- The best travel insurance plans for Turkmenistan
- Is it currently safe to travel to Turkmenistan?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter</b> Turkmenistan?
- Why take out travel insurance for Turkmenistan?
- What should travel insurance for Turkmenistan cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Turkmenistan
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Turkmenistan?
- The coverage of your current insurance in Turkmenistan
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Turkmenistan: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Turkmenistan covers medical emergencies, trip issues, and provides essential assistance abroad.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is not required for U.S. citizens to enter Turkmenistan.
3. Good to know: However, it is crucial due to the country's limited medical facilities and services.
4. Healthcare cost: A medical evacuation from Turkmenistan can cost tens of thousands of dollars without insurance.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Turkmenistan costs approximately $30 to $60.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes medical evacuation, as local healthcare is below U.S. standards.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Turkmenistan.
The best travel insurance plans for Turkmenistan
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M USD | Leading choice for Turkmenistan. - very high medical ceiling - emergency evacuation - modern, broad guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M USD | Great value for different travel durations. - 24/7 support - strong cancellation cover - clear conditions |
| Tourist Card | $550k USD | Effective for tourism and short business. - solid core cover - assistance services - practical pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k USD | Useful for longer stays or complex travel. - good outpatient care - hospital benefit - help for chronic issues |
| Globe Partner | $330k USD | Simple, reliable essentials. - medical support abroad - civil liability - repatriation included |
| Globe Traveller | $550k USD | Balanced and efficient for low-risk trips. - essential medical - fast claims - suits most travelers’ needs |
- very high medical ceiling
- emergency evacuation
- modern, broad guarantees
- 24/7 support
- strong cancellation cover
- clear conditions
- solid core cover
- assistance services
- practical pricing
- good outpatient care
- hospital benefit
- help for chronic issues
- medical support abroad
- civil liability
- repatriation included
- essential medical
- fast claims
- suits most travelers’ needs
Is it currently safe to travel to Turkmenistan?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State assesses Turkmenistan as a Level 1 destination: travelers are advised to exercise normal precautions, based on the latest official guidance.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: police document checks are frequent, especially in Ashgabat and at transport hubs. Foreigners who do not carry a passport at all times may be detained or fined.
- Health risks: medical care is limited and below US standards. Local hospitals, including Ashgabat International Medical Center, typically lack supplies and equipment, and serious cases require costly medical evacuation.
- Legal requirements: tourists must register with the State Migration Service within three working days of arrival if staying more than three days. Failing to comply can result in fines, exit delays, or deportation.
- Entry process: a negative COVID-19 test is required upon arrival, with a fee of $31 payable on site. Official letters of invitation are mandatory for visa approval.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Turkmenistan.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Turkmenistan?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens to enter Turkmenistan.
While it is not legally required, travel insurance is highly recommended due to the limited quality of local medical care and the potential need for costly medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury. The US State Department advises all travelers to have robust medical and evacuation coverage valid for Turkmenistan.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Turkmenistan. This high percentage is due to expensive evacuation costs and the risks of illness or accident in a country with limited medical infrastructure.
Why take out travel insurance for Turkmenistan?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Turkmenistan.
Medical costs in Turkmenistan can be very high for foreign travelers. Public hospitals, such as Ashgabat's International Medical Center, offer limited care, and private clinics can be expensive and are mostly found in Ashgabat. Serious cases may require evacuation to another country, which increases costs significantly.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation, and emergency repatriation to the United States if you experience a serious medical issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Turkmenistan.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at International Medical Center (TMT) (USD equivalent) | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 7,000 TMT (about $2,000) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 11,500 TMT (about $3,300) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 140,000 TMT (about $40,000) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 23,000 TMT (about $6,650) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Turkmenistan cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| ? Medical expenses | Covers doctor visits, hospitalisation, outpatient care, and medication if you fall ill or are injured in Turkmenistan. Recommended reimbursement limit: $100,000 or more. |
| ✈️ Medical evacuation | Pays for emergency transport to better-equipped hospitals in another country such as Turkey or UAE if treatment is not available locally. Recommended: at least $150,000 coverage. |
| ? Repatriation | Covers the cost of returning you to the United States in case of severe illness or accident. Recommended: $150,000 in coverage. |
| ? Baggage and personal items | Covers lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and valuables during your journey or stay. Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,000–$3,000. |
| ? Emergency assistance | Access to 24/7 helpline and support for arranging care and logistics in a crisis. Ensure that global assistance is included. |
| ? Trip cancellation | Reimburses prepaid travel expenses if your trip has to be cancelled for covered reasons like illness, legal obligation, or natural disaster. Recommended: $5,000 or more. |
| ? Personal liability | Protects you if you accidentally cause injury or material damage to others while in Turkmenistan. Recommended minimum: $50,000. |
| ? Pandemic-related costs | Covers expenses for quarantine, testing, or extra accommodation in case of COVID-19 or another epidemic. Recommended: Confirm COVID-19 cover is included. |
Recommended reimbursement limit: $100,000 or more.
Recommended: at least $150,000 coverage.
Recommended: $150,000 in coverage.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,000–$3,000.
Ensure that global assistance is included.
Recommended: $5,000 or more.
Recommended minimum: $50,000.
Recommended: Confirm COVID-19 cover is included.
Local providers or bank cards often offer limited coverage, with low payout limits and many exclusions, especially for medical evacuation and pandemic risks. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant proof.
The cost of travel insurance for Turkmenistan
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $31 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $52 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $75 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $170 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of travel insurance for your trip to Turkmenistan depends on key factors: your age, trip duration, chosen coverage limits, and any added options like medical evacuation. Given the limited local medical care, carefully considering these elements is vital to ensure you are adequately protected and avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses.
