Why Understanding Your Uzbekistan Visa Options Matters
Applying for an Uzbekistan visa application is easier than ever, thanks to the electronic visa system introduced in 2018. Here’s what you need to know:
Quick Answer: How to Apply for an Uzbekistan Visa
- Check if you need a visa – Citizens of 90+ countries can enter visa-free for 30-60 days.
- Apply for an e-visa online – Visit e-visa.gov.uz at least 3 working days before travel.
- Pay $20 USD – Processing takes 2-3 business days.
- Print your approved e-visa – Carry it with your passport when entering Uzbekistan.
Special exemptions:
- Children under 16 (with legal guardian)
- U.S. citizens over 55 (tourism only, up to 30 days)
- Transit passengers (up to 5 days with onward ticket)
Whether you’re exploring Samarkand, doing business in Tashkent, or transiting through, understanding your visa requirements is the first step to a smooth journey. The good news is that most travelers can now skip the embassy visit and apply online.
The government has streamlined its visa policies, offering three main options: the electronic visa (e-visa), the traditional paper visa from an embassy, or visa-free entry for eligible nationalities.
This guide covers everything from eligibility checks to completing your Uzbekistan visa application online. We’ll also detail post-arrival requirements like local registration and currency declaration rules that many travelers overlook.
I’m Nariman Huseynov of Visato.uz. Over the past 5 years, I’ve helped thousands of travelers with their Uzbekistan visa application process. I’ll share the key steps and requirements to help you avoid common mistakes and delays.
Do You Need a Visa for Uzbekistan? Check Your Eligibility
You might not need a visa at all. Before starting your Uzbekistan visa application, check if you can skip it. Uzbekistan has greatly expanded its visa-free options in recent years.
Visa-Free Entry Options
Uzbekistan welcomes citizens from over 90 countries visa-free. Qualification depends on your nationality and planned length of stay.
Citizens of the EU, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea, and Japan can visit for up to 30 days visa-free for tourism. Simply arrive with a valid passport.
Citizens from several Asian and CIS countries can stay for 60 days visa-free, offering ample time to explore the country’s historic sites.
Chinese citizens (from mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macau) in tour groups of five or more can visit visa-free for 10 days, provided all members are over 55 years old.
Children under 16 do not need a visa if they are traveling with a legal guardian and have a valid passport. Their stay duration matches their guardian’s visa, up to 90 days. You can verify details on the Embassy of Uzbekistan website.
Travelers over 55 from certain countries receive special treatment. For instance, U.S. citizens over 55 can visit visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism.
Uzbekistan also offers a 5-day visa-free transit at its international airports. You need an onward ticket for a flight departing within 5 days, and your airline must inform border authorities of your transit.
Information for US and Indian Citizens
Here are specifics for two frequently asked-about nationalities.
U.S. citizens under 16 or over 55 (for tourism, up to 30 days) can enter visa-free. Others need a visa. The e-visa is available for tourism stays of 30 days or less. For longer visits, business, or study, a traditional embassy visa is required. The U.S. Embassy in Tashkent does not assist with Uzbekistan visa applications; you must apply online or through Uzbek authorities.
Indian citizens are eligible for the e-visa, which makes the Uzbekistan visa application process simple. They can also use the 5-day visa-free transit option at international airports with a valid onward ticket.
Visa policies can change. Always double-check the latest requirements on the official e-visa portal or with the nearest Uzbek embassy before booking travel.
Understanding the Different Types of Uzbek Visas
Uzbekistan’s visa system offers options for every type of traveler. Whether you’re on a business trip, a long vacation, or just passing through, there’s a visa for you. Let’s review the options for your Uzbekistan visa application.
Electronic Visa (E-Visa)
The e-visa is the most popular option because it’s fast, simple, and can be completed entirely online. It’s the perfect choice for both tourism and business purposes.
You can select single, double, or multiple entry options to fit your itinerary. A multiple-entry e-visa is ideal if you plan to visit neighboring countries and return to Uzbekistan.
The standard e-visa is valid for a 30-day stay within a 90-day period from its issue date. You can apply through the government’s portal at e-visa.gov.uz. For expert assistance and a smooth process, Visato.uz processes tourist and business e-visas securely, with a typical turnaround of 2-3 business days.
Traditional Sticker Visa (Paper Visa)
If the e-visa doesn’t fit your needs, you’ll need a traditional sticker visa. The process is more involved but manageable and requires applying through an Embassy or Consulate of Uzbekistan.
