Uzbekistan has announced a new 30-day visa-free entry facility for Indian citizens — with one important condition. Announced in late August 2026 under a presidential decree (reported as Decree No. PF-180), the facility is not a blanket visa waiver: it applies to Indian passport holders who already hold a valid multiple-entry visa of certain qualifying countries and are travelling onward by air. Here is the complete guide.
Who can use this facility?
Not every Indian traveller — that is the single most important thing to understand. You qualify only if:
- you hold an Indian passport;
- you hold a valid multiple-entry visa of a listed qualifying country (reported to include countries such as the US, UK and Schengen states — always confirm the current official list before you travel); and
- you hold a confirmed onward air ticket out of Uzbekistan.
If you do not hold such a visa, the standard e-visa or consular visa routes remain available.
How long can you stay?
Up to 30 days from the date of entry. Plan your itinerary within this window — overstaying can lead to fines, detention or future travel bans. The final decision on entry always rests with Uzbek immigration officers at the border.
What to see in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is the heart of the historic Silk Road. Highlights include:
- Samarkand — Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda and the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum;
- Bukhara — one of Central Asia’s oldest cities, with stunning madrasas and bazaars;
- Khiva — the walled old city of Itchan Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage site;
- Tashkent — the modern capital, with museums, metro stations and parks.
Before you travel
- Passport: valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, with blank pages.
- Qualifying visa: check that your multiple-entry visa is valid for your entire trip.
- Onward ticket: keep a printed and digital copy of your confirmed onward flight.
- Hotel bookings: carry confirmed accommodation details for immigration checks.
- Travel insurance: strongly recommended for any international trip.
Best time to visit Uzbekistan
The most pleasant months are March to May and September to November, when temperatures are mild. Summers (June to August) can be extremely hot, especially in the desert cities of Bukhara and Khiva, while winters are cold.
Facilities for Indian tourists
Indian restaurants are commonly found in Tashkent and Samarkand, and vegetarian food is generally available in tourist areas. The local currency is the Uzbek som — carry a mix of cash and internationally accepted cards, and confirm card acceptance with your bank before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Is Uzbekistan visa-free for all Indians now? No. The 30-day facility applies only to Indians holding a valid multiple-entry visa of the qualifying countries, plus an onward ticket.
Does a single-entry US or UK visa qualify? The facility requires a multiple-entry visa. A single-entry visa does not qualify.
What happens if I overstay? Overstaying can result in fines or legal trouble. Always stay within the 30-day limit.
Is this a permanent policy? It was announced in August 2026; immigration rules can change, so reconfirm before every trip.
Can I travel onward to Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan? Each country has its own visa rules — check them separately before planning a multi-country trip.
Do I need travel insurance? It is not always mandatory, but it is strongly recommended.
A note from Sunlight Holidays
Uzbekistan is an excellent new option for Indian travellers — Silk Road cities, rich history and now easier entry for eligible passport holders. We help you check your eligibility, prepare your documents and plan your itinerary. For visa and travel cases, our policy is Payment After Reach — you pay our service fee only after you reach your destination. The final entry decision always rests with the immigration authorities.