Turkmenistan Turkey Visa: A New Era Has Begun!

Visa exemption for Turkmenistan citizens traveling to Turkey ended on 19 September 2022. As of this date, Turkmenistan citizens are required to obtain a Turkey visa suitable for their travel purpose in order to travel to Turkey. The application process is carried out through the Consulate or authorized application centers, with the complete submission of required documents and appointment booking.

Turkmenistan Turkey Visa: New Era and Current Information

The deep-rooted historical, cultural and fraternal ties between Turkey and Turkmenistan have always made mutual travel between the citizens of the two countries special. The long-standing visa exemption period was a concrete indicator of these ties, enabling thousands of Turkmenistan citizens to study, trade, visit relatives and travel for tourism purposes in Turkey. However, changes in travel conditions can occur from time to time due to dynamics in international relations and countries' domestic policies. A significant transformation also took place in 2022 regarding the travel regime for Turkmenistan citizens to Turkey. As MY Visa, we aim to shed light on this new era and the Turkey visa application processes for Turkmenistan citizens with the most current and detailed information.

This blog content covers the visa application processes, required documents, application steps and critical points to pay attention to for Turkmenistan citizens traveling to Turkey. Our aim is to simplify the seemingly complex visa processes and guide you with MY Visa's experienced expert team.

Visa Exemption Period and the New Practice

The visa-free travel practice that had been in place between Turkmenistan and Turkey for many years greatly facilitated interaction between the peoples of the two countries. Thanks to this practice, Turkmenistan citizens could enter Turkey without a visa for a certain period (usually 30 days). This provided significant flexibility, especially for education, trade and family visits. However, with the decision of the Republic of Turkey published in the Official Gazette dated 19 September 2022, the visa exemption practice for Turkmenistan citizens was unilaterally lifted.

Following this decision, it has become mandatory for Turkmenistan citizens to obtain a visa suitable for their travel purpose for any travel to Turkey. Although this change initially brought some difficulties, it aims to establish a travel procedure in line with international standards and to increase security measures. The new era requires applicants to go through a more meticulous preparation process and submit all required documents in full. As MY Visa, our top priority during this transition period is to support applicants with accurate and up-to-date information.

Types of Turkey Visas for Turkmenistan Citizens

Turkey offers various types of visas for different travel purposes. It is critical for Turkmenistan citizens to apply for the correct visa type according to the nature of their travel in order for the process to proceed smoothly. Applications made for the wrong visa type can lead to loss of time and cost, and may even result in visa refusal. Here are the most common types of Turkey visas for Turkmenistan citizens:

• Tourist Visa: Valid for those who wish to visit Turkey for holiday, travel and cultural purposes. This visa type is usually issued for short-term stays and does not grant a work permit. Documents such as hotel reservations, flight tickets and a travel plan may be requested during the application.
• Commercial Visa: Required for business people who wish to come to Turkey for business meetings, trade fair participation, conferences or commercial agreements. For this visa type, additional documents such as an invitation letter from the business partner or host organization in Turkey are requested.
• Student Visa: Turkmenistan citizens who wish to study at an educational institution in Turkey (university, language course, etc.) should apply for this visa. An acceptance letter, proof of tuition fee payment and proof of financial sufficiency form the basis of the application.
• Work Visa: Mandatory for those who wish to work for an employer in Turkey. The work visa is also a prerequisite for a work permit application. The employment contract, an invitation letter from the employer and preliminary approvals from relevant ministries are important for this visa type.
• Family Reunification Visa: Issued for the spouse, children or dependent parents of a Turkish citizen residing legally in Turkey or a foreigner with a legal residence permit. This visa type requires official documents proving family ties and proof of financial sufficiency.
• Health and Treatment Visa: Valid for those who wish to receive medical treatment or benefit from health services in Turkey. An appointment or acceptance letter from the health institution in Turkey, a treatment plan, and proof of financial sufficiency to cover treatment costs are vital for this visa type.

Each visa type has its own specific document requirements and application procedures. As MY Visa experts, we provide comprehensive consultancy services to help applicants determine the most suitable visa type for their travel purposes and prepare the required documents completely.

Step-by-Step Turkey Visa Application Process

The Turkey visa application process for Turkmenistan citizens is a procedure that requires following certain steps meticulously. Every step taken in this process being accurate and complete is vital for a positive outcome of the application.