For business or extended stays, you often need a visa support letter (Letter of Invitation or LOI). This is arranged by a host organization in Uzbekistan through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and serves as an official sponsorship.
A paper visa is necessary if you plan to stay longer than 30 days or if your nationality is not eligible for an e-visa. It is also required for study or work purposes.
For detailed information, consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Transit Visa
For layovers, Uzbekistan offers a transit visa, although many travelers qualify for the 5-day visa-free transit option mentioned earlier.
A dedicated transit visa allows a stay of up to 72 hours. You must provide proof of an onward flight ticket to a third country. Applications are typically made at an Uzbek consular mission, with a fee of $40 USD plus a $15 processing charge.
Group Visa
Traveling in a group can save you money with a group visa. This option is available for tourist groups of at least 10 people.
The fee is reduced to $15 per person plus a single $15 processing charge for the entire group for stays up to 15 days, offering significant savings compared to individual applications.
If you’re unsure which visa is right for you, our team at Visato.uz can guide your Uzbekistan visa application in the right direction.
How to Complete Your Uzbekistan Visa Application Online (E-Visa)
The online Uzbekistan visa application is simple and can be completed from home, saving you a trip to the embassy. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Gather Your Required Documents
Before you begin, gather all your required documents to ensure a smooth application process.
- Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 90 days after your planned departure from Uzbekistan and have at least one blank page.
- Digital passport-style photo: A recent color photo with a plain background. Look straight at the camera, with no sunglasses. A smartphone photo against a white wall is usually acceptable.
- Scanned copy of your passport’s main page: The page with your photo and personal information must be clear and legible.
- Credit or debit card: Visa or MasterCard for the $20 USD fee.
Step 2: Fill Out the Online Uzbekistan Visa Application Form
Go to the official government portal at e-visa.gov.uz. Bookmark this site to avoid fraudulent copycats.
Select your country of citizenship, passport type, and purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, business).
Enter your travel dates accurately, as your visa’s validity is tied to them.
Next, enter your personal information and passport details exactly as they appear on your passport. Double-check your name, passport number, and dates for accuracy. One wrong digit can cause delays.
Finally, upload your documents (digital photo and passport scan), ensuring they meet the portal’s file size and format requirements.
Take your time with this step. Accuracy is key to a fast approval.
Step 3: Pay the Fee and Submit Your Uzbekistan Visa Application
After carefully reviewing all your information, you’re ready to pay the fee.
The e-visa fee is $20 USD. The portal uses a secure payment process for Visa and MasterCard. After payment, you will officially submit your Uzbekistan visa application.
You should receive a confirmation email shortly after submission. This email confirms your application is being processed. If you don’t see it, check your spam folder.
Step 4: Receive Your E-Visa and Check its Status
The official processing time is 3 working days. At Visato.uz, we find most applications are approved within 2-3 business days.
Your approved e-visa will arrive by email. Review it carefully to ensure all information is correct.
You must print your e-visa and carry the physical copy with you. While officers can often verify it electronically, a printout can prevent potential issues at the border. Keep it with your passport.
You can check your application status anytime at e-visa.gov.uz using your application details.
Once you have your printed e-visa, you’re ready to experience Uzbekistan!
Important Information for Your Trip to Uzbekistan
With your visa sorted, it’s time to understand a few crucial post-arrival requirements. Knowing these rules will help you avoid paperwork and focus on your adventure.
Mandatory Registration for Foreigners
A rule that surprises many visitors is the mandatory registration for all foreign nationals within three days of arrival. This is not optional; failure to register can result in fines or departure complications.
If you’re staying at a hotel, guesthouse, or hostel, they will handle the registration for you and provide a registration slip. Keep this slip safe, as you’ll need it when you leave.
If you’re staying in a private residence, you or your host must register at the local OVIR (Office of Visas and Registration). Discuss this with your host before you arrive.
You must maintain uninterrupted registration for your entire stay. Each new hotel should provide an updated registration. Immigration officers will check your registration slips upon departure to verify your compliance.
Treat your registration slips like your passport; they are proof of your legal stay.
Currency Declaration and Restrictions
Uzbekistan has specific currency rules. Understanding them will prevent issues at customs.
Upon arrival, you must declare any amount equivalent to $2,000 USD or more on a customs form. It’s wise to declare any significant amount of cash to be safe.
