk arrest, detention, physical violence and abuse, as well as being charged with ’moral corruption’.  Security forces use violent methods to disperse protests, including water cannons, tear gas, and live bullets.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism throughout Afghanistan, including in Kabul and other major cities.

Terrorist actors remain active in Afghanistan. The de facto authorities fail to ensure security adequately, especially in border areas, and to counter frequent terrorist attacks.

Terrorists frequently target the following individuals:

• foreigners, especially from Western countries
• security and defence personnel
• non-governmental organizations (NGOs) personnel
• journalists and media workers
• healthcare workers
• other civilians

Attacks are unpredictable, both targeted and indiscriminate. They often involve the following types of weapons and/or devices:

• suicide vests
• improvised explosive devices (IEDs)
• vehicle-borne IEDs
• rockets and mortars
• assault weapons

Targets could also include:

• Afghan government buildings
• schools
• western interests, including foreign diplomatic representations
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels, medical facilities and other sites frequented by foreigners

Be particularly vigilant during: 

• sporting events 
• religious holidays 
• public celebrations 
• major political events,

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks. 

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+persons are discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. They are at high risk of physical attacks, sexual assault and other types of abuse.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Kidnapping

There is a very high risk of kidnapping of foreign nationals by terrorist actors. They have kidnapped and sometimes killed Westerners, including tourists, journalists, teachers, doctors and non-government organization workers. Journalists may be lured with offers of interviews when the real purpose is to kidnap them.

These groups will target anyone perceived to have money for kidnapping or extortion purposes. Kidnap-for-ransom groups may also sell their captives to terrorist groups, with victims potentially facing years in captivity.

Crime

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence and harassment, armed robbery and carjacking. Weapons are readily available throughout the country, which increases the likelihood of violent attacks.

Afghanistan is a transit country for weapons and drugs, where several criminal networks operate. There is also a significant local production and consumption of drugs, especially synthetic drugs. Weapon and illicit drug trafficking and use may lead to violent spillovers.

• Avoid showing signs of affluence or carrying large sums of money
• Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times

Demonstrations

Afghan de facto authorities have strongly repressed demonstrations, especially those challenging, criticizing or questioning their authority and/or rules. Protestors have been arrested, detained and physically attacked for their participation in demonstrations. Terrorist groups may also target large gatherings.

• Exercise caution
• Avoid all areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Landmines and unexploded ordnance 

Despite clearing efforts, landmines and unexploded ordnance from past wars still pose hazards throughout the country. 

• Be extremely vigilant, especially in remote areas   
• Stay on paved and main roads  
• Cross only at official border crossings   
• Pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of unexploded ordnance 

If you encounter unexploded ordnance: 

• do not get close to or touch them 
• move away immediately 
• contact the relevant authorities

Roads

Road safety

Drivers are aggressive, reckless and often drive at excessive speeds. They usually don’t respect traffic laws, and Afghan police do not enforce them.

Fatal accidents are common.

Road conditions

Road conditions are poor throughout the country due to:

• poor maintenance
• potholes
• unpaved roads
• pedestrians and bicycles on the road
• poorly maintained vehicles

Overland travel

Overland travel is extremely dangerous, including in Kabul. Terrorist and criminal groups often set up fake checkpoints and roadblocks with the intent of committing robbery, kidnapping or other violent attacks.

Border crossings may close on short notice and are at high risk of terrorist attacks and armed clashes.

Military and police forces are ineffective.

• Avoid undertaking overland travel unless you’re accompanied by vetted and armed security guards
• Always travel in groups

Women’s safety

Women are at a particularly higher risk of harassment and abuse, including from the authorities. The de facto authorities enforce specific rules and behaviors for women, including:

• travelling and going to public places only with a male guardian (mahram), such as a brother, father or husband
• covering from head-to-toe
• refraining from having their voices heard

Women will likely face challenges when trying to interact with authorities.

Women are expressly prohibited from many places, including:

• public parks
• amusement parks
• public baths
• Band-e-Amir National Park

Some regions enforce restrictions imposed on women and girls more strictly than others. Kandahar province is particularly strictly.

Afghan de facto authorities have detained women who have reported sexual assaults. Women must prove that the act was not consensual to avoid criminal charges under extramarital laws. Legal and medical services are not widely available for women in the event of sexual assault.

Advice for women travellers

Forced marriages

Forced marriage, involving foreigners occur. It sometimes occurs without the affected person’s prior knowledge or consent.

General information and advice about forced marriage

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Afghan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules. 

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter Afghanistan.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

You must obtain a visa to visit Afghanistan.

