Why the Online Visa Application for Uzbekistan Is Your Gateway to the Silk Road
The online visa application for Uzbekistan is now easier than ever, replacing embassy visits and long waits with a simple online process. Since 2018, citizens of over 70 countries can apply for an e-visa for tourism or business through the official government portal. The application takes minutes, costs $20-$50, and is processed in 2-3 working days.
Quick Facts:
- Who qualifies: Citizens from 70+ countries for tourism or business
- Processing time: 2-3 working days
- Cost: $20 (single-entry), $35 (double-entry), $50 (multiple-entry)
- Validity: 90 days from issue date
- Stay duration: Up to 30 consecutive days per visit
- Required documents: Valid passport (6+ months validity) and digital passport photo
This streamlined system allows you to fill out a form, upload documents, pay with a Visa card, and receive your approved e-visa by email. No mailing passports or scheduling appointments.
While many travelers enjoy visa-free entry, the e-visa is a fast and reliable option for those who need it.
I’m Nariman Huseynov from visato.uz. For five years, I’ve helped thousands of travelers steer the online visa application for Uzbekistan. I’ve seen how this system transformed a complex process into something anyone can do in minutes.
Do You Need a Visa? Check Your Eligibility First
Before starting your online visa application for Uzbekistan, check if you need a visa. Uzbekistan has opened its doors, and many travelers may not need one at all.
Who Can Apply for an E-Visa?
If you need a visa, the e-visa system is simple. Citizens from over 70 countries (including the USA, Canada, most of Europe, Australia, and more) can apply online for both tourist and business travel. The process is entirely online, with no embassy visits required.
If you have dual citizenship, you can apply for an e-visa if one of your passports is from an eligible country. Be sure to use the same passport for the application and for entry into Uzbekistan to avoid issues at the border.
For a complete list of eligible countries, see more information about Uzbekistan e-visa requirements.
Visa-Free Entry Rules
Many travelers can enter Uzbekistan without a visa. The rules are generous and vary by nationality and other factors.
- Up to 60 days: Citizens of CIS countries (Commonwealth of Independent States).
- Up to 30 days: Citizens from dozens of countries, including many European nations.
- Up to 10 days: Citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and China (including Hong Kong) with proof of onward travel.
- Special Categories (up to 30 days):
- UAE residents with a residency visa valid for at least 90 days.
- US citizens aged 55 and older traveling for tourism.
- Children under 16 can enter visa-free with a legal guardian who has a valid visa or is eligible for visa-free entry. The child’s stay is limited to their guardian’s visa validity (up to 90 days).
Visa policies can change, so always double-check your status before booking. You can find current information via the official visa information from the Government of Uzbekistan. Checking your eligibility first might save you the step of an online visa application for Uzbekistan.
Understanding the Uzbekistan E-Visa: Types, Validity, and Costs
When you complete an online visa application for Uzbekistan, you receive an official electronic travel authorization. This digital document permits entry for tourism, business, or short medical visits.
The e-visa allows a stay of up to 30 consecutive days per visit and is valid for 90 days from its issue date, giving you a three-month window to travel. You can choose from single, double, or multiple-entry options.
A crucial point: the e-visa cannot be extended. Your 30-day stay is final, so plan your itinerary accordingly. For more details on using the e-visa for tourism, see our guide: More info about Uzbekistan e-visa for tourism.
E-Visa Types and Fees
Uzbekistan’s e-visa pricing is straightforward and based on the number of entries, not nationality.
- Single-Entry: $20 USD. Allows one entry for a stay of up to 30 days.
- Double-Entry: $35 USD. Allows two entries, each for a stay of up to 30 days.
- Multiple-Entry: $50 USD. Allows unlimited entries, each for a stay of up to 30 days.
| E-Visa Type | Cost (USD) | Maximum Stay per Entry | Validity Period (from Issue Date) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Entry | 20 | 30 days | 90 days |
| Double-Entry | 35 | 30 days | 90 days |
| Multiple-Entry | 50 | 30 days | 90 days |
Payment on the official portal is by Visa card only, so ensure your card is enabled for international online transactions. All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied or you make an error.
How Long is the E-Visa Valid For?
Your e-visa is valid for 90 days from its issue date. This is your window to enter Uzbekistan. For example, an e-visa issued on March 1st is valid for entry until May 30th.
Upon arrival, a new 30-day clock starts. You can stay for up to 30 consecutive days from your entry date. Even if you enter on the last day of your e-visa’s 90-day validity (May 30th in our example), you are still granted a full 30-day stay. This principle applies to each entry on double and multiple-entry visas. Always check the “valid from” and “valid until” dates on your e-visa to plan your trip correctly.
Your Step-by-Step Online Visa Application for Uzbekistan
The online visa application for Uzbekistan is a straightforward process that takes about 15-20 minutes with your documents ready. Everything is done online, with no need for embassy appointments.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents for the Online Visa Application for Uzbekistan
Having your documents prepared is key to a smooth application. You will need:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months after your planned departure from Uzbekistan and have at least one blank page.
- Digital Passport Copy: A clear, readable scan or photo of your passport’s biographical page (the one with your photo). The file must be under 500KB.
- Passport-Style Photograph: A recent (within 3 months) digital photo, approximately 35x40mm with 300 dpi resolution. It should have a plain, light background, with your face centered and taking up 70-80% of the frame. No hats or sunglasses (unless for religious reasons). The file must be under 500KB.
Checking your passport’s expiry date and photo specifications beforehand can prevent common application delays.
Step 2: Completing the Online Visa Application for Uzbekistan Form
Head to the official government portal at e-visa.gov.uz/main to begin.
The form will guide you through entering your information:
- Travel Details: Select your nationality, passport type (usually “ordinary”), purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, business), and planned entry/exit dates. These dates are indicative, as your e-visa has a 90-day validity window.