? It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow can you pay less for your travel insurance to Turkmenistan?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Turkmenistan while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ?️ Destination coverage | Medical facilities in Turkmenistan are limited, so coverage for medical evacuation is especially important. | Always check if Turkmenistan and evacuation are included, even in the most basic policy. |
| ? Traveler's age | Insurance price often increases with age. | Compare offers for your age range. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| ? Trip duration | The longer your stay, the higher your premium will usually be. | Only insure the days you are actually traveling. Shorter coverage periods reduce costs. |
| ? Payment method | Some credit cards offer basic travel insurance when you pay for the trip with them. | Check your card’s insurance limits. If suitable, avoid buying extra coverage. |
| ? Level of coverage | High medical limits are vital for emergencies, medical evacuation, and hospital stays. | Choose higher medical limits, but skip add-ons you don’t need, such as adventure sports. |
| ??? Family/group policies | Group packages may offer reduced per-person rates. | Look for family or group discounts when traveling with others, as these can cut costs. |
| ? Digital insurers | Online-only insurers frequently offer more competitive pricing. | Use online comparison platforms for simple quotes and lower service fees. |
The coverage of your current insurance in Turkmenistan
It is completely reasonable to wonder if your current coverage—such as credit card insurance or your health plan—can protect you during a trip to Turkmenistan. Unfortunately, this cover is often limited or insufficient, especially as US public health programs do not operate overseas and many credit cards offer only minimal protection.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Turkmenistan? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for medical expenses or repatriation abroad. | Travel insurance covers more than $100,000 for emergency care and evacuation. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Some emergency reimbursement, but excludes evacuation and hospital stay costs abroad. | Travel insurance often covers $100,000–$500,000 medical, evacuation, and 24/7 help. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | Medical fees below $5,000, no evacuation or trip cancellation, often strict conditions. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ plus baggage and trip cancellation protection. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Capital One Venture) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $25,000, some baggage and delay, limited trip interruption. | Travel insurance covers trip cancellation up to $5,000 and real-time local support. |
Example
After a stray dog bite near Ashgabat, Sarah required a series of rabies shots. The full treatment and emergency medical evacuation to a better-equipped hospital in Turkey cost $75,000. Her Chase Sapphire card covered only $10,000, and her US health plan excluded international evacuation, leaving her with a crippling $65,000 bill.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkmenistan?
Yes, US citizens need a visa to enter Turkmenistan. You must obtain a letter of invitation from the State Migration Service before applying. You can apply for a visa at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Washington D.C. or receive a visa on arrival at Ashgabat airport if you meet specific criteria.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Turkmenistan?
To purchase travel insurance for Turkmenistan, first compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the cover and exclusions, paying special attention to guarantees and any exclusions related to Turkmenistan. Buy your policy online, and you will receive your certificate by email, which you should carry with you.
Is health care expensive for tourists in Turkmenistan?
Yes, medical care in Turkmenistan is often limited and below US standards. Costs for basic treatment may start around $100, but more complex care or evacuation can be much higher. Medical evacuation, sometimes necessary, can exceed $15,000. Always carry cash, as card payment is rarely accepted.
What should my travel insurance policy include for Turkmenistan?
Good travel insurance for Turkmenistan should cover emergency medical expenses, evacuation, hospitalisation, and repatriation. Look for a policy with at least $100,000 in medical coverage. Coverage for baggage loss, trip cancellation, and 24/7 assistance is also advisable given the limited local services available.
Can I buy travel insurance for Turkmenistan after I've left the US?
Most insurers require you to purchase travel insurance before leaving the US, though a few may provide limited post-departure coverage. It is strongly advised to buy your policy before your trip begins to ensure you are covered from the moment you arrive in Turkmenistan.
Is insurance more expensive for Turkmenistan than other destinations?
Travel insurance for Turkmenistan is generally similar in cost to other Central Asian countries. For a two-week trip, typical prices for comprehensive coverage range from $50 to $120 per person. Prices may be higher if you want coverage for adventure activities or pre-existing medical conditions.
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkmenistan?
Yes, US citizens need a visa to enter Turkmenistan. You must obtain a letter of invitation from the State Migration Service before applying. You can apply for a visa at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Washington D.C. or receive a visa on arrival at Ashgabat airport if you meet specific criteria.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Turkmenistan?
To purchase travel insurance for Turkmenistan, first compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the cover and exclusions, paying special attention to guarantees and any exclusions related to Turkmenistan. Buy your policy online, and you will receive your certificate by email, which you should carry with you.
Is health care expensive for tourists in Turkmenistan?
Yes, medical care in Turkmenistan is often limited and below US standards. Costs for basic treatment may start around $100, but more complex care or evacuation can be much higher. Medical evacuation, sometimes necessary, can exceed $15,000. Always carry cash, as card payment is rarely accepted.
What should my travel insurance policy include for Turkmenistan?
Good travel insurance for Turkmenistan should cover emergency medical expenses, evacuation, hospitalisation, and repatriation. Look for a policy with at least $100,000 in medical coverage. Coverage for baggage loss, trip cancellation, and 24/7 assistance is also advisable given the limited local services available.
Can I buy travel insurance for Turkmenistan after I've left the US?
Most insurers require you to purchase travel insurance before leaving the US, though a few may provide limited post-departure coverage. It is strongly advised to buy your policy before your trip begins to ensure you are covered from the moment you arrive in Turkmenistan.
Is insurance more expensive for Turkmenistan than other destinations?
Travel insurance for Turkmenistan is generally similar in cost to other Central Asian countries. For a two-week trip, typical prices for comprehensive coverage range from $50 to $120 per person. Prices may be higher if you want coverage for adventure activities or pre-existing medical conditions.
