Visa to Turkmenistan

Visa to Turkmenistan: Full details

Turkmenistan is one of the most closed countries in the world with a strict visa policy. For most foreign citizens, entry to the country requires a visa. The only exceptions are citizens of some neighboring countries who can enter without a visa under bilateral agreements.

Visa-free regime

Turkmenistan has limited visa-free travel arrangements:

1. Visa-free entry for up to 30 days:
   • For citizens of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan who can enter without a visa on the basis of bilateral agreements.
2. Visa-free transit:
   • In some cases, if you are flying through Turkmenistan and do not leave the transit area of the airport.

For all other categories of citizens, a visa is required.

Types of visas

1. Tourist visa

• It is intended for travelers who want to visit Turkmenistan for tourism purposes.
• Validity period: up to 30 days (can be extended in special cases).
• An invitation from a registered travel company is required.

2. Business visa

• For business-related trips, negotiations, and conferences.
• Validity period: from 30 days to 1 year.
• An official invitation from a company in Turkmenistan is required.

3. Work visa

• For foreigners planning to work in Turkmenistan.
• It is issued only if you have an employment contract and a work permit.

4. Study visa

• For foreign students enrolled in Turkmen universities.
• Documents from the educational institution are required.

5. Transit visa

• For transit through the territory of Turkmenistan.
• Validity period: up to 5 days.
• Route confirmation is required (for example, air tickets).

6. Long-term visa

• For foreigners who have relatives in Turkmenistan, or for those who permanently reside in the country.

Visa application process

A visa to Turkmenistan is issued through the country's consulate or embassy. There is no electronic visa or registration on arrival at the airport.

Steps to get a visa

1. Receiving an invitation:
   • Most visas require invitation from the host partyregistered with the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan.
   • The invitation can be from a travel company, an employer, or a private individual.
2. Submitting an application:
   • Please contact the Consulate of Turkmenistan in your country or the nearest region.
   • Fill out the visa application form.
3. Documents:
   • International passport (valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry).
   • A copy of your passport.
   • One or two photos (3.5 x 4.5 cm).
   • Invitation (original or copy).
   • Hotel booking confirmation (for tourist visa).
   • Round-trip tickets.
   • Payment of consular fee.
4. Waiting for a solution:
   • Processing time: 10-20 business days (depending on the type of visa).
5. Obtaining a visa:
   • The visa will be pasted into your passport.

Consular fees

The cost of a visa depends on the type and duration of its validity:

• Tourist visa:
  • One-time payment (up to 10 days): $35 - $45.
  • One-time payment (up to 30 days): $45 - $75.
• Business and work visa requirements:
  • From $70 to $200 (depending on the multiplicity and expiration date).
• Transit visa:
  • Single payment: $20 - $30.
  • Double price: $40 - $50.

Invitation requirements

• For a tourist visa:
  • The invitation must be issued through a registered travel agency in Turkmenistan. It submits a request to the State Migration Service, which approves the invitation.
• For a business visa:
  • The inviting company in Turkmenistan must officially register the invitation.
• For a private visit:
  • A relative or acquaintance in Turkmenistan issues an invitation through the migration service.

Registration in Turkmenistan

1. Mandatory registration:
   • All foreigners must register within 3 business days of arrival.
2. How to register:
   • Contact the migration service at your place of residence.
   • If you are staying in a hotel, the hotel staff usually handles the check-in process.
3. Documents for registration:
   • Passport.
   • Migration card.
   • Visa application form.
4. Penalty for not registering:
   • Fines and possible expulsion from the country.

Visa extension

1. Where to apply:
   • To the Migration Service of Turkmenistan.
2. Extension period:
   • The visa can be extended for up to 30 days, depending on the type of visa.
3. Required documents:
   • Passport with a valid visa.
   • Application for renewal.
   • Confirmation of the purpose of the extension (for example, a letter from your employer or travel company).

Important nuances

1. Passport control:
   • When crossing the border of Turkmenistan, be sure to provide a migration card.
2. Photo:
   • Always carry spare photos with you, as they may be required for registration or visa renewal.
3. Strict rules:
   • Turkmenistan is known for its strict migration rules. Follow all instructions carefully.

Contacts for obtaining a visa

1. Embassies and Consulates of Turkmenistan:
   • Find the nearest diplomatic mission on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.
2. Travel companies:
   • To apply for a tourist visa, contact licensed agencies in Turkmenistan.
3. State Migration Service of Turkmenistan:
   • Official website: migration.gov.tm.

Useful tips

1. Prepare in advance:
   • Visa processing takes time. Please submit your application at least one month before your trip.
2. Contact your agency:
   • If you are traveling as a tourist, it is best to use the services of a licensed travel agency.
3. Check the current rules:
   • The visa regime policy of Turkmenistan may change. Check up-to-date information before traveling.

Turkmenistan is a country that requires careful preparation for the trip. Despite the strict visa regulations, traveling to this mysterious country will give you a unique experience and an unforgettable experience!