Location: Nationwide
Event: The opposition party Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan (DVK or DCK), which has previously been banned the Kazakhstani government, is calling for nationwide demonstrations on January 19, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. for the stated goal to “demand freedom for all political prisoners and the end of torture.”
A heightened security presence and localized transport disruptions, as well as internet network outages are likely in the vicinity of the protests, should they materialize.
Non-sanctioned demonstrations can sometimes result in mass arrests. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests.
The Travel Advisory for Kazakhstan is level 4 “Do Not Travel” due to recent civil unrest and COVID-19. U.S. citizens are reminded that a nationwide curfew remains in place in Kazakhstan, including Almaty, from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. In other cities, an extended curfew may begin as early as 7 p.m. Please check carefully for restrictions in your locale.
The airport in Almaty has reopened with 14 flights per week to transit points in Istanbul and Frankfurt. U.S. citizens are encouraged to check with their air carrier for updates on flight timing and schedules. Air Astana advises that its service has been fully restored to and from Nur-Sultan. We will continue to advise U.S. citizens as further commercial air travel options become available from Almaty.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid demonstrations
- Avoid crowds.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Monitor local media for updates.
For Assistance: The U.S. Embassy is located at Rakhymzhan Koskharbayev Ave., No. 3, Nur-Sultan 010010. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency after-hours number for the U.S. Embassy is +7 7172 70 22 00.
The U.S. Consulate General Almaty has resumed routine consular services as of January 18. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency after-hours number for the U.S. Consulate General is +8 777 0072359.
For further information about security in Kazakhstan:
- U.S. Embassy Nur-Sultan – +7 (7172) 70-21-00
- U.S. Consulate Almaty – +7 (7272) 50-76-12/17
- Email: usakz@state.gov
- Department of State – Consular Affairs
- 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Kazakhstan Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts
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