Get Your Turkmenistan Visa Online
Fast visa processing for one of Central Asia's most mysterious destinations — explore the Gates of Hell and ancient Merv
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Turkmenistan Visa
Simple 4-step process — visa approval typically within 10-15 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal details, passport information, and detailed travel itinerary. Turkmenistan requires specific travel plans, so our form guides you through providing the necessary destination and accommodation details for your Letter of Invitation.
2
Upload your documents
Submit a clear scan of your passport bio page (valid for at least 6 months beyond entry), a recent passport-sized photograph meeting Turkmen specifications, and your confirmed travel itinerary. Our document specialists ensure everything meets Turkmenistan State Migration Service requirements.
3
We process your invitation letter
Your application is submitted to obtain the required Letter of Invitation (LOI) from an authorized Turkmen travel agency. We coordinate with local partners and monitor the approval process, keeping you informed via email updates throughout.
4
Receive your visa approval
Once your LOI is approved, you can collect your visa from a Turkmenistan embassy or obtain a visa on arrival at designated entry points. We provide all necessary documentation and clear instructions for the final visa collection process.
Turkmenistan Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 30 days
Standard tourist visa requiring Letter of Invitation from authorized agency
Transit Visa
Up to 5 days
For travelers passing through Turkmenistan to another destination
Business Visa
Up to 30 days
For commercial activities with sponsorship from Turkmen organization
Visa on Arrival
Up to 10 days
Available at Ashgabat airport with pre-approved invitation letter
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Letter of Invitation from registered Turkmen travel agency
- Confirmed flight tickets and detailed travel itinerary
- Pre-booked accommodation through authorized agency
- Two passport photos 3.5x4.5cm with white background
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay
Visa Policy
Turkmenistan maintains one of the world's most restrictive visa policies, making it both a challenging and rewarding destination for adventurous travelers. Unlike most countries, independent travel is severely limited, and nearly all visitors must travel with a registered tour operator or have official business sponsorship.
Tourist Visa Requirements
All tourist visitors to Turkmenistan require a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from an authorized Turkmen travel agency before applying for a visa. This invitation must be approved by the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan. The LOI specifies your exact travel dates, itinerary, and accommodations, and visitors are expected to follow this pre-approved plan.
Transit Visa Option
Travelers crossing Turkmenistan overland between neighboring countries can apply for a transit visa valid for up to 5 days. Transit visas are easier to obtain than tourist visas and do not require a tour guide, though you must have valid visas for your destination country and stick to a specified route.
Business and Special Visas
Business Visa Requirements
Business visitors require sponsorship from a registered Turkmen company or organization. The sponsoring entity must apply for your Letter of Invitation through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Business visas allow for meetings, negotiations, and commercial activities but require detailed documentation of your business purpose.
Work and Residence Permits
Long-term employment in Turkmenistan requires a work permit obtained by your employer, followed by a work visa application. The process involves multiple government agencies and typically takes several months. Foreign workers must register with local authorities within three days of arrival.
Diplomatic and Official Visas
Government officials, diplomats, and those on official missions require appropriate diplomatic or official visas arranged through government channels. These visas follow separate procedures from tourist and business applications.
Application Process and Fees
Step-by-Step Application Process
Obtaining a Turkmenistan visa involves multiple stages. First, contact an authorized Turkmen travel agency to arrange your tour and Letter of Invitation. Second, the agency submits your LOI request to the State Migration Service, which typically takes 10-20 business days for approval. Third, once approved, you receive a reference number to present at a Turkmenistan embassy or use for visa on arrival.
Visa Fees
Turkmenistan visa fees vary by nationality due to reciprocal arrangements. Standard tourist visa fees range from $35-155 USD depending on your passport. Transit visas typically cost $55-85 USD. Additional charges apply for the Letter of Invitation processing and tour services. Visa on arrival may incur a small surcharge.
Processing Times
LOI approval takes 10-20 business days on average. Embassy visa processing adds another 5-10 business days. We recommend starting your application at least 6 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for potential delays.
Entry Points and Travel Tips
Points of Entry
Most visitors arrive at Ashgabat International Airport, the main gateway offering visa on arrival services for those with pre-approved LOIs. Land border crossings exist with Iran (Bajgiran), Uzbekistan (Farap), Kazakhstan, and Afghanistan, though these may have limited operating hours and require advance coordination with your travel agency.
