Visa, Border & Payment Info

Visa to Turkmenistan

For most foreign nationals, a visa is required to visit Turkmenistan. In most cases, a tourist visa is issued on the basis of a Letter of Invitation (LOI), which must be approved by the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan through a licensed local travel company.

What is a Letter of Invitation (LOI)?

A Letter of Invitation is the main document required for obtaining a tourist visa to Turkmenistan. For tourist travel, the application for the LOI is submitted through a licensed tour operator. This is why trips to Turkmenistan are usually arranged together with a confirmed itinerary and travel services.

Once the Letter of Invitation is approved, the traveler can proceed with the visa process. Depending on the traveler’s nationality, travel route, and point of entry, the visa may be obtained either at a Turkmen embassy or consulate, or in some cases upon arrival at the border or at the airport, if this has been arranged in advance.

Documents Usually Required for the LOI Application

• A clear passport scan
• A passport-size photo
• Confirmed travel dates
• Confirmed travel itinerary
• Filled out application form
• In some cases, additional documents may be requested depending on the traveler’s nationality, profession, or the specifics of the trip.

Processing Time

The processing time for a Letter of Invitation may vary depending on the season and the workload of the migration authorities. In most cases, it takes around 10–15 working days. For this reason, we always recommend applying well in advance.

Our Assistance

We assist our guests at every stage of the visa process: from checking documents and preparing the LOI application to explaining each next step in detail. Our goal is to make your preparation for visiting Turkmenistan smooth, clear, and stress-free.

Border Process in Turkmenistan

Crossing the border into Turkmenistan is usually straightforward when all travel documents have been prepared in advance. For most travelers, the process begins with an approved Letter of Invitation (LOI) and a valid passport.

• Step 1: Arrival at the Border Checkpoint. Border officers check the passport, visa documentation or LOI approval, and other supporting travel documents. It is important that all documents match the confirmed itinerary and personal details submitted during the visa application process.
• Step 2: Visa Formalities. If the visa is being issued on arrival, the traveler presents the approved invitation documents and passport, then pays the applicable visa and related border fees. Note that visas issued at Ashgabat International Airport are subject to an additional fee.
• Step 3: Customs Control. Personal-use baggage is generally not subject to customs duties. Travelers with items requiring declaration should use the Red Channel; travelers carrying only personal-use items should proceed through the Green Channel. Foreign currency may be brought in without limit if declared. Individuals may export foreign currency up to USD 10,000, or the amount previously imported and declared on entry.
• Step 4: Baggage Inspection. Customs officers may inspect luggage at the checkpoint. Travelers may also be asked to provide personal details or answer questions about the goods they are carrying.

Our Assistance

To make the entry process easier, we assist our guests with the preparation of documents before arrival and provide clear instructions for the border crossing procedure. Once you enter Turkmenistan, your guide will meet you and assist you with the next steps of your journey.

Cancellation Policy

Please note that once the Letter of Invitation (LOI) has been approved and issued, the related visa support process is considered completed. If the guest decides to cancel the trip after receiving the approved LOI, a cancellation fee of USD 30 per person will apply. This fee covers the cost of the LOI processing and the administrative work already completed.

We kindly recommend that all guests confirm their travel plans carefully before applying for the Letter of Invitation.

Payment

Our preferred payment method is cash in USD, to be paid upon arrival in Turkmenistan. We kindly ask guests to bring new banknotes whenever possible, as this is generally preferred for local transactions.

We also accept payment through card systems or via WISE. Please note that for payments made through these methods, an additional transaction fee will apply.

If needed, our team will be happy to provide full payment details and explain the available options in advance.