How Long Can I Stay in Turkmenistan?
Complete guide for US passport holders. Last verified 2026-02-08.
Maximum Stay
varies
At a Glance
Duration
varies
varies
Visa Type
Visa with letter of invitation
Entry Requirements
- Letter of invitation required - person/organization inviting must submit request to State Migration Service (SMS) with copy of passport ID page
- After receiving letter of invitation, apply for visa at Embassy of Turkmenistan in Washington D.C. or at airport in Ashgabat upon arrival
- $29 registration fee required upon arrival
Important Things to Know
Cost of visa application varies depending on length of validity
Must register yourself within 3 working days of arrival if staying more than 3 working days with SMS
Must register departure with SMS one day prior to departure
Failure to register properly or update visa can result in fines, arrest, and/or deportation
If deported for violations, barred from returning to Turkmenistan for up to 5 years
Foreigners forbidden to travel to 'restricted zones' (border areas and Caspian coast) without special permission from SMS
If arrive without visa or certified letter of invitation, officials may hold you at airport until you arrange to leave
Dual U.S.-Turkmen citizens: Turkmenistan does not allow dual citizenship - often stops dual citizens from leaving until they give up Turkmen citizenship (process can take several months)
All arriving passengers must take COVID-19 test at airport - cost $31
Can I Extend My Stay?
Apply for visa extensions with SMS in Ashgabat
Additional Information
Letter of invitation required for entry. U.S. Embassy cannot help private citizens obtain letters of invitation.
Official Sources
U.S. Department of State - Turkmenistan Country Information
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Turkmenistan.htmlLast verified: 2026-02-08
Always verify current requirements with official government sources before traveling, as visa policies can change.
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