Uzbekistan announces visa-free travel for Indians for up to 30 days

Indian passport holders will be able to travel to Uzbekistan without a visa for stays of up to 30 days following an announcement by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tashkent on Aug 30.

The new visa-free regime is aimed at strengthening ties between India and Uzbekistan across tourism, trade, investment, connectivity and cultural exchange.

Previously, Indian travellers were required to apply for and pay for an online e-visa before travelling to Uzbekistan. Under the newly announced regime, Indian tourists will be permitted to stay in the country for up to 30 days without a visa.

Mirziyoyev described India as a reliable strategic partner and highlighted the growth in economic ties between the two countries.

Bilateral trade crossed $1 billion for the first time last year, while the number of joint ventures between India and Uzbekistan has increased sevenfold in recent years, according to the Uzbek President.

The two countries also have 14 direct flights between India and Uzbekistan every week, according to the report by Condé Nast Traveller India.

However, the visa-free arrangement is not yet accompanied by an official implementation date. The implementation decree and start date from Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs are still pending.

Travellers planning to visit soon have been advised to contact the Uzbek Embassy for clarity on the new regime. Those intending to stay for longer periods can continue to apply for an e-visa as previously required.

The visa-free announcement comes as the two countries continue to expand their cultural links. Uzbekistan has institutions including the Lal Bahadur Shastri Centre for Indian Culture and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre for Indian Studies. Yoga has also gained popularity in the country, which established a dedicated Yoga Federation in 2018.

Uzbekistan's major destinations include Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara. Tashkent is known for its metro stations featuring mosaics, chandeliers, sculptures and murals.

Samarkand's historic centre includes the Registan, Bibi-Khanum Mosque, Shahi Zinda and Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, while Bukhara is known for its madrasahs, mosques, bazaars, caravanserais and historic trading domes.

The country also offers attractions including the Fergana Valley, known for its ceramic and silk traditions, as well as yurt camps in desert areas. Uzbek cuisine includes dishes such as plov, manti and shashlik.

The visa-free policy will allow Indian tourists to plan longer visits once the regime officially comes into effect. Until then, travellers have been advised to verify the implementation date and entry requirements with Uzbek authorities.