What is a visa?

U.S. Capitol (Photo: AP Images)

A visa is issued by a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. A visa entitles the holder to travel to the United States and apply for admission. It does not guarantee entry. An immigration inspector at the port of entry determines the visa holder's eligibility for admission into the United States and their length of stay.

Who needs a visa?

Citizens of Turkmenistan, like citizens of most countries, require a visa to enter the United States.  Citizens of certain other countries may enter the United States without a visa if they are traveling for pleasure, business or in transit and they meet certain other requirements. Click here for more information on the Visa Waiver Program.

Types of visas

Non-Immigrant Visas are for people with permanent residence outside the United States, but who wish to go to the U.S. on a temporary basis - for tourism, business, medical treatment, temporary work, or study.

Immigrant Visas are required by anyone seeking to take up indefinite or permanent residence in the United States. Upon entry into the United States, an immigrant visa holder is processed for a Permanent Resident Card (I-551), commonly known as a Green Card.

Starting February 1, 2010, the Consular Section of US Embassy Ashgabat will adjudicate visas to residents and citizens of Turkmenistan seeking permanent residence in the United States, based on certain categories of familial relationship with U. S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents, or offers of employment.

Both nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applicants must meet the requirements of United States immigration law and regulations in order to be issued visas.

How do I make an appointment?

Schedule your appointment online by going to this website and following the instructions:

https://evisaforms.state.gov/default.asp?postcode=AKD&appcode=3

You will be able to fill out the online visa application form (a requirement for all visa applicants) on this site prior to scheduling your appointment. Online appointment scheduling is convenient, easy to use, and gives the applicant more flexibility in choosing an appointment time. In the case of an emergency, you may request an expedited appointment.

Location

The Consular Section is located in the American Embassy at 9 Pushkin Street, Ashgabat. There are no other consular posts located in Turkmenistan. Faxes may be sent to: (993-12) 94-26-14.

Mailing address:

From the United States:
Department of State
7070 Ashgabat Place
Washington, D.C.
20521-7070

Worldwide:
American Embassy
9 1984 Street (formerly Pushkin Street)
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan 744000