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Moving to Tajikistan | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Tajikistan

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Dec 28, 2023

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Tajikistan for its low cost of living, stunning natural beauty, and unique culture. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Tajikistan are Dushanbe, Khujand, and Khorog. People looking for a place to live in Tajikistan can search online for rental listings, contact local real estate agents, or ask around in the expat community.

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What do I need to know before moving to Tajikistan?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Tajikistan, they said:

"Tajikistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, bordered by Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and China. Expats should be aware that the country is still recovering from a civil war that ended in 1997, and that the infrastructure is still developing. Expats should also be aware that the official language is Tajik, although Russian is widely spoken. It is important to note that the country is predominantly Muslim, and that visitors should respect local customs and traditions. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Tajikistan is relatively low, and that the country offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. Finally, expats should be aware that the visa process can be complicated, and that they should research the requirements before attempting to move to Tajikistan," remarked one expat in Tajikistan.

How do I find a place to live in Tajikistan?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One way to find a place to live in Tajikistan is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Expat.com, Nestpick, and Spotahome offer a variety of rental options in Tajikistan. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on local classifieds websites such as Tajikistan.tj and Tajikistan.net. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Tajikistan. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Tajikistan for recommendations," explained one expat living in Tajikistan.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Tajikistan?

"Expat homes and apartments in Tajikistan tend to be modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, internet access, and satellite television. Many expats choose to live in larger cities such as Dushanbe, where there is a greater selection of housing options. Expat apartments often come with a balcony or terrace, providing a great view of the city. Furnishings are usually modern and comfortable, with a range of amenities such as washing machines, dishwashers, and microwaves. Security is usually good, with many buildings having 24-hour guards and CCTV cameras," explained one expat living in Tajikistan.

What is the average cost of housing in Tajikistan?

If you are thinking about moving to Tajikistan, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Tajikistan is relatively low compared to other countries. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the capital city of Dushanbe can range from around $100 to $200 per month, while rent for a three-bedroom apartment can range from around $200 to $400 per month. Outside of the capital, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from around $50 to $100 per month, while rent for a three-bedroom apartment can range from around $100 to $200 per month," said one expat who made the move to Tajikistan.

Should I buy or rent a home in Tajikistan?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Tajikistan, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Tajikistan can be a great investment, as the country is rapidly developing and property prices are still relatively low. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of amenities and services. Renting a home in Tajikistan can be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to live in the area without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility if you are unsure of how long you will be staying in the country," commented one expat who made the move to Tajikistan.

What should I pack when moving to Tajikistan?

We asked people living in Tajikistan to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Tajikistan, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best for the hot summers, while warm layers are essential for the cold winters. It is also important to bring any necessary medications, as well as any important documents such as passports and visas. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items from home to make the transition easier, such as photos, books, and other personal items. Finally, it is important to bring a reliable form of communication, such as a cell phone or laptop, to stay connected with family and friends," replied a member in Tajikistan.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tajikistan?

We asked people in Tajikistan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Tajikistan. It is considered impolite to show public displays of affection, so it is best to avoid kissing or hugging in public. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to respect religious customs, such as avoiding eating pork or drinking alcohol in public. It is also important to be aware of local customs when it comes to greetings, as it is considered rude to shake hands with the opposite gender. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about the country or its people," explained one expat living in Tajikistan.

Why do people move to Tajikistan?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Tajikistan, they responded:

"Tajikistan offers expats a unique cultural experience, with its diverse population and rich history. The country is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with majestic mountains, lush valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. Expats can also benefit from the low cost of living in Tajikistan, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the country is home to a vibrant expat community, providing a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends," remarked one expat in Tajikistan.

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How are healthcare services Tajikistan?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tajikistan, they replied:

"Tajikistan has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Tajikistan is generally considered to be low, with limited access to modern medical equipment and medicines. Foreign residents in Tajikistan have limited access to the public healthcare system, and most expats rely on private healthcare services. Expats in Tajikistan may use the public healthcare system for basic medical services, but they are not eligible for the same level of care as citizens. Private healthcare services are generally more expensive, but they offer a higher quality of care," commented one expat living in Tajikistan.

What are medical services in Tajikistan like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tajikistan, they replied:

"Tajikistan has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer primary care services such as diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses, vaccinations, and preventive health care. Specialized medical services such as surgery, obstetrics, and gynecology are also available in some of the larger hospitals. In addition, there are a number of private medical facilities that offer more advanced medical services," wrote one expat living in Tajikistan.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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