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Planning a Central Asian holiday just became easier for Indian travellers. Uzbekistan has announced a 30-day visa-free regime for Indian citizens, potentially making its historic Silk Road cities, colourful bazaars and striking Islamic architecture more accessible to Indian tourists.
Uzbekistan Announces 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Indians
Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced the new visa-free regime on August 30, 2026, during delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Tashkent. PM Modi was in Uzbekistan for a two-day State visit.
Under the newly announced arrangement, Indian passport holders will be able to visit Uzbekistan without obtaining a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Until now, Indian travellers generally needed an e-visa before travelling to the country.
The move is also aimed at strengthening tourism, business exchanges and people-to-people ties between India and Uzbekistan. The Uzbek President noted that bilateral trade between the two countries exceeded USD 1 billion last year and that there are currently 14 direct flights between the countries every week.
>> Read More: Uzbekistan Visa For Indians
What Does the Visa-Free Rule Mean for Indians?
The biggest advantage for Indian travellers is simpler entry. Once the new regime is operational under the applicable entry rules, eligible Indian citizens travelling for up to 30 days will not need to obtain a regular visa beforehand.
However, visa-free entry does not mean travelling without documentation. Travellers should carry a valid passport and comply with applicable immigration, stay and entry requirements.
When Will Visa-Free Travel to Uzbekistan Begin?
While the visa-free regime has been announced, the formal implementation order and effective date had not yet been issued by Uzbek authorities as of August 31, 2026.
Indian travellers should therefore check the latest official entry requirements and effective date before booking flights or accommodation.
What Should Indian Travellers Know Before Booking?
The visa-free announcement could make Uzbekistan a more convenient destination for Indian tourists, particularly those looking beyond conventional international holiday spots. However, before making reservations, travellers should confirm the effective date of the visa-free policy, passport validity requirements, permitted purpose of travel and other applicable entry conditions through official sources.
With easier entry on the horizon and centuries-old Silk Road cities waiting to be explored, Uzbekistan could soon find a stronger place on Indian travellers' international holiday lists.
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