Kazakhstan - Consular Information Sheet February 16, 1994 Country Description: Kazakhstan is a nation undergoing profound political and economic change. It is a new independent state still in the process of stabilizing its relations with neighboring countries. Political activities have been peaceful. Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available. Internal air travel generally operates but suffers disruptions. Entry Requirements: A passport and visa are required. Visas are issued at the Kazakhstan Embassy (on the basis of a letter of invitation from a Kazakhstani organization) and at the Almaty Airport. Visas issued at the airport without a letter of invitation are only valid for three days. Kazakhstan immigration officials consider visas for Russia, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Belarus to be valid for transit (up to three days) through Kazakhstan. U.S. citizens can contact the Kazakhstan Embassy, 3421 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington D.C. 20007, telephone (202) 333-4507 for current information on visa requirements. Medical Facilities: Medical care in Kazakhstan is limited. There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics. Incidence of infectious diseases is generally higher than in the U.S., and immunizations are unavailable. Drinking only boiled or bottled water will help guard against cholera, which has been reported. Elderly travelers and those with existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate medical facilities. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the area. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including medical evacuation coverage, has proved to be useful. Further information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers' hotline, tel: (404) 332-4559. Crime Information: Common street crime has increased, especially at night, and some robbery victims have been assaulted. Robbers congregate around hotels that cater to foreigners. Walking in a group or utilizing an official metered taxi with door to door service is the best way to traverse the cities after sunset. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Russia." They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Currency Regulations: Kazakhstan is a cash only economy. Traveler's checks and credit cards are rarely accepted. Kazakhstan has its own currency, the ten'ge. U.S. dollars can be changed only at official exchange offices or in banks. Anyone caught dealing on the black market can expect harsh punishment. Drug Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. Registration: Americans who register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security within Kazakhstan. Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is located at 99/97A Furmanova Street, Telephone (7-3272) 63-24-26. No. 94-012 This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993 to add information on visas, include details on street crime and infectious diseases, and to note the danger of changing U.S. dollars on the black market.