The Big News: Visa-Free Entry
Uzbekistan has implemented a new policy granting Indian passport holders a visa-free stay of up to 30 days. This development was confirmed by the Embassy of India in Tashkent and follows an announcement by Uzbekistan's President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aimed
at boosting tourism and strengthening ties with India. The initiative is designed to simplify travel for both leisure and business purposes, making the historic nation more accessible than ever. However, this benefit comes with specific conditions and doesn't apply to all Indian citizens.
The Key Condition: Holding a 'Select' Visa
The visa-free arrangement is conditional. To qualify, an Indian citizen must hold a valid, multiple-entry tourist or business visa from a specific list of developed countries. According to the official announcement, these countries are the United States, the United Kingdom, Schengen Agreement member states, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea. If you have a valid multiple-entry visa from any of these nations, you can benefit from this new rule. Those who do not meet this requirement will still need to apply for an appropriate Uzbek visa through the standard process.
How It Works: The Practical Details
Eligible travellers must present two key things upon arrival in Uzbekistan. First is their Indian passport containing the valid multiple-entry visa from one of the approved countries. Second, they must hold a confirmed air ticket for a return flight to their country of origin or an onward flight to a third country. This rule ensures that visitors intend to stay for a limited period as allowed by the visa-free scheme. The policy officially came into effect on September 1, 2026, as per a presidential decree signed in late August.
Why This Is a Game-Changer for Travellers
This policy positions Uzbekistan as an incredibly attractive and convenient destination for a significant number of Indian travellers who frequently visit or hold visas for Western countries. It removes the extra step and cost of obtaining a separate visa, making spontaneous trips or multi-country itineraries much simpler. The move is a strategic effort by Uzbekistan to increase its tourism numbers from India, which have already seen substantial growth in recent years. In 2025, Indian visitors were the ninth-largest group of tourists in the country. This new ease of access is expected to push that number even higher.
Discovering Uzbekistan: More Than Just a Visa Stamp
With the logistical hurdles lowered, Indian tourists can more easily explore Uzbekistan's wealth of attractions. The country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the legendary cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. These ancient hubs along the Silk Road are famous for their breathtaking Islamic architecture, including grand mosques, intricate mausoleums, and sprawling public squares. Beyond the history, travellers can immerse themselves in vibrant bazaars, enjoy unique local cuisine, and experience the renowned Central Asian hospitality. The initiative builds on growing cultural and economic ties, with bilateral trade recently crossing the USD 1 billion mark.
