Starting January 14, 2026, new financial control rules will be implemented in Kyrgyzstan. Exchange offices are now required to request documents to verify the sources of clients' funds, including foreigners, during large or suspicious transactions. This decision by the National Bank aims to combat money laundering and requires exchange offices to store transaction data for five years.
While the country enjoys the New Year holidays, a group of high-profile officials went on a pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Among those spotted in Mecca were the head of the State National Security Committee Kamchybek Tashiev, the presidential chief of staff Kanaybek Tumanbaev, and former mufti Maksatbek aji Toktomushev, who were performing rituals.
Almambet Shykmamotov, the chairman of the Tax Service and one of the pilgrims, shared his thoughts on faith, emphasizing that true religion is an internal path to compassion and responsibility, not a way to show off.
President Sadyr Japarov once again justified the transition to 12 years of schooling as a global necessity. He noted that over the past 10 years, the country's population has increased by 500,000 people, and the new education system will allow graduates to integrate into the global labor market by 2029 without losing a year for preparation.
In Bishkek, at 24 Razzakov Street, intersecting with Chokmorov Street, another historical building has been demolished. At the beginning of January, activists noticed preparatory work, and urban defender Iskander Burkanov confirmed the information about the dismantling. The building was removed from the architectural heritage registry in 2018, and the process went "by the book": the residents of the building themselves approached the city hall requesting to recognize the object as emergency. One of the owners spent several years trying to remove the house from the list of heritage sites, after which he bought out all the apartments and became the sole owner of the plot.
- Starting January 21, 2026, citizens of Kyrgyzstan applying for non-immigrant visas to the USA in categories B-1 (business trips) and B-2 (tourism) will be required to pay a refundable deposit ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. This measure, published on the website of the U.S. Department of State, is related to frequent violations of stay periods on B-1/B-2 visas.
In response, the Deputy Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Edil Baisalov stated: “We must initiate a review of the visa-free regime for U.S. citizens after the introduction of the new visa requirements by the State Department.” He emphasized that visa policy is a matter of mutual respect and parity. “If such high barriers are set for our citizens, we cannot pretend that nothing has happened,” he noted.
About interesting events and important news from journalists 24.kg — in the review “Week-24”.
Why are cafes and restaurants in Bishkek so crowded?
Some officials in Kyrgyzstan often cite an example when discussing the difficult economic situation: if everything is so bad, then why are there constant traffic jams in Bishkek and no free seats in cafes? Perhaps the answer lies in the “lipstick effect” hypothesis proposed by American scholar Juliet Schor.
Traffic jams, construction, and scandals: events in Bishkek in 2025
The past year was record-breaking for road repairs and large-scale construction projects in Bishkek, accompanied by traffic jams, the demolition of fences, and loud scandals. The city underwent changes that affected the lives of many residents. Let’s recall the key events of 2025 that took place in the capital:
How to quickly learn Kyrgyz: tips from Victoria Krinwald
Victoria Krinwald is a German national who has been living in Kyrgyzstan for 17 years. She teaches the Kyrgyz language using her personal methodology. Currently, Victoria is studying at the Faculty of Kyrgyz Philology and continues to develop her program. She shared with 24.kg methods that will help learn the state language faster.
How rescue dogs search for people in Kyrgyzstan
In Kyrgyzstan, search operations often start too late, when the trails have already been lost. But in situations where technology and human eyes are powerless, dogs from the “Rescuer” canine center come to the rescue. In an interview with 24.kg, volunteers talked about the legendary Barkhan, a mission conducted in Turkey after the earthquake, the search for children, and why they have to get to the call site by taxi.
Baktybek Ibykeev: Kyrgyz maestro of Russian romance
The People's Artist of the Kyrgyz Republic, opera singer Baktybek Ibykeev, despite his significant stage experience and talent, speaks modestly about himself. However, when it comes to Russian romances and works from the war years, he comes alive, and his soul fills with energy. The artist not only tells but also sings, showing his love for the profession.
How to return to work after the New Year?
The long-awaited New Year vacation is coming to an end, and many are afraid to think about returning to work. Saying goodbye to fun and returning to routine can cause stress. But is it really that difficult? Are there any secrets that can help you return to work rested and full of energy? 24.kg turned to cardiologist Samara Su laymanova for advice on how to return to an active rhythm of life after the holidays without extra effort.
Top 5 peaks near Bishkek for beginners
Hiking in Kyrgyzstan is becoming increasingly popular. We have many places for hiking. One of the main directions is climbing mountain peaks. You don’t need to be a professional climber for this — just comfortable shoes and a desire to climb are enough. The editorial team of 24.kg has prepared a list of five peaks in the vicinity of Bishkek that can be conquered without special training.
Tips for beginner skiers in Kyrgyzstan
A new ski season is starting in Kyrgyzstan. Resorts are opening, and outdoor enthusiasts are preparing their skis and snowboards. If you are going to a ski resort for the first time, be sure to read our material. Experienced skiers and instructors shared with 24.kg rules that will help you fall in love with skiing.
The loss of significant figures in Kyrgyzstan in 2025
Unfortunately, life sometimes does not spare great figures of culture, science, sports, and politics. Kyrgyzstan also suffered the loss of significant figures in 2025. The editorial team of 24.kg invites you to remember those we lost.
Celebrities who passed away in 2025
In 2025, many outstanding individuals who left their mark in history passed away. Among them are artists, politicians, cosmonauts, and television presenters, whose contributions are invaluable. Let’s remember their names.
Christmas and its celebration in Kyrgyzstan
On January 7, Orthodox Christians in Kyrgyzstan celebrated Christmas — a significant holiday that is an official day off in the country and marks the end of a 40-day fast and January holidays.
Christmas divination: traditions and rituals
On Christmas and during the Holy Nights, one can perform divinations to learn about the future or love. The best time for this is the Holy Nights, which last from Christmas (January 7) to Epiphany (January 19). These two weeks are considered sacred for making wishes and conducting rituals.
Lake Kel-Suu: photos and videos from readers
The “Moments of Life” section is created thanks to our readers 24.kg, who are passionate about travel and photography in Kyrgyzstan. In this issue, we will stroll through November Bishkek, visit the lakes of Kosh-Kara and Kel-Suu, and finish our tour in the south of the republic.
The return of “The Night Manager” and new series
In the first full week of January 2026 (from January 5 to 11), streaming platforms and TV channels will present new seasons of popular crime dramas and thrillers. The spotlight will be on the return of Tom Hiddleston in the new season of “The Night Manager,” the finale of anti-corruption investigations in “Saint Pierre,” and the expansion of anime universes.
