Turkmenistan

Översikt

Crime rates are moderate, but crimes of opportunity against foreign nationals can occur. Petty thieves typically work in crowded areas such as bazaars and markets. A key area of concern in Turkmenistan comes from serious organised crime related to endemic corruption. Corruption within both the political elite and the rank-and-file of the poorly-trained security forces are likely to have an impact on commercial operations in the country. Travel and transportation are subject to restrictions, particularly concerning visa issuance and travel to border areas. Outside the cities, road surfaces are poor and driving is hazardous. Alcohol-related incidents, particularly bar fights and drunk-driving, are common. Terrorism risks are low.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Turkmenistan. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza. Travellers might also consider the vaccinations for Hepatitis B and rabies, according to the specifics of their travel.

Rare malaria cases have been reported near the Afghanistan border, usually between June and October. The country has been certified as free of malaria in 2014.

Typhoid fever vaccination is recommended when going outside the areas usually visited by tourists such as traveling extensively in the interior of the country, for persons on working assignments in remote areas, or travellers visiting for extended periods of time.

Travellers should be aware of the risks associated with travellers’ ailments such as diarrhoea. Travellers must take all necessary precautions when drinking water or eating food within the country and only drink water from sealed bottles obtained from a reputable source or water that has been filtered and boiled.

It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration.

Tuberculosis is highly endemic in Turkmenistan.

The quality of medical facilities in Turkmenistan is generally poor, and not up to the same standards found in Europe and North America. Most of the best facilities are found in the Ashgabat; facilities outside of Ashgabat should be regarded as being very poor. However, even in the capital, it cannot be guaranteed that staff will be highly trained, correct procedures will be followed, or that equipment will be sufficient. As a result, it is not advisable to undergo significant medical treatment in Turkmenistan if this can be avoided. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended although patients should expect to have to pay for their treatment in cash.

To call an ambulance, use the emergency services number which is 03. Call receivers are not likely to speak English, and will only speak Turkmen or Russian.

Pass

To enter Turkmenistan, it is necessary to have a passport valid for at least 6 months upon arrival.

Visum

The process of obtaining a visa to visit Turkmenistan can be unusually lengthy, and so those intending to visit are advised to plan well in advance. The process of referring visa requests to Ashgabat takes at least 20 days. Visitors usually require a Letter of Invitation (LOI) certified by the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan; information on how to acquire a Letter of Invitation can be provided by the relevant embassies. Tourists can receive the LOI from authorised travel agents. Those travelling on business for the first time are required to obtain letters from relevant ministries, departments or companies they expect to work with. There is an accelerated 24 hour service for visas, but a supplementary fee will be charged.

Those staying in Turkmenistan for more than three days must register with the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan. This process can be completed by an employer, inviting organisation or, in the case of tourists, the travel agent. SMS offices are located in Ashgabat, Dashoguz, Mary, Turkmenabat and Turkmenbashi. Those staying for more than three months must produce a certificate proving they are HIV negative. Your tour company should register you with the Office of Foreign Visa Registration (OVIR). Bring passport photographs to smooth the bureaucratic procedures. Failure to inform authorities of a prolonged stay or to inform them of travel plans outside the capital may result in fines or deportation.

Upon arrival visitors will be charged for an immigration card issued by authorities, which travellers must keep with them for the duration of their stay. Upon leaving the country, travellers are required to pay a departure fee. Attempting to exit the country without a valid visa, or committing any other visa-related offences is likely to lead to a five-year ban on travelling. A visa is also necessary for foreigners transiting in the country.