Turkmenistan Implements Electronic Visa System: A New Boost for Tourism and Business Development
Turkmenistan has begun implementing an electronic visa (e-visa) system aimed at simplifying entry for foreign nationals and expanding the country’s international cooperation in tourism and business sectors. This was stated by Yusup Odeyev, Deputy Head of the Education Department of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan, during the international conference “Peace, Sustainable Development, and Migration” held in Ashgabat.
Legal Framework and Technical Solutions
According to Yusup Odeyev, amendments and additions were made to Turkmenistan’s Law on Migration in April 2025. Under the new regulations, the electronic visa is defined as an official electronic document issued through the digital system of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan. It grants foreign nationals the right to enter the country, temporarily stay, exit, and transit through Turkmenistan.
The new system allows foreign nationals to apply for visas online, eliminating physical accessibility barriers and providing a time-saving, transparent procedure for travelers.
Transition to Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence Capabilities
Turkmenistan places particular emphasis on modern digital solutions and is undertaking modernization efforts in this area. According to Yusup Odeyev, the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies will enable automatic analysis of migration data, use of biometric data (facial recognition, fingerprints, etc.), and risk assessment based on big data.
“The broad application of intelligent algorithms will significantly improve document accuracy, accelerate procedures, and enhance security” Odeyev noted.
New Opportunities for Tourism and Business Relations
The introduction of the electronic visa system will not only simplify administrative procedures but also contribute to strengthening Turkmenistan’s position in the international tourism market and expanding business cooperation with foreign partners.
This initiative will create important opportunities for reinforcing cooperation with other neutral countries, supporting regional economic integration, and fostering cultural exchanges.
Regional Cooperation and Joint Development
The international conference held in Ashgabat was attended by representatives of government agencies from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, as well as experts and representatives of international organizations from Azerbaijan, Iran, the Russian Federation, and Turkey.
Participants supported the digital modernization of Turkmenistan’s migration system, exchanged international experience, and expressed interest in further developing cooperation.
