The Big News: 30 Days, No Visa
In a major boost for tourism and bilateral ties, Uzbekistan has officially announced a 30-day visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens. The announcement was made by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during delegation-level talks with Indian Prime Minister
Narendra Modi in Tashkent in late August 2026. This removes a significant hurdle for Indian passport holders, who previously needed to apply for an e-visa. The new policy covers visits for tourism, business, and cultural exchanges, making it much simpler to plan a trip to this historic Central Asian nation. While the policy has been announced, travellers are advised to confirm the official implementation date through embassy or airline channels before making non-refundable bookings.
How The New Policy Works
Under the new regime, Indian passport holders can enter Uzbekistan and stay for up to 30 days without a pre-arranged visa. One recent clarification states that the policy applies to Indian citizens who hold a valid multiple-entry visa for countries like the USA, UK, Canada, or Schengen states, and possess a return or onward ticket. As with any international travel, you will still need a passport with at least six months of validity. It's also standard practice to carry copies of your return flight details and accommodation bookings. For stays longer than 30 days, a visa will still be required.
A Handshake Across Continents
This visa-free initiative is part of a much larger strategic vision. India and Uzbekistan have elevated their relationship to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership', aiming to deepen cooperation across various sectors. President Mirziyoyev called India a "reliable strategic partner," highlighting that bilateral trade crossed the $1 billion mark for the first time in 2025. The two nations have set an ambitious trade target of $5 billion by 2030. The visa waiver, along with a tourism cooperation program for 2026-2028, is designed to fuel people-to-people connections, business ventures, and cultural exchange. Adding to the convenience, an agreement will also allow Indian travellers to use UPI for payments via Uzbekistan's local UZQR system.
Why You Should Visit Uzbekistan
Beyond the ease of entry, Uzbekistan is a treasure trove of history and culture. Its cities are jewels of the ancient Silk Road, offering breathtaking architecture and vibrant bazaars. In Samarkand, the majestic Registan Square is a must-see, with its three grand madrasas adorned in intricate blue tiles. The old city of Bukhara is a living museum, perfect for getting lost in its winding lanes and exploring centuries-old mosques and trading domes. Meanwhile, the walled inner city of Khiva, known as Itchan Kala, feels like stepping back in time. The modern capital, Tashkent, offers a different experience with its ornate metro stations, bustling Chorsu Bazaar, and a blend of Soviet-era and modern architecture.
A Quick Travel Checklist
Planning a trip? The best times to visit are during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. Currently, there are around 14 direct flights operating between India and Uzbekistan weekly, making connectivity straightforward. The local currency is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS); while the UPI integration is in the works, it's wise to carry some cash, as credit cards are not universally accepted outside major hotels. English is not widely spoken outside of the main tourist hubs and Tashkent, so learning a few basic Russian or Uzbek phrases can go a long way. Finally, dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, to respect local customs.
