By invitation only

For those of you who might be considering a trip to Afghanistan, an invitation letter is a must. Without this, your not going to be able to enter the country. This letter forms the first part of obtaining a visa.

Allow me to explain how this works. This letter of invitation can come from either a independent Taliban registered licensed guide or a local registered tour operator. Im my case it was Hamza, a very experienced local guide based out of Kabal. Once you have selected the guide you wish to work with, they was issue with the letter which contains all of your details, passport info etc, etc. That is then presented to the Taliban to check, then its stamped and signed. Once its completed, your guide will email it to you, usually a week or so before your departure date, along with a copy of their guiding license. Both of these, along with your visa application paperwork can then be presented to the visa office you choose to use.

I chose the Consulate General of Afghanistan in Dubai for my visa application as the London Embassy closed some years ago. I’ll be posting more info on that process later to help with your travelling needs. RD

Please note: Visa HQ do NOT apply for a visa on your behalf. They offer advice only at a fee.