Separate passport control points for Organization of Turkic States countries on the agenda

Work has begun on a new passport control system aimed at speeding up travel between member countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). The planned implementation aims to create separate transit points at airports and border crossings for citizens of member countries.

Details of the new system emerged following the 3rd Meeting of Interior Ministers of the Organization of Turkic States held in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. If the initiative is implemented, it is expected that passengers holding Turkish passports will be able to pass through passport control faster when traveling to OTS member countries.

SYSTEM SIMILAR TO THE EU MODEL

In statements made after the meeting, it was noted that the model being worked on is designed similarly to the separate transit practices used in European Union countries. Accordingly, the control points designated for citizens of OTS member countries will aim to shorten processing times for travel.

A definitive timeline for when the practice will be put into effect has not yet been announced. Which countries and which border crossings will use the separate passport control points in the first phase will also become clear after the studies are completed.

If the system is implemented, passenger mobility between Turkic states is expected to become easier and more organized. It is anticipated that technical and administrative details will be shared with the public after officials complete their work.