Traveling to Turkmenistan requires careful attention to border permits and entry requirements.
Here’s what you need to know:
Visa Requirements:
- Tourist Visa: All foreign citizens must obtain a tourist visa to enter Turkmenistan. This requires a letter of invitation from a licensed Turkmen travel agency.
- Visa on Arrival: Holders of a letter of invitation from a registered Turkmen company, with prior approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, may obtain a visa on arrival valid for 10 days, extendable for another 10 days.
Border Crossings:
Turkmenistan shares borders with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Afghanistan.
Each border crossing has specific operating hours and procedures:
- Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan Crossings:
- Farap–Alat: Connects Bukhara with Turkmenabat; opens at 8:30 am, closes at 6 pm, with a lunch break between 12:30 and 1:30 pm.
- Shavat–Dashoguz: Links Khiva and Urgench with Dashoguz; operates from 9 am to 6 pm.
- Hojayli–Konye-Urgench: Connects Nukus with Konye-Urgench; open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.
- Iran-Turkmenistan Crossings:
- Sarakhs–Saraghs: Border opens at 8 am and closes at 3 pm.
- Gaudan–Bajgiran: Located less than an hour from Ashgabat; accessible for travelers heading to Mashhad.
- Afghanistan-Turkmenistan Crossings:
- Torghundi (Tawraghudi)–Serkhetabat (Kushka): Main border on the road to Herat; previously reported closed for tourists but may be open now.
- Imam Nazar–Aqina: Remote crossing near Andkhoy; limited traffic and information available.
Special Permits:
Certain areas near borders, such as Kerki, Hazar, Dashoguz, Serakhs, and Serhetabat, are considered restricted zones. Traveling to these areas requires special permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which should be obtained prior to arrival.
Entry Procedures:
- Registration: Foreigners must register with the State Migration Service within three working days of arrival and deregister prior to departure. Failure to do so can result in fines, arrest, or deportation.
- Health Requirements: Upon arrival, travelers may be required to undergo a COVID-19 test at their own expense.
Travel Tips:
- Border Fees: Be prepared to pay various fees at border crossings, including visa fees, entry taxes, and other administrative costs. For example, a $14 entry tax is required upon entering Turkmenistan.
- Currency: The local currency is the Turkmen manat (TMT). While some establishments in Ashgabat may accept credit cards, it’s advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when traveling to rural areas.
- Transportation: Public transportation options are limited, and road conditions can vary. It’s recommended to arrange transportation in advance and ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for the journey.
- Safety: Exercise caution near border areas due to potential security risks. Avoid traveling within 5 km of the Afghanistan border and stay informed about local conditions.
For the most current information, consult the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan and official travel advisories before planning your trip.
