We continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution overall due to the threat of crime. We continue to advise do not travel to the region bordering Afghanistan (see ‘Safety’). You need a visa and a letter of invitation for Turkmenistan, even if you’re only transiting. Get a visa before you arrive, and don’t overstay your visa, as there are penalties (see ‘Travel’).

The Iran-Turkmenistan border is open for humanitarian purposes, including for transit of foreign citizens in Iran. We are currently working with Turkmen authorities to facilitate humanitarian transit entry into Turkmenistan for Australian citizens. If you are an Australian citizen seeking humanitarian transit entry from Iran into Turkmenistan, contact the Australian Embassy in Moscow (see ‘Travel’ below) and attach a copy of your Australian passport.

We advise:

Exercise a high degree of caution in Turkmenistan overall due to the threat of crime.

Higher levels apply in some areas.