Turkmenistan Visa and Passport Requirements
| Passport required | Return ticket required | Visa Required | |
|---|---|---|---|
| British | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Australian | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Canadian | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USA | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| EU | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Passports
All visitors to Turkmenistan must hold a valid passport with at least six months' validity beyond the intended date of entry and at least one blank page for visa stamps. Passports should be in good condition, as damaged or heavily worn documents may be refused entry.
Visas
Turkmenistan has one of the most restrictive visa regimes in the region, and almost all foreign nationals require a visa to enter the country.
Citizens of the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and all EU member states must obtain a visa in advance, usually supported by an official letter of invitation approved by Turkmen authorities.
Types and Cost
Tourist visas are usually issued for short stays, commonly between 5 and 10 days, though longer durations may be granted in some cases. A transit visa is also available for travellers passing through Turkmenistan en route to another country, typically valid for up to 5 days and without the requirement of a tour guide, although approval is not guaranteed.
Visa fees vary by nationality, visa type, and length of stay, but visitors should expect to pay approximately USD $20–$75 for a standard tourist visa, with additional charges for processing, invitation letters, or expedited services. Transit visas are generally cheaper. Payment is often required in cash, usually in US dollars.
Transit
A transit visa is possible, but approval is not guaranteed.
Application to
Travellers are advised to contact a licensed Turkmen travel agency as the first step in the visa application process, as an approved letter of invitation is normally required before a visa can be issued.
Working days
Visa processing times vary, but applications typically take between 2 and 4 weeks once the letter of invitation has been approved.
Compulsary Registration
If you plan to stay in Turkmenistan for more than three working days, you are required to register with the State Migration Service within three days of arrival. This registration is usually handled by your hotel or sponsoring organisation, but you should confirm this in advance and check what documents they will need from you.
Registration typically requires your passport, two passport-size photographs, and written confirmation of your accommodation from your sponsor.
This page reflects our understanding of current rules for the most common types of travel to the said country. However, please note that each authority sets and forces entry rules, hence we strongly recommend that you verify critical information with the relevant embassy before travel.