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Visitor & short-stay visas

Turkmen Visa at Ashgabat Airport (Visa on Arrival)

For travellers whose Letter of Invitation has already been approved by the State Migration Service, this entry visa is issued on arrival at Ashgabat International Airport.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

Under review — check current rules

The exact list of nationalities and entry points eligible for airport issuance, and whether it is currently operating without restrictions, are not confirmed from an official page.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Turkmenistan government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Visa issued at Ashgabat International Airport
Route type
Airport (on-arrival) issuance of an entry visa
Cost
Standard visa fee by duration/entries plus USD 50 airport surcharge
Official MFA consular-fee tariff
Invitation
Requires a Letter of Invitation approved by the State Migration Service in advance
Where to apply
Ashgabat International Airport, on arrival
Only after a certified letter of invitation has been arranged in advance
Letter of invitation
Required, certified by the State Migration Service
Valid for 3 months from the date of certification
Passport validity
At least 6 months from date of departure
Photos
Two colour photographs, 3x4 format

Who it is for

  • Travellers arriving by air at Ashgabat with an approved invitation
  • Those unable to obtain the visa at a consulate before departure

Requirements

  • A Letter of Invitation pre-approved by the State Migration Service
  • A valid passport and application form
  • Payment of the visa fee plus the USD 50 airport surcharge

How to apply

  • Arrange and obtain State Migration Service approval of the invitation before travelling
  • Present the approval, passport and payment at the airport visa desk on arrival

Before you travel

This is not a visa you can simply turn up and request. Your host in Turkmenistan — the person, company or travel agency inviting you — must first apply to the State Migration Service for a letter of invitation and have it certified. Only once that certified invitation exists can the visa be issued to you on arrival.

The certified letter of invitation is valid for 3 months from the date it is certified, so time your travel to fall within that window.

Documents you may need

  • Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond departure)
  • The certified letter of invitation from the State Migration Service (original or copy)
  • Two 3x4 colour photographs
  • Completed visa application form

Frequently asked questions

  • No. A letter of invitation certified by the State Migration Service must be arranged before you travel. Arriving without a visa or a certified invitation can result in being held at the airport until you arrange to leave the country.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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