#### 1. Determining the Visa Type and Collecting Required Documents

The first and most critical step of the application process is to correctly determine the visa type suitable for your travel purpose. After determining which of the visa types mentioned above applies to you, you should start collecting all documents specifically required for that visa type in full. In general, the basic documents common to every visa type are as follows:

• Passport: A passport valid for at least 6 months from the end date of travel and with at least two blank pages.
• Biometric Photograph: 2 photographs taken within the last 6 months, with a white background, 5x6 cm in size and in accordance with biometric standards.
• Visa Application Form: An application form obtained from the official website of Turkish foreign missions or authorized application centers, filled out completely and accurately.
• Travel Health Insurance: International travel health insurance covering the duration of stay in Turkey, with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000, covering emergency medical treatment, hospital expenses and return-to-country expenses.
• Flight Ticket and Accommodation Reservations: Round-trip flight ticket reservations and a hotel reservation or invitation letter regarding your accommodation in Turkey (if you will be staying with a relative).
• Proof of Financial Sufficiency: Documents showing that you can cover your expenses during your stay in Turkey (bank statements for the last 3 months, salary slips, title deed records, rental income, etc.).
• Full Civil Registry Record with Marital Status Details: A document showing family ties or family status in Turkey.
• Residence Certificate: An official document showing your residence address in Turkmenistan.
• Documents Showing Professional Status: For employees, a leave permission letter on company letterhead and a social security (SGK) record; for employers, company documents (tax certificate, signature circular); for students, a student certificate; for retirees, a retirement certificate.

It is important to have both current originals of the documents and their photocopies ready. Certified translations of some documents may also be requested.

#### 2. Obtaining an Application Appointment

After collecting all required documents, you need to get an appointment from Turkey's foreign missions in Turkmenistan (the Ashgabat Embassy) or authorized visa application centers (such as organizations authorized by the consulate, for example Gateway International). Appointment systems generally operate online. When booking an appointment, it is important to plan in a way that leaves you enough time to complete your application. Appointment times may be extended especially during busy periods, so it will be beneficial to start the application process a reasonable time before your travel date.

#### 3. Document Submission to the Application Center and Interview (If Required)

On your appointment day, you need to go in person to the relevant application center or consulate with all your documents. Here, your documents will be checked, your fingerprint data will be taken and the visa fee will be collected. In some cases, a short interview may be conducted by the visa officer. The purpose of this interview is to confirm the accuracy of the information provided in the application form and documents, and to gather more information about your travel purpose. It is important to give confident, honest and clear answers during the interview.

#### 4. Payment of Visa Fees

Visa application fees vary depending on the type of visa you apply for and the current tariff. These fees are usually payable at the application center or consulate. In addition to the visa fee, authorized application centers may also charge a service fee. Fees paid are generally not refunded in case of application refusal. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully review all conditions before applying.

#### 5. Tracking the Application and Collecting the Visa

After submitting your application, you can usually check the status of your application through the online tracking system of the application center or consulate. The visa evaluation period may vary depending on application volume, visa type and requests for additional documents. It may take an average of 7 to 15 business days, although this period may be extended. Once your visa is approved, you can collect your passport from the application center or consulate. Check the page where your visa is printed carefully to make sure all information is correct.

Important Points and Tips to Consider During the Application Process

Given the complexity of the visa application process, paying attention to some critical points and following certain tips are of great importance for a successful application. As MY Visa, with years of experience, we offer the following recommendations to applicants:

• Apply Early: Start your visa application process at least 1-2 months before your travel date. This will give you room to maneuver in case of possible delays, requests for additional documents or difficulties finding an appointment. Applications left to the last minute can bring a stressful process and even the risk of postponing the trip.
• Completeness and Accuracy of Documents: Make sure every document in your application file is complete, current and consistent with each other. Incorrect or missing information is one of the most common reasons for visa refusal. Prepare originals of all documents and the required number of photocopies. Have certified translations made if necessary.
• Financial Sufficiency: It is very important to prove that you can finance yourself and any dependents during your stay in Turkey. Clearly demonstrate your financial situation with documents such as bank statements, salary slips and title deed records. Avoid sudden and unexplained large amounts of money entering your account.
• Travel Health Insurance: It is mandatory to obtain travel health insurance that is valid for the duration of your stay in Turkey, has international coverage and sufficient guarantee. This is not only a visa requirement but will also protect you financially against unexpected health problems.
• Invitation Letter (If Required): If you are being invited by a person or institution in Turkey, it is very important that the invitation letter is prepared completely and in accordance with legal requirements. The invitation letter should clearly state the identity information, address and contact details of the inviting person/institution, information about the invited person, the purpose and duration of travel, and who will cover accommodation/expenses. Documents showing the financial sufficiency of the inviting person should also be included.
• Clarity of Travel Purpose: Make sure that the travel purpose declared in your application fully matches your documents. For example, avoid creating an impression of commercial activity while applying for a tourist visa.
• Follow Consulate Instructions: Regularly check the current instructions and announcements of Turkey's foreign missions in Turkmenistan or authorized visa application centers. Visa conditions and procedures may be updated from time to time.
• Get Professional Support: The visa application process can be complex and time-consuming. Getting support from an experienced consultancy firm like MY Visa can ensure the process proceeds smoothly, minimize possible mistakes and increase your application's chance of success. Our experts will guide you at every step, from determining the correct visa type to document preparation, form filling and appointment booking. For professional support in your travel planning and visa application, you can visit myvisa.tr.