Registration Requirements
All foreign visitors must register with OVIR (Office of Visas and Registration) within three days of arrival. Your hotel or tour agency typically handles this registration. Failure to register can result in fines and difficulties when departing the country.
Travel Restrictions
Certain areas of Turkmenistan, particularly border regions and some Caspian Sea zones, require special permits. Photography of government buildings, military installations, and airports is strictly prohibited. Always travel with your passport and visa, as police checks are common.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather with temperatures around 20-30 degrees Celsius. Summer brings extreme heat exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in the Karakum Desert, while winters can be cold with occasional snow.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
200+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.5Customer rating
96%Approval rate
"Getting a Turkmenistan visa seemed impossible until I found DoVisa. They guided me through the entire LOI process and my application was approved without any issues."
"The Darvaza Crater was on my bucket list for years. DoVisa made the complicated visa process manageable. Excellent communication throughout."
"Process took longer than expected but DoVisa kept me informed at every step. Their partnership with local agencies made all the difference."
"Fantastic service for one of the hardest visas to get. The team really knows Turkmenistan's requirements inside and out."
"Applied for a transit visa to cross from Uzbekistan to Iran. DoVisa handled everything smoothly. Would recommend for Central Asia trips."
"Third country I have used DoVisa for. Their Turkmenistan expertise is unmatched. LOI approved in 12 days which is excellent."
"Very professional service. They explained the strict requirements clearly and my documents were perfect on the first submission."
"Good experience overall. The visa process for Turkmenistan is genuinely difficult but DoVisa made it as smooth as possible."
"Incredible support team. They even helped coordinate with my tour agency in Ashgabat. The Gates of Hell was worth every effort!"
Turkmenistan Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Turkmenistan?
Yes, almost all nationalities require a visa to enter Turkmenistan. Unlike many countries, there are no visa-free arrangements for tourism. The only exception is a limited visa-free transit for citizens of some countries under specific conditions. All tourist visitors must obtain a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from an authorized Turkmen travel agency before applying for a visa, making Turkmenistan one of the most difficult countries to visit independently.
What is the Letter of Invitation and why do I need it?
The Letter of Invitation (LOI) is a mandatory document required before you can apply for a Turkmenistan tourist visa. It must be issued by a travel agency registered with the Turkmenistan State Migration Service. The LOI confirms your tour arrangements, including your exact itinerary, accommodation, and the agency responsible for your visit. Without an approved LOI, you cannot obtain a tourist visa. The LOI process typically takes 10-20 business days and forms the foundation of your visa application.
Can I travel independently in Turkmenistan?
Independent travel in Turkmenistan is extremely restricted. Tourist visa holders must travel with a registered guide or tour group for most of their visit. The only exception is the transit visa, which allows independent travel along a specified route for up to 5 days. Even transit travelers face restrictions and must stick to approved routes. This controlled tourism approach means you must book through an authorized agency and follow a pre-approved itinerary.
What documents are required for a Turkmenistan tourist visa?
Tourist visa applications require: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages; Completed visa application form; Two passport photographs (3.5x4.5cm, white background); Approved Letter of Invitation with reference number from the State Migration Service; Confirmed travel itinerary through your tour agency; Proof of accommodation bookings; Travel insurance covering medical expenses; and the applicable visa fee. Business visa applicants need additional company documentation and sponsorship letters.
How long does it take to get a Turkmenistan visa?
The complete process typically takes 4-6 weeks. The Letter of Invitation approval takes 10-20 business days through the State Migration Service. Once the LOI is approved, embassy visa processing adds another 5-10 business days. We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6-8 weeks before your intended travel date to account for potential delays or additional document requests. Transit visas may be processed faster, typically within 5-10 business days.
What is a Turkmenistan transit visa?
A transit visa allows travelers to cross Turkmenistan overland when traveling between neighboring countries. Transit visas are valid for up to 5 days and are easier to obtain than tourist visas because they do not require a tour guide or agency sponsorship. You must have valid visas for your entry and exit countries, a clear travel route, and proof of onward transportation. Transit visas are popular with overland travelers on the Silk Road route between Uzbekistan and Iran.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Turkmenistan?
