How to get a Turkmenistan visa from South Africa

• The tourist visa allows travelers visit Turkmenistan for tourism purpose.
• On arrival into the country, foreigners are to pay US$2 arrival tax and receive travel entry pass.
• A 2 x 2'' recent passport-sized photograph is required.
• A tour guide is required to who meet you at the border/airport and remain with you throughout your trip.
• There’s no legal requirement for them to be with you throughout the day, but you’re not legally allowed to travel in Turkmenistan without them. Most tour companies insist you travel in private transport with the guide.
  
• Foreigners are also required to pay a tourism tax of US$2 per day for the duration of their stay.
• You must have an LOI (Letter Of Invitation) from a host in Turkmenistan in order to be issued a visa. Without the letter, denial if visa is inevitable.
• Foreigners working in the media, human rights fields or for political organisations will be not be allowed entry into Turkmenistan.
  
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination must be required.
• If you are travelling with a minor, ensure that you have a letter of consent which should be signed by both parents of the minor. Minors should ensure they have the original copy of their birth certificate.
• All travelers are required to have a valid medical insurance to cover entire duration of stay.
• Foreigners on this visa are not allowed to take up work while in the country.

• Business travelers on the business visa can attend business meetings, negotiate and sign contracts with partner companies in Turkmenistan.
• A letter of invitation from the host company is required, and this letter should be certified by the State Foreign Citizens Registration Service of Turkmenistan. The invitation is valid only for 3 (three) months from the date it was confirmed.
• A letter from your current employer stating that he is aware of your business leave. The address of the company should be written in the letter as well as the duration of the visit.
• Business is often a matter of personal influence and politics. in Turkmenistan.
• Smaller or lesser known companies must establish their bona fides before being accepted at the highest levels.
  
• Certificate of employment from your current employer in South Africa should be provided.
• Proof of a return ticket must be provided.
• Proof of legal status must also be provided. For example, birth certificate, marriage certificate, driver's license.
• The company you are meeting with in Turkmenistan should provide you with their certificate of business registration.
• If you are a non-South African, your South African stay permit should be provided during the visa application process.
• Proof of paid visa application fee is required.

Yes, Turkmenistan is a relatively safe country to visit.

Natural gas as well as electricity and water were free from 1993 to 2017.