Crucially, you cannot leave Uzbekistan with more foreign currency than you declared upon entry. For example, if you declared $3,000, you cannot exit with $4,000. Excess funds may be confiscated.
There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring in, but all amounts of $2,000 USD or more must be declared. A mix of cash and cards is recommended.
Contacting Consular Services
Knowing who to contact for official help provides peace of mind.
For visa policy questions, contact the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at 3A, Amir Temur Street, Tashkent, 100047. Phone: (+998 71) 236-27-07. General hotline: +998 71 200 00 88. For more information, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
For assistance specific to your nationality, contact your country’s embassy. For example, U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent at +(998) (78) 120-5450. The embassy can provide consular assistance but does not handle Uzbek visa applications.
Save these numbers in your phone before you travel. The Visato.uz team offers 24/7 support for any visa questions before or during your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Uzbekistan Visa
We’ve covered a lot of ground, but you might still have some lingering questions. Let’s tackle the most common ones about your Uzbekistan visa application.
How long is an Uzbekistan visa valid for?
The validity of your Uzbekistan visa depends on the type you get.
- An e-visa for tourism or business allows a 30-day stay. The visa itself is valid for 90 days from its issue date, giving you a three-month window to enter the country.
- Traditional paper visas offer more flexibility, with validity ranging from 7 days to a full year, depending on your travel purpose.
- A transit visa is valid for up to 72 hours (3 days).
Always double-check the dates printed on your visa to ensure they match your travel plans.
What are the visa fees for Uzbekistan?
Visa fees vary by type. The e-visa is the most affordable option at just $20 USD, paid online during your application.
Fees for traditional visas obtained through an embassy are higher and include an administrative charge. Here is a comparison of common visa fees:
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| E-Visa (30 days) | $20 | Single, double, or multiple entry options available. |
| Tourist Visa (30 days) | $40 + $15 | Traditional paper visa obtained via embassy. |
| Single Entry (7 days) | $40 + $15 | Traditional paper visa for short stays. |
| Transit Visa (72 hours) | $40 + $15 | For transiting through Uzbekistan. |
Other fees to note:
- Group Visas: For tourist groups of 10 or more, the fee is $15 per person (for up to 15 days) plus a single $15 administrative charge for the group.
- U.S. Citizens: Visa fees for all types are set at $160.
- Urgent Processing: An optional 50% surcharge can be paid to expedite any visa type.
![TABLE] comparing E-visa, Tourist Visa (30 days), Single Entry (7 days), and Transit Visa fees – uzbekistan visa application infographic pillar-3-steps](https://images.bannerbear.com/direct/4mGpW3zwpg0ZK0AxQw/requests/000/110/252/206/kW7yv9eBdzpO8w0DYNLRwa5Px/7b8441bb6673091dfa9c6467825a48d7a7911d79.jpg)
At Visato.uz, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. What you see is what you pay.
What are the requirements for children under 16 entering Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan’s policies are very family-friendly.
Children under 16 years old enjoy visa-free entry. They do not need a visa, but they must be accompanied by a legal guardian and have their own valid passport or biometric travel document.
The child’s allowed stay duration matches their guardian’s visa, up to a maximum of 90 days. If a child turns 16 during their stay, they will need to obtain an exit visa before leaving the country. This policy makes family travel to Uzbekistan simple and hassle-free!
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Uzbekistan? This guide has shown how this incredible Silk Road country has become one of Central Asia’s most accessible destinations, leaving complex visa procedures in the past.
We’ve covered everything for your Uzbekistan visa application: checking if you’re eligible for visa-free entry, and exploring the different types, from the convenient e-visa to paper, transit, and group visas.
The e-visa has revolutionized travel to Uzbekistan. For just $20 and a few minutes, you can apply online from home. No embassy visits or stress—just a simple form. Your approved e-visa arrives in your inbox in 2-3 business days, ready to print.
We also covered crucial post-arrival details like mandatory registration within three days and currency declaration rules for amounts over $2,000 USD. Following these simple rules ensures a smooth visit.
At Visato.uz, we simplify the Uzbekistan visa application process. With 24/7 support and e-visas delivered in 2-3 business days, we handle the details so you can focus on planning your adventure. We make sure the process is exciting, not stressful.
Uzbekistan’s turquoise domes, busy bazaars, and legendary hospitality are waiting. Your adventure to Samarkand, Bukhara, or Tashkent starts with a simple visa application.
Ready to begin? We’ve made it simple.