Yes, visa on arrival is available at Ashgabat International Airport, but only if you have a pre-approved Letter of Invitation with a reference number. You cannot simply arrive and expect to receive a visa. The visa on arrival process is convenient for those who could not visit a Turkmenistan embassy in their home country. You will need your LOI reference number, passport, photographs, and visa fee in cash (USD accepted). Processing at the airport typically takes 30-60 minutes.
How much does a Turkmenistan visa cost?
Visa fees vary significantly by nationality due to reciprocal arrangements. Standard tourist visa fees range from $35 to $155 USD. Transit visas typically cost $55-85 USD. In addition to government visa fees, you must pay for the Letter of Invitation processing through your travel agency, which usually costs $30-60 USD. Tour packages often include LOI fees. Visa on arrival may have a small surcharge. Some nationalities face higher fees, so check specific requirements for your passport.
What are the main attractions in Turkmenistan?
Turkmenistan offers unique attractions found nowhere else. The Darvaza Gas Crater (Gates of Hell) is a flaming natural gas crater burning since 1971 in the Karakum Desert. Ashgabat, the capital, features surreal white marble architecture and golden statues. Ancient Merv is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Silk Road's greatest cities. Konye-Urgench has remarkable medieval Islamic architecture. The Yangykala Canyon offers stunning pink and red rock formations. Turkmenistan's isolation has preserved these sites remarkably well.
Can I extend my Turkmenistan visa?
Visa extensions are possible but difficult to obtain in Turkmenistan. You must apply through OVIR (Office of Visas and Registration) before your current visa expires. Extensions require justification, updated tour arrangements through your agency, and approval from multiple government departments. The process can take several days and is not guaranteed. If you need more time, it is often easier to exit and re-enter with a new visa. Always plan your visa validity carefully to match your intended stay.
What is OVIR registration and is it required?
OVIR registration is mandatory for all foreign visitors staying more than three days in Turkmenistan. OVIR (Otdel Viz i Registratsii) is the Office of Visas and Registration. Your hotel or tour agency will typically handle this registration automatically. You receive a registration slip that you must keep with your passport and present upon departure. Failure to register can result in fines, detention, or denial of exit. Always confirm that your accommodation has completed your registration.
What happens if my Turkmenistan visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections do occur, particularly if documentation is incomplete or the travel itinerary raises concerns. If your LOI is rejected, your travel agency may be able to resubmit with additional information. DoVisa offers assistance in reviewing your application to minimize rejection risk. Common rejection reasons include incomplete documentation, unclear travel purpose, or issues with the sponsoring agency. We work closely with authorized Turkmen partners to ensure applications meet all requirements before submission.
Is Turkmenistan safe for tourists?
Turkmenistan is generally safe for tourists with very low crime rates. The authoritarian government maintains strict control, which contributes to public safety. However, travelers should be aware of photography restrictions — never photograph government buildings, military sites, or airports. Police checks are common, so always carry your passport and registration documents. Some areas near borders require special permits. Follow your guide's instructions and respect local customs. The main challenges are bureaucratic rather than safety-related.
What currency is used in Turkmenistan?
The official currency is the Turkmen Manat (TMT). Turkmenistan operates a dual exchange rate system, with an official rate and a black market rate that differs significantly. ATMs are rare and international credit cards are not widely accepted. Bring clean, new USD bills for exchange at official banks — worn or marked bills may be rejected. Your tour agency can assist with currency exchange. Budget carefully as accessing additional funds in-country is difficult.
What is the best time to visit Turkmenistan?
The best times to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are moderate, ranging from 20-30 degrees Celsius. Summer (June-August) brings extreme heat exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in the Karakum Desert, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. Winter (December-February) is cold with temperatures dropping below freezing, though snow is rare. For the Darvaza Crater, spring and autumn offer the best camping conditions, while the flames are impressive year-round.
Can I visit other Central Asian countries from Turkmenistan?
Yes, Turkmenistan shares borders with Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Iran, and Afghanistan. The most popular overland routes connect to Uzbekistan via the Farap border crossing and to Iran via Bajgiran. Each country has separate visa requirements. Transit visas are ideal for overland travelers passing through Turkmenistan on Silk Road journeys. DoVisa can assist with visa applications for multiple Central Asian countries. Note that the Afghanistan border is not recommended for tourism due to security concerns.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help 24/7Ready to Explore Turkmenistan?
Discover the Gates of Hell, ancient Silk Road cities, and the world's most mysterious nation
Apply NowOr apply via our mobile app
