For tourists, the immigration process has also been simplified.

Starting October 1st, electronic visas e-TU, business visas, and humanitarian visas have come into effect, according to the Republican Union of Tourist Organizations.

Abolition of Mandatory Invitations and Launch of e-Visas

Until now, foreign tourists needed an official invitation approved by Turkmenistan's migration service. In practice, this meant that a foreign tourist wishing to visit the country had to go through a local licensed tour agency.

Under new rules, an invitation is no longer mentioned among the required documents for obtaining a tourist e-visa.

Processing Times and Costs

The time to receive an electronic visa is up to 7 business days, and urgent visas are issued within 3 days. There is also the option of getting an express visa – within 24 hours. The cost depends on the type of visa and the time required to obtain it.

Digital Immigration Registration by a Few Clicks

The immigration process for tourists has also been simplified. Since April 2026, registration of foreigners has also been moved to an electronic format. If a guest plans to stay in the country for more than three working days, data about their place of stay can be submitted either by the receiving side or by the tourist themselves via the internet. At some border points, instantaneous registration using biometrics is provided.

According to experts, introducing electronic visas and abolishing the mandatory invitation is merely the first step on the path to transforming Turkmenistan into a new regional tourist hit. For travelers, this could become a turning point, changing the game in Central Asia.

What to See in Turkmenistan

Tourists in Turkmenistan can see the monumental Ashgabat, the wonder of nature – the Karakum Desert, and places related to the legendary Silk Road.

On a comparatively small territory, ancient fortresses, Seljuk mausoleums, medieval minarets and mosques have survived. Three objects (Old Nisa, ancient Merv, and Konyurgench) have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Useful Information for Travelers

The electronic visa system operates based on the migration.gov.tm portal. The website rgstr.migration.gov.tm is designated for online registration of foreign citizens.

The airline "Belavia" operates regular flights between Ashgabat and Minsk – twice a week. Flight time is 4 hours and 25 minutes, distance is 2420 km.