Turkmenistan Passport Rules for UK Travellers
Quick answer: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave Turkmenistan. You must have a visa. Since 1 October 2026, tourists get an e-visa arranged through their tour agency or event organiser.
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Turkmenistan travel requirements at a glance
6 months after you leave
Required, e-visa for tourists via sponsor
COVID-19 test for all travellers
If staying over 3 working days
Official source: GOV.UK Turkmenistan entry requirements.
Passport rules: quick summary
- 6 months passport validity after leaving
- Visa needed, arranged through a sponsor
- COVID-19 test on arrival
- Register if staying over 3 working days
Passport validity for Turkmenistan
GOV.UK says your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you leave Turkmenistan.
Count from the day you plan to leave Turkmenistan, not the day you arrive. A longer trip needs more time left on your passport.
Visas
You must have a visa to visit Turkmenistan. Since 1 October 2026, tourists and people attending government-backed international conferences and exhibitions get an e-visa. You cannot apply yourself. Your tour agency or event organiser acts as your sponsor.
Once it is approved and paid for through your sponsor, you can print the e-visa or show it electronically on arrival. It replaces the old letter of invitation and visa in your passport.
For any other purpose, you still need a letter of invitation from a sponsoring organisation. You can then apply at an Embassy of Turkmenistan or get a visa on arrival, which costs an extra 50 US dollars. Transit visas are available for overland transit of fewer than 5 days.
Arriving and registration
All travellers must take a COVID-19 test on arrival, and pay a migration fee and a daily tourism tax. GOV.UK says the test costs 31 US dollars cash, the migration fee is 14 US dollars and the tax is 2 US dollars a day.
If you stay more than 3 working days, you must register with the State Migration Service within 3 days of arrival. Your hotel or sponsor will usually do this.
Check your passport for Turkmenistan
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need 6 months on my passport for Turkmenistan?
Yes, counted from when you leave. GOV.UK says your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you leave Turkmenistan.
Do I need a visa for Turkmenistan?
Yes. GOV.UK says you must have a visa. Tourists and conference visitors get an e-visa through their tour agency or event organiser. Other visitors need a letter of invitation from a sponsor.
Can I enter Turkmenistan overland from Iran?
Only with special authorisation from the Government of Turkmenistan and confirmation of an onward flight. Contact the FCDO before you travel to the border.