Turkmenistan, long one of Central Asia's most closed countries, launched an online e-visa system on October 1, replacing a process that required a formal letter of invitation arranged through a licensed tour operator. US citizens can now apply directly through the State Migration Service portal (evisa.migration.gov.tm) under one of three categories: e-TU for tourism, e-BS for business trips of up to 30 days, or e-HM for humanitarian stays.
Applicants upload a passport photo page (valid at least six months beyond entry) and a passport-style photo, then pay an online fee that varies by visa length and processing speed. Standard processing takes up to seven working days, with an expedited option in three. Travel outside the capital, Ashgabat, still requires special permits in many border regions, and a licensed local operator remains the most practical way to arrange a visit beyond the capital.