U.S. Lifts Restrictions on Nonimmigrant Visas for Turkmen Citizens

The United States has lifted restrictions on entry for Turkmen citizens under several nonimmigrant visa categories, previously imposed under the June 2025 presidential proclamation. The updated directive is reflected in a revised White House proclamation published in December 2025.

The document notes that Turkmenistan has made significant progress in managing identification data and information sharing, as well as in establishing constructive cooperation with U.S. authorities on security and migration control issues. As a result, the previously applied restrictions have been reviewed and eased.

Available Visa Categories:

Under the revised proclamation, the suspension of entry to the United States for Turkmen citizens has been fully lifted for the following nonimmigrant visas:

• B-1 (Business Visa): Intended for short-term business travel, including participation in negotiations, conferences, meetings, and other commercial activities without the right to employment.
• B-2 (Tourist Visa): Issued for tourism, visiting relatives, medical treatment, and other private purposes.
• B-1/B-2 (Combined Visa): The most common category, allowing travel for both business and tourism purposes.
• F (Student Visa): Granted for study at accredited U.S. institutions, including universities, colleges, and language schools.
• M (Vocational Training Visa): Used for technical and professional training programs not related to academic education.
• J (Exchange Visitor Visa): Covers a wide range of educational and professional exchange programs, including internships, research, academic visits, and cultural projects.

The decision allows Turkmen citizens to apply for visas and plan temporary travel to the United States under previously established procedures, with general visa requirements and processes remaining unchanged.

At the same time, restrictions on immigrant visas intended for permanent residence in the U.S., including Green Cards, remain in effect. U.S. authorities note that further review is ongoing in this area.