Living in Kandahar as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Expats planning to stay in Kandahar for more than 90 days are required to obtain a temporary resident permit (TRP) from the Afghan Ministry of Economy. This permit costs around 40,000 AFN ($500 USD) and is valid for six months. Some nationalities may also require a visa for entry into Afghanistan, which can be obtained from Afghan embassies or diplomatic missions.

Language resources

Afghan Persian (Dari) and Pashto are the most commonly spoken languages in Kandahar. It's recommended that expats learn some basic phrases and vocabulary in these languages to communicate with locals and make daily life easier. There are a number of language courses and language exchange programs available in Kandahar, such as the Afghan-German Cooperation program and the British Council.

Housing

Accommodation options for expats in Kandahar range from shared rooms in local housing compounds to fully-furnished apartments and villas. The cost of housing varies widely depending on the area and standard of accommodation. For example, a room in a shared house may cost around 4,000 AFN ($50 USD) per month, while a one-bedroom apartment can range from 12,000 to 25,000 AFN ($150 to $310 USD) per month. Two-bedroom apartments typically start at around 18,000 AFN ($225 USD) per month, and a three-bedroom house or villa can cost between 25,000 to 75,000 AFN ($310 to $935 USD) per month.

Groceries

The cost of groceries in Kandahar varies depending on the type and quantity of products. A basic grocery basket consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products can cost between 2,500 to 3,500 AFN ($31 to $44 USD) per week for a single person.

Transportation

Taxis, private cars, and passenger taxis are the most common modes of transportation in Kandahar. The cost of taxis and cars depends on the type of vehicle and the distance being covered. For example, a ride in a Tolla taxi might cost between 500 to 1000 AFN ($6 to $12 USD) within the city center, while longer journeys can cost considerably more. Public transportation options such as trains and buses are limited, but prices are expected to reduce with the implementation of new public transportation systems.

Kandahar experiences a hot desert climate, with scorching summers and mild winters. Temperatures soar above 40°C in summer, while winters are cool but bright, averaging 11°C. Kandahar's arid desert climate means it's generally dry and windy, with very little rainfall throughout the year.

The job market in Kandahar is diverse, with opportunities in industries such as agriculture, minerals, manufacturing, construction, and finance. Some of the city's key employers include the Government of Afghanistan, Kandahar University, and a growing number of international organizations, who are attracted by the city's strategic geographic location.

Healthcare in Kandahar is provided by both public and private institutions. The Kandahar Hospital is a trusted public facility, offering a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgeries, and specialized treatments. Additionally, there are numerous private clinics and hospitals located throughout the city, such as the Balkh Clinic and the Khyber Clinic.

Getting around Kandahar is predominantly by car, which can be rented or arranged via taxi services such as Karwaii or Pashto Radio. Other transportation options include shared passenger taxis called Tollas, which are a popular and affordable way to travel short distances within the city. While public transportation facilities such as buses and trains are limited, plans for developing a modern railway linking Kandahar to cities such as Herat and Mashhad, Iran, are currently underway.

While the security situation in Afghanistan is unpredictable, Kandahar has recently seen a significant decrease in violence. Many areas of the city are considered relatively safe for expats, particularly the eastern and northern parts. However, it's always crucial to remain cautious and aware of your surroundings. Expatriates should consult local authorities and embassy guidance before traveling to different parts of the city.