Uzbekistan Announces 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Indian Travellers

Indian travellers have a new reason to add Central Asia to their travel bucket list. Uzbekistan has announced a 30-day visa-free entry regime for Indian citizens, making travel to the country significantly easier. The announcement was made by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Tashkent on August 30, 2026.

The new policy is expected to encourage tourism, business travel and stronger people-to-people connections between India and Uzbekistan. The two countries have also signed a 2026–2028 tourism cooperation programme aimed at increasing tourist exchanges and developing new travel routes.

What Does the New Uzbekistan Visa-Free Rule Mean for Indians?

Under the newly announced arrangement, Indian passport holders can travel to Uzbekistan for up to 30 days without obtaining an advance tourist visa or e-visa. The move removes one of the key hurdles for Indians planning a holiday in the Central Asian country.

Travellers should still check the latest official entry requirements before departure, including passport validity and any registration requirements.

Uzbekistan's official government information states that foreign visitors generally need a passport with at least six months of validity remaining, while foreign nationals staying in the country must comply with local registration rules.

Better Air Connectivity Between India and Uzbekistan

The visa-free announcement comes alongside improving air connectivity between the two countries.

There are currently 14 scheduled nonstop flights per week between Delhi and Tashkent, operated by multiple airlines, making the journey more convenient for Indian travellers.

The increased connectivity gives travellers more flexibility when planning short breaks, week-long holidays or longer Central Asian itineraries.
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Why Uzbekistan Is Worth Visiting

Uzbekistan is known for its remarkable Silk Road heritage, historic cities, colourful bazaars and Islamic architecture.

Tashkent

The country's capital is a convenient starting point for an Uzbekistan holiday. Travellers can explore its modern cityscape, museums, markets and cultural attractions before travelling to other historic destinations.

Samarkand

Samarkand is one of Uzbekistan's most famous destinations and is known for spectacular landmarks such as Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda and the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Its rich history makes it a major attraction for travellers interested in the Silk Road.

Bukhara

Bukhara offers a more traditional historical atmosphere, with ancient mosques, madrasas, markets and narrow streets showcasing centuries of Central Asian heritage.

Khiva

For travellers looking for a more atmospheric experience, Khiva's walled old city, Itchan Kala, offers an impressive collection of historic buildings and architectural landmarks.

A Good Time for Indian Travellers to Explore Central Asia

The new visa-free policy could make Uzbekistan particularly attractive for Indian travellers looking for an international holiday without complicated visa preparation.

A 6–8 day itinerary can cover major destinations such as Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, while longer trips can include Khiva and other parts of the country.

The combination of easier entry, direct air connectivity and Uzbekistan's relatively compact tourism circuit could make it an increasingly popular choice for Indian holidaymakers.

India-Uzbekistan Tourism Ties Set to Grow

The two countries have agreed to strengthen tourism cooperation through the newly signed 2026–2028 Tourism Cooperation Programme. Plans include new joint tourism routes, cultural events, film festivals and other initiatives designed to increase travel between India and Uzbekistan.

The introduction of the 30-day visa-free regime is expected to further support these efforts by making international travel between the two countries easier.

What Indian Travellers Should Know

Before booking a trip, Indian travellers should:

• Check the latest Uzbekistan entry requirements.

• Ensure their passport has sufficient validity.

• Confirm flight schedules before booking.

• Check accommodation and local registration requirements.

• Keep travel insurance and essential documents accessible.

• Verify the latest rules through official government sources before departure.

Conclusion

Uzbekistan's 30-day visa-free entry for Indian citizens marks a major change for travellers looking to explore Central Asia. With historic cities, spectacular architecture, Silk Road heritage and growing direct air connectivity, the country could soon become one of the more accessible international destinations for Indian tourists.