The New 30-Day Visa-Free Rule
In a move designed to strengthen ties and boost tourism, Uzbekistan is now permitting eligible Indian citizens to enter and stay in the country for up to 30 days without requiring a visa. This development was confirmed by the Embassy of India in Tashkent
and follows an announcement made by Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The new policy significantly extends the ease of access for many Indians who previously needed to apply for an e-Visa for shorter stays. It simplifies travel planning and allows for a more immersive experience in this historically rich Central Asian nation.
Who Is Eligible for This Offer?
The visa-free facility is not for all Indian passport holders, and the eligibility criteria are specific. To qualify, an Indian citizen must hold a valid multiple-entry business or tourist visa issued by one of several designated countries. These countries include the United States, the United Kingdom, Schengen Agreement member states, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea. In addition to holding one of these visas, travelers must also have a confirmed return air ticket to India or a ticket for onward travel to a third country. Indian citizens who do not meet these specific conditions are still required to obtain an appropriate visa through the standard process.
Why This Change Is a Game-Changer
This policy shift is part of Uzbekistan's broader strategy to become a major tourism hub in Central Asia. The government has been actively working to attract more visitors, with India being identified as a key strategic market. The visa waiver is expected to significantly boost people-to-people connections, business travel, and tourism. Last year, bilateral trade between the two nations surpassed one billion US dollars for the first time, and the number of joint ventures has increased sevenfold in recent years. With 14 direct flights operating between India and Uzbekistan every week, this new rule is poised to build on that growing momentum.
Planning Your Extended Uzbek Adventure
A 30-day stay provides ample time to explore beyond the capital, Tashkent. You can now plan a comprehensive journey along the ancient Silk Road. Spend time in Samarkand, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Registan Square and grand mausoleums. From there, travel to Bukhara, another heritage city with a labyrinthine old town, centuries-old mosques, and bustling bazaars. Don’t miss Khiva, a perfectly preserved walled city that feels like an open-air museum. The extended duration allows for a more relaxed pace, letting you soak in the culture, savour the local cuisine—like the famous plov—and interact with the famously hospitable Uzbek people.
Essential Things to Keep in Mind
While the visa process is now simpler for many, some rules still apply. Upon arrival, foreigners are typically required to register their stay with local authorities, a process often handled by hotels. It's crucial to ensure your passport has sufficient validity and to carry printouts of your qualifying multiple-entry visa and your confirmed flight tickets. The local currency is the Uzbek som, and while credit cards are accepted in larger establishments in Tashkent, carrying cash is advisable for smaller towns and markets. This new rule simplifies entry, but preparation remains key to a smooth and enjoyable journey.
