Planning Uzbekistan? Indians Get a 30-Day Visa-Free Window

TASHKENT — In a major diplomatic development, the Government of Uzbekistan announced the immediate introduction of a 30-day visa-free entry regime for all Indian passport holders.

The announcement was made by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during high-level delegation talks with visiting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Tashkent. The policy shift aims to dismantle travel barriers, accelerate bilateral tourism, and simplify commercial exchanges between the two nations. Officials noted that the decision builds upon rapidly expanding connectivity, which currently features 14 direct weekly flights connecting Indian hubs to Uzbek destinations.

Expanding Tourism, Trade, and Bilateral Mobility

President Mirziyoyev formally unveiled the visa waiver during restricted and delegation-level discussions, framing India as a primary strategic partner. Bilateral trade between the two countries recently crossed the $1-billion threshold for the first time, while joint ventures have multiplied sevenfold over recent years.

The new 30-day visa-free framework is expected to directly benefit leisure travelers, corporate investors, and students exploring historic Silk Road destinations in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent. The policy also complements longstanding cultural ties championed by institutions such as the Lal Bahadur Shastri Centre for Indian Culture and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre for Indian Studies in Tashkent. Following his engagements in Uzbekistan, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to travel to Bishkek for the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.

According to official government announcements, diplomatic briefings, and joint statements:

• New Entry Policy: 30-day visa-free travel implemented for ordinary Indian passport holders.

• Announcement Venue: Presidential Palace in Tashkent during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit.

• Connectivity Baseline: Supported by 14 direct weekly flight frequencies operating between India and Uzbekistan.

• Core Objectives: Facilitating seamless tourism, strengthening cross-border commerce, and expanding people-to-people exchanges.

Official Sources Section

• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) India Portal: Official bilateral agreements, state visit itineraries, and diplomatic communiqués.

• Embassy of Uzbekistan in New Delhi: Consular announcements, regulatory entry updates, and travel policy frameworks.

Quote Section

"According to official statements by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the introduction of a 30-day visa-free regime for Indian citizens will make a significant contribution to the development of people-to-people contacts, tourism, and business exchanges."

Why It Matters

For Indian tourists, business executives, and educational exchange participants, the removal of visa formalities substantially lowers travel friction and cost. By streamlining entry procedures, Uzbekistan positions itself as an accessible premier destination for outbound Indian travelers, while opening new pathways for bilateral trade and regional economic integration.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Beneficiaries: Indian citizens holding ordinary passports.

• Duration of Stay: Up to 30 days without a visa.

• Catalyst: Bilateral summit talks between PM Modi and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

• Broader Impact: Expected to drive immediate growth in hospitality, leisure tourism, and enterprise partnerships.

FAQ Section

What are the key terms of Uzbekistan's new visa policy for Indians?

Indian citizens can enter Uzbekistan visa-free for stays of up to 30 days, streamlining entry for tourism and business.

When was the visa-free policy announced?

The policy was officially announced on August 30, 2026, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day state visit to Tashkent.

Do Indian travelers need to apply for an eVisa prior to departure under this new rule?

No, eligible ordinary passport holders can travel under the visa-free framework without securing an advance electronic visa.

Where can travelers check official consular updates and entry requirements?

Updated consular notices and travel guidelines are published directly through the Embassy of Uzbekistan in New Delhi Portal.

Source: Ministry of External Affairs India, Embassy of Uzbekistan in New Delhi, ANI News Reports, The Hindu