Tourist visa: Required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required

Regional travel

Afghan de facto authorities may deny you entry if your passport contains an Israeli visa or border stamp.

They may also deny you entry if your passport contains an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel, which would indicate that you’ve travelled to Israel.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections, like rabies and bird flu (avian influenza), can be spread from animals to humans. Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick, avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid eating undercooked meat.

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• have fewer sexual partners
• use protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Afghanistan. 

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Afghanistan. 

• Bring enough medication for your stay 
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions  
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage 

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities are below Canadian standards. Basic health care may be available in major cities, but it may be completely unavailable in rural areas. Health care for women is extremely limited or non-existent. Health professionals are limited in their practice with women who are not accompanied by their male guardian.

If available, health care facilities are not properly sanitized and lack medical supplies. You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury. However, it's rarely possible as very few companies are willing to service Afghanistan.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Illegal or restricted activities

The Afghan de facto authorities strictly enforce their interpretation of Islam. The legal system is run by Sharia law. The severity of its enforcement could vary from one province to another.

Extramarital relations

Extramarital relations, including sexual relations are illegal. Convicted offenders face severe punishment, such as:

• arrest and detention
• corporal punishment
• the death penalty

Restrictions imposed on women

The Afghan de facto authorities prohibit women from:

• travelling and going to public places, such as parks and restaurants, without a male guardian (mahram)
• looking at unrelated men’s body and/or face
• accessing higher education
• working outside their home
• working for non-governmental organizations and the United Nations
• having their voices heard in public

Women who don’t cover from head-to-toe are likely to be arrested and face jail sentences.

Restrictions imposed on men

Men must also abide by strict rules related to their dress and behaviour, including:

• wearing loose clothing covering their waist down to their knees
• growing a beard at least the width of a fist
• not looking at unrelated women’s body and/or face

If you don’t comply with local laws, you could face fines and imprisonment. Enforcers of the law may also arbitrarily determine a punishment that they consider appropriate.

If you travel to Afghanistan despite the advisory in effect:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion

Religious proselytism

Religious proselytism is illegal in Afghanistan. This includes preaching, possessing, or distributing religious literature or material. If you convert or try to convert someone from Islam to another religion, you could face harsh punishment, including the death sentence. Individuals practicing a religion other than Islam have been arbitrarily arrested, detained and victims of physical violence and abuse.

Blasphemy

You could be accused of blasphemy if you engage in religious activities that contradict or challenge the Afghan de facto authorities’ interpretation of Islamic teachings and values. Such acts are punishable by lengthy jail sentences and even the death sentence.

Photography

It’s illegal to take photographs of government buildings, military installations and personnel and palaces. Seek permission before taking photographs.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Afghan law explicitly prohibits same-sex sexual relations. This prohibition is being upheld by the Afghan de facto authorities. Homosexuality isn’t socially accepted.

2SLGBTQI+persons are discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. They could be arrested under several charges, including sodomy and illegal extramarital sexual relations

Those convicted face:

• fines
• imprisonment
• corporal punishment
• the death penalty

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Afghanistan.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Afghanistan.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Afghanistan, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Afghanistan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Afghanistan by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Afghanistan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Ramadan

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

Driving

You must carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency is the Afghan afghani (AFN).

Afghanistan is a cash-based economy. Credit cards are not widely accepted. U.S. dollars are accepted, but carry bills that are in good shape, as worn U.S. bills may not be accepted.

There are ATMs in major cities, but none or very few in rural areas.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Afghanistan. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information. 

Afghanistan is prone to various natural disasters, such as:

• earthquakes
• flooding and landslides
• sand and dust storms

Between May and September, temperatures can exceed 40°C, especially in the south, and sand and dust storms are frequent. During winter, temperatures can drop below 0°C, especially in high-altitude areas like Kabul.

Earthquakes

Afghanistan is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes occur frequently, especially in the northeastern provinces near the border with Pakistan. Landslides are possible in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur after the initial tremor. 

In the event of an earthquake:

• avoid the affected areas
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation

Earthquakes - What to do?

Flooding and landslides

The rainy season generally extends from March to May. Heavy rainfall may cause severe flooding and trigger landslides, especially in northern and eastern provinces.

Flooding and landslides can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure and several casualties. They can also disrupt essential services, such as:

• transportation
• power distribution
• water and food supply
• telecommunications networks
• emergency services
• medical care

If you are in or near the affected areas:

• exercise caution
• monitor local media and weather reports
• follow the instructions of emergency responders, including evacuation orders

Sand and dust storms

Sand and dust storms are common, especially in the southern provinces.

During a sand or dust storm :

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed