Turkmenistan

When traveling to Turkmenistan, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Turkmenistan, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Participate in negotiations
• » Conclude contracts
• » Conduct financial and other audits
• » Install and repair technical equipment

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

All foreign nationals who intend to enter Turkmenistan to participate in business activities must obtain either a Business Visa from a Turkmenistan Embassy or Consulate prior to travel, or a Visa on Arrival. A Letter of Invitation from the State Migration Service is required prior to issuance of either visa type. Please consult with your immigration counsel before traveling to determine eligibility and requirements for a Business Visa or Visa on Arrival.

What types of activities require work authorization?

Business visitors may generally perform certain short-term hands-on professional activities in Turkmenistan, including conducting audits and inspections, and equipment assembly, repair and maintenance work, without obtaining work authorization.

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

Requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Turkmenistan. The most common type of work authorization for Turkmenistan is a Work Permit.

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

Turkmenistan has several exemptions for work authorization requirements for students and certain occupations, thought some conditions and additional requirements may apply before working and residing in Turkmenistan.

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

Copyright © 2022 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.