How to Secure Your Uzbekistan Tourist Visa: Steps, Options, and New Visa-Free Pathways

Discover everything you need to know about entering Uzbekistan as a visitor—from picking the right visa category and applying online to taking advantage of upcoming visa-free schemes. By the end, you’ll understand every option, requirement, and insider update that will help you plan a seamless trip.

Visa Categories and Who Can Visit Without a Visa

Uzbekistan offers multiple ways for travelers to enter, whether you need a visa or qualify for visa-free entry.

Tourist, Business, Transit and More

Tourist visa (single- or multiple-entry)
Business visa (requires Letter of Invitation)
Transit visa (up to 72 hours)
Student, work and diplomatic visas (specialized requirements)

E-Visa

Apply online at the official e-Visa portal{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}
Validity: up to 30 days, single entry
Processing time: 3 business days

Visa on Arrival

Available only if you hold a valid LOI issued by an Uzbek travel agency or State Committee

Visa-Free Access

U.S. citizens can enjoy a 30-day stay starting June 1, 2025{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}
Children under 16{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”} (any nationality) when traveling with a legal guardian: same duration as the guardian’s visa, up to 90 days
Citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman: 30-day stay from June 2025 (see Reuters link above)
Nationals of Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan may enter with their national ID cards

Step-by-Step Application Process

Choose your visa type based on purpose and nationality.
Gather required documents:
Passport scan (valid for ≥ 6 months)
Passport-style photo
Travel itinerary or hotel reservation
Letter of Invitation (if needed)
Complete the online form at the official e-Visa portal or submit to the nearest embassy.
Pay the fee (see next section).
Await approval (trackable online).
Receive e-visa via email—print and carry with you.

“Completing your e-visa application accurately the first time can save weeks in processing.” – Tim Johnson, International Travel Consultant

Fees, Processing Times and Common Pitfalls

E-Visa fee: typically USD 20–25{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}, depending on nationality
Embassy visa fee: varies widely—check local rates
Processing: 3–5 business days (express options may be available)

Common mistakes to avoid:
– Uploading incorrect passport scans
– Missing signature on application
– Applying too close to travel date

Organizational Invitations and Work-Related Requirements

If you’re not traveling purely for tourism, there are extra steps:

Invitation from a legal entity must include:
Official letter on company letterhead
Power of attorney for the applicant
Employment order or proof of invitation
Work visa also requires a labor migration certificate from the Agency for Foreign Labor Migration{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}

Uzbekistan’s Tourism Targets: Growth and Opportunity

According to the State Committee for Tourism Development of Uzbekistan, the country aims to welcome 15.8 million foreign visitors and generate USD 4 billion in tourism revenue this year, while domestic tourism is expected to reach 40 million outings. This push means more investment in new hotels, guided tours and travel infrastructure—making your visit richer and more comfortable. Learn more on the official tourism development site{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}.

What’s on the Horizon for Visa Policy

Mutual visa-relaxation talks with the United States promise easier travel for Uzbek nationals (see Reuters link above).
Saudi Arabia has restored e-visa access for Uzbek citizens, reflecting strong regional cooperation—details are available on the official e-Visa portal{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}.
Ongoing reviews could further expand ID-card entry agreements within Central Asia.

Ready to Discover Uzbekistan?

Whether you plan to stroll the Silk Road streets of Bukhara, trek in the Nuratau Range, or marvel at Tashkent’s modern skyline, Uzbekistan’s evolving visa framework makes it easier than ever. Prepare your documents, pick the right visa route, and watch for the upcoming visa-free options launching in June 2025. See you there!