Turkmenistan Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens: Turkmenistan

Note: Entry rules are very strict and can change without notice - check with the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Washington, D.C. or the U.S. Department of State before traveling.

Passport & Visa Requirements

• Passport validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry.
• Blank pages: At least two blank passport pages are required for entry and exit stamps.
• Visa requirement: U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter Turkmenistan.
• Visa issuance: All visas must be obtained in advance from a Turkmen embassy or consulate. A letter of invitation (LOI) approved by the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan is required before applying. Visa on arrival is available only if you have an approved LOI and are flying into Ashgabat International Airport.

Entry Procedures

• Migration card: All travelers must complete a migration card upon arrival and present it when leaving.
• Registration: Travelers must register within 3 days of arrival at the State Migration Service or through their hotel.
• Onward/return ticket: Proof of onward or return travel may be required.
• Proof of accommodation/funds: Immigration may request hotel bookings or evidence of sufficient funds.

Health & Vaccinations

• Routine vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for travelers arriving from the U.S.
• Yellow fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from or transiting through a country with yellow fever risk.
• Medical care: Healthcare facilities are limited and often unreliable; bring all needed prescription medications and medical evacuation insurance.
• COVID-19: There are no COVID-related entry requirements (no proof of vaccination or testing as of 2025).

Traveling with Minors

• Parental authorization: No published special requirements exist, but a notarized parental consent letter is strongly recommended if a child is traveling alone or with only one parent.

Additional Restrictions & Considerations

• Currency declaration: Travelers must declare if carrying more than USD $10,000 (or equivalent) in cash.
• Security advisory: The U.S. Department of State currently advises Level 3: Reconsider Travel to Turkmenistan due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws and limited consular assistance.
• Exit travel permit: Some long-term visa holders need an exit permit to leave Turkmenistan.
• Overstays: Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, and exit bans.