These tips will help you overcome possible obstacles you may encounter during your visa application process and ensure a more organized, stress-free experience.

The Role of TRT Avaz and Information Channels in the New Era

The new visa era has made access to information about Turkey even more important for Turkmenistan citizens. In this context, platforms like TRT Avaz play an important role in ensuring cultural exchange and the flow of information. TRT Avaz, as a channel broadcasting to Turkic-speaking peoples in Central Asia and the Caucasus region, including Turkmenistan, can provide information about developments, cultural events and even official announcements in Turkey.

However, the official websites of Turkey's foreign missions in Turkmenistan (the Ashgabat Embassy) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are the primary sources for the most accurate and official information about visa processes and current practices. In addition, the website of the Presidency of Migration Management of the Republic of Turkey is also an important resource for residence permits and general information about foreigners. Authorized visa application centers are also authorized to provide information about current procedures. As MY Visa, we also convey the most up-to-date information we obtain from these official channels to our applicants, establishing an accurate and reliable information bridge.

What to Do in Case of Visa Refusal

Although a meticulous preparation process and correct application increase the chance of visa approval, it is possible to encounter a visa refusal decision in some cases. Although a visa refusal may discourage the applicant, it does not mean the end of the process. Here is what to do in case of visa refusal:

• Understand the Reason for Refusal: You will be notified in writing of the visa refusal decision. The reasons for refusal should be clearly stated in this document. Read the reason for refusal carefully and try to understand it. There may be various reasons such as missing documents, incorrect information, financial insufficiency, the travel purpose not being found convincing, or doubts about returning to the country.
• Correcting Mistakes and Reapplying: If the reason for refusal stems from a missing or incorrect document, you can make a new application by correcting this deficiency or error. Before reapplying, it is important to analyze and strengthen all the weak points in your first application. Getting support from MY Visa experts during this process can significantly increase the chance of success of your second application.
• Right to Object: In some cases, you may have the right to object to the visa refusal. The objection process and conditions may vary according to the policies of the consulate or application center that issued the refusal. The objection is usually made in writing and requires submitting additional documents or explanations proving that you believe the refusal was unjust. The chance of the objection being accepted depends on the reason for refusal and the new evidence presented.

Although encountering a visa refusal may disrupt your travel plans, there is always a chance of achieving a positive result with a new application by taking the right steps and making the necessary corrections.

Conclusion

The changes in the travel regime for Turkmenistan citizens traveling to Turkey mark the beginning of a new era. With the end of the visa exemption, it has become mandatory for Turkmenistan citizens to obtain a visa for any travel to Turkey. This process requires applicants to pay more attention, have accurate information and prepare documents meticulously.

As MY Visa, we provide comprehensive consultancy services to help Turkmenistan citizens complete their Turkey visa applications smoothly and successfully in this new era. With our experienced expert team, we are with you at every step, from determining the visa type to document preparation, filling out the application form and obtaining an appointment. Our aim is to be a reliable bridge for our valued applicants in reaching their dreams of Turkey. Remember, with the right information and professional support, the visa process never has to be complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it mandatory for Turkmenistan citizens to obtain a Turkey visa?

Yes, as of 19 September 2022, it is mandatory for Turkmenistan citizens to obtain a Turkey visa suitable for their travel purpose in order to travel to Turkey. The old visa exemption practice has ended.

How long does the Turkey visa application process take?

The Turkey visa application process varies depending on application volume, visa type and requests for additional documents, but it is generally concluded within 7 to 15 business days. However, considering possible delays, it is advisable to apply at least 1-2 months before your travel date.

Which documents are required for a visa application?

In general, basic documents such as a passport, biometric photograph, visa application form, travel health insurance, flight ticket and accommodation reservations, proof of financial sufficiency, a full civil registry record with marital status details, and a residence certificate are required. Additional documents (invitation letter, student acceptance certificate, employment contract, etc.) may be requested depending on the visa type.

What should I do in case of visa refusal?

In case of visa refusal, you first need to carefully understand the reason for refusal. If the refusal stems from missing or incorrect documents, you can make a new application by correcting these deficiencies. In some cases, you may also have the right to object. Getting support from professional consultancy firms like MY Visa during this process can increase the chance of success of your second application.