Turkmenistan

Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Turkmenistan. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

As business visitors, travelers to Turkmenistan may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attend business meetings
• Attend conferences and conventions
• Tour a company facility
• Negotiate contracts

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Turkmenistan?

There are no countries with established visa exemptions with Turkmenistan. All business visitors must obtain a Business Visa prior to travel from a Turkmen Consulate or Embassy.

Working in Turkmenistan

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Turkmen law. This list is not comprehensive and many other professional activities are considered work in Turkmenistan, even if conducted for a short duration.

• Hands-on technical work
• Repairs and maintenance
• Project planning and implementation
• Marketing
• Consulting

In some cases, you may be eligible for a work-permit exemption to conduct certain technical and service related activities for a limited time; however, a legal assessment is recommended prior to travel to Turkmenistan.

If I am traveling to Turkmenistan for work, what type of work permit do I need?

Whether you require a work permit depends on your qualifications, whether your employer has an entity in Turkmenistan, and the nature of your work. The most common Turkmen work authorization is a Work Permit (skilled professionals work permit).

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work permit requirements?

There are no nationals with established work permit exemptions with Turkmenistan.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization entail careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.