Registration Procedures for Foreign Citizens Simplified in Turkmenistan
The measures implemented in Turkmenistan's state policy to develop the digital economy and modern administration also encompass the migration sector. Significant amendments and additions to Article 12 of the Law "On Migration" have further improved the procedures for registering foreign citizens.
The most important aspect of the new edition is the full transition of operations such as registration, extension of duration, and de-registration to an electronic format. Now, all migration actions will be organized through the unified information system of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan, ensuring the speed and transparency of services.
In the new version of the article, the number of sections has been increased from 6 to 17, and the scope of operations has been significantly expanded:
- Identity Documents: Replacing a passport or extending its validity now serves as a direct basis for extending the registration period.
- Change of Residence: Situations related to a citizen's change of stay location are more clearly defined in the legislation.
- Minors: Not only parents but all legal representatives are now entitled to register children.
The new rules are aimed at increasing the tourism and transit potential of the country:
- Transit Passengers: The period of stay in the country without additional registration has been specified as 5 calendar days.
- International Drivers: The duration of stay for crew members of freight transport vehicles has been extended to 15 days.
- Tourists: Registration rules for this category of persons are described in a detailed and convenient manner.
Documents for extending the registration period are now reviewed and completed within just 3 working days. Additionally, officials of international organizations and their family members are exempted from registering with local migration authorities.