- Personal Information: Enter your full name, date of birth, passport number, and other details exactly as they appear on your passport. Accuracy is critical to avoid issues at the border.
- Document Upload: Attach the digital passport copy and photograph you prepared.
- Email Address: Provide a valid email address you check regularly. Your approved e-visa will be sent here.
Before paying, carefully review the summary page. Compare all details against your passport. An error on an issued e-visa cannot be corrected; you must reapply and pay the fee again. A few minutes of double-checking can save you money and stress.
Step 3: Payment and Confirmation
The final step is paying the consular fee: $20 for single-entry, $35 for double-entry, or $50 for multiple-entry. The portal only accepts Visa card payments, so ensure your card is enabled for international transactions.
After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email containing a link and an access code to track your application’s status. Save this email. You have now successfully submitted your application.
After You Apply: Processing, Arrival, and Key Travel Rules
After submitting your online visa application for Uzbekistan, the process moves quickly. Here’s what to expect next, from receiving your visa to navigating arrival procedures.
Processing Time and Receiving Your E-Visa
Most e-visa applications are processed within 2-3 working days. It’s wise to apply at least three business days before your trip to allow for any delays. Your approved e-visa will arrive as a PDF in your email. If it doesn’t arrive, check your spam folder, then use your access code on the portal to check the status. For issues, contact e-visa technical support at (+998 71) 200-00-88 or info@evisa.gov.uz.
Crucially, you must print your e-visa and carry a physical copy. Digital versions on your phone or tablet are not accepted at immigration.
Arrival in Uzbekistan: Entry and Registration
At immigration, present your passport and the printed e-visa. The officer will stamp your passport, and you’ll be on your way.
A mandatory step for all foreign visitors is registration within three days of arrival. Failure to register can result in fines.
- Staying in a hotel/hostel: Your accommodation will handle registration for you and provide a registration slip. Confirm this with them and keep the slip safe.
- Staying with friends/private rental: Your host must register you through the local OVIR office or the E-Mehmon online system.
Each time you change accommodation, you must be re-registered. For more details, see our guide on More info about registration in Uzbekistan.
Important Health and Customs Information
- Health: While most COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, masks may still be required in public areas. Always check the latest health advice before traveling. The CDC provides current information for travelers to Uzbekistan: Latest Travel Health Information from the CDC.
- Customs: You must declare currency if you are carrying $2,000 USD or more. You cannot leave the country with more foreign currency than you declared upon arrival.
- Medication: Carry prescription medication in its original packaging with a doctor’s prescription. Check if your specific medications are restricted in Uzbekistan to avoid issues at customs.
Special Travel Scenarios and Other Visa Options
The online visa application for Uzbekistan is ideal for short tourist and business trips. However, some situations require a different approach.
Requirements for Business Travelers
The e-visa system offers a business option for activities like conferences, negotiations, or partner meetings. The application process is the same as for a tourist e-visa, but you will also need an invitation letter (Telex) from your host company in Uzbekistan. This letter must be approved by the Uzbek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Your Uzbek partner typically arranges this.
For a detailed guide on business travel, see our resource: More info about Uzbekistan business e-visa.
What If I’m Not Eligible for an E-Visa?
If your country is not on the e-visa eligibility list, or if you plan to stay for longer than 30 days, you must apply for a traditional visa at an Uzbek Embassy or Consulate. The e-visa is strictly for stays up to 30 days and cannot be extended.
The traditional visa process involves more paperwork, longer processing times, and obtaining a visa support letter approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This is the required path for long-term work, study, or investment. For specific requirements, contact the nearest Embassy of Uzbekistan. While we at Visato specialize in e-visas, we encourage travelers with different needs to consult official sources to ensure a smooth process.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Uzbekistan E-Visa
Here are answers to common questions about the online visa application for Uzbekistan.
What should I do if there is an error on my e-visa?
An e-visa cannot be amended once issued. If you find any error—a misspelled name, incorrect passport number, or wrong date—you must apply for a new e-visa and pay the fee again. Fees are non-refundable. This is why it is critical to double-check all information for accuracy before submitting your application.
Can I extend my 30-day stay on an e-visa?
No, Uzbekistan e-visas are not extendable. The maximum stay is 30 consecutive days. Overstaying can lead to serious penalties, including fines and future entry bans. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for a traditional visa through an Uzbek embassy before your trip.
Do children need their own e-visa?
Children under 16 do not need their own e-visa if they are traveling with a legal guardian who has a valid visa or is eligible for visa-free entry. The child’s stay is limited to the validity of their guardian’s visa (up to a maximum of 90 days). This simplifies the online visa application for Uzbekistan process for families.
Conclusion
The online visa application for Uzbekistan has transformed a once-complex process into a simple online task, opening the door to Central Asia’s treasures. This guide has covered everything from eligibility and application steps to arrival procedures.
To ensure a smooth process, remember these key points:
- Verify eligibility: You may qualify for visa-free entry.
- Prepare documents: Have your valid passport and correct digital photo ready.
- Ensure accuracy: Double-check all details, as e-visas cannot be amended.
- Print your e-visa: A physical copy is mandatory for immigration.
- Register on arrival: Complete your mandatory registration within three days.
- Plan your stay: E-visas are for a maximum of 30 days and cannot be extended.
Getting to Uzbekistan has never been easier. The turquoise domes of Samarkand and the busy bazaars of Bukhara are just an e-visa away.
While the process is straightforward, managing visa applications can be stressful. That’s where Visato.uz can help. We handle your entire online visa application for Uzbekistan, ensuring accuracy, managing the submission, and providing dedicated support. Let our experienced team guide you.
Your Silk Road adventure awaits.
