Uzbekistan, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers from around the world. However, before you embark on your journey to this Central Asian gem, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements and the process of obtaining one. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about getting a visa for Uzbekistan.
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- Do I Need a Visa for Uzbekistan?
- How to Get a Visa for Uzbekistan
- How Long Does an Uzbek Visa Take?
- Uzbekistan Visa for US Citizens
1. Do I Need A Visa For Uzbekistan?
No Visa Required
First things first, let’s determine whether you need a visa to enter Uzbekistan. Citizens of many countries can enjoy a visa-free stay of up to 30 days. Here’s a list of countries whose citizens do not need a visa to enter Uzbekistan:
Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Republic of Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United Arab Emirates (including residents), Vatican.
Additionally, citizens of Kyrgyzstan can enter Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 60 days.
Visa Required
Citizens of the following countries do require a visa to enter Uzbekistan:
Albania, Algeria, Angola, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Bolivia, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, China, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador, Egypt, Fiji, Gabon, Ghana, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Jordan, Kiribati, North Korea, Kuwait, Laos, Lebanon, Macedonia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Morocco, Nauru, Nepal, Oman, Palau, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Thailand, Tonga, Tunisia, United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam.
In total, 86 countries do not need a visa to visit Uzbekistan, while 58 countries do require a visa for entry.
2. How To Get A Visa For Uzbekistan
For travelers who require a visa to enter Uzbekistan, there are two primary options for obtaining one:
Uzbek Embassy Application
You can apply for a visa at your local Uzbek embassy or consulate. This traditional method involves submitting your application in person, providing necessary documents, and paying the visa fee. While it’s a viable option, it can be more time-consuming and complicated compared to the alternative.
E-Visa Application
The more convenient and straightforward option for many travelers is to apply for an e-Visa through the Uzbek government’s official e-Visa portal. Here’s how it works:
- Visit the official Uzbekistan e-Visa website.
- Complete the online application form, providing standard personal information such as your name, passport details, and intended travel dates.
- Specify your accommodation details in Uzbekistan.
- Upload a recent passport-sized photo as per the provided guidelines.
- Pay the visa fee online.
The e-Visa application process is typically quick and hassle-free.
3. How Long Does An Uzbek Visa Take?
Visa processing times are generally quite quick, with most applications being processed within 2 to 3 working days (excluding weekends and public holidays). However, to avoid any last-minute complications, it’s recommended to apply for your visa well in advance of your intended travel dates.
4. Uzbekistan Visas For US Citizens
US citizens DO need a visa for travel in Uzbekistan UNLESS they are aged 55 years or older. US citizens who are under 16 are also able to travel visa free so long as they are accompanied by their legal guardian who will need to abide by the relevant visa rules.
Check the up to date entry, exit and visa requirements on the US government website.
In summary, obtaining a visa for Uzbekistan is a relatively straightforward process, especially if you opt for the convenient e-Visa option. By understanding the visa requirements and following the necessary steps, you can look forward to exploring the beautiful landscapes, historic cities, and warm hospitality that Uzbekistan has to offer. Enjoy your adventure in this enchanting Central Asian country!