Uzbekistan is a popular destination for both tourism and business. Visiting this country, rich in history, culture and breathtaking scenery, requires careful preparation before your trip, especially when it comes to electronic visas.
The different types of electronic visas for Uzbekistan
Depending on the reason for your visit to Uzbekistan, there are several types of single-entry electronic visas:
- Electronic tourist visa (e-Visa Tourism): This type of visa is intended for people wishing to discover Uzbekistan for tourism purposes. The maximum validity is 90 days from the date of issue, with a maximum stay of 30 days.
- The electronic business visa (e-Visa Affaires): This visa is for people traveling for business or professional purposes. It is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, for a stay not exceeding 30 days.
Which nationalities are eligible or exempt from visa requirements?
Uzbekistan has introduced a simplified system for issuing electronic visas to nationals of many countries. The list of eligible nationalities can be consulted on the official Uzbek government website.
In addition, certain nationalities are exempt from visa requirements for short stays in Uzbekistan. Holders of diplomatic passports or United Nations laissez-passer, for example, are exempt from visa requirements regardless of their country of origin. Similarly, nationals of member countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) are generally authorized to stay in Uzbekistan without a visa for between 30 and 90 days.
What documents do I need to obtain an e-visa?
To apply for an electronic visa for Uzbekistan, you must provide the following documents:
- A valid passport: As a general rule, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date you plan to enter Uzbekistan.
- A recent passport photo: The photo must be in digital format, of suitable size and with a neutral background. It must show your face clearly and without head covering.
Applying for an electronic visa for Uzbekistan: steps and deadlines
To obtain an electronic visa for Uzbekistan, follow these steps:
- Apply online: Fill in the online form on the official Uzbek government website and provide the required documents (passport, photo, etc.). Be sure to check the accuracy of the information you provide.
- Pay the fees: Pay the visa processing fees in accordance with the payment terms indicated on the website. Be sure to keep proof of payment.
- Waiting for a reply: Once you've submitted your visa application, you'll usually receive a reply within 2 to 3 working days. However, it is advisable to allow extra time for unforeseen circumstances.
- Print visa: If your application is successful, you will receive a link to download and print your electronic visa. It is essential to keep this document with you throughout your stay in Uzbekistan.
Special features of electronic visas for Uzbekistan
Entry and exit with a single-entry visa
As electronic visas for Uzbekistan are generally issued on a single-entry basis, you can only use your visa for one entry into the country. If you leave Uzbekistan before the end of your authorized stay, you will need to obtain a new visa to re-enter the country.
Visiting other neighbouring countries with an Uzbek visa
If you plan to visit other neighbouring countries during your stay in Uzbekistan, it is essential to check the specific entry and exit requirements for each country concerned. Visa regulations may vary considerably from one country to another, and are subject to change without notice.
Length of stay and validity of electronic visa
For electronic tourist and business visas, the maximum stay in Uzbekistan is 30 days. The maximum validity of the visa is 90 days from the date of issue. Note, however, that this does not mean you can plan a 90-day stay: if you enter Uzbekistan on the last day of your visa's validity, you will only be allowed to stay for a further 29 days. It is therefore essential to plan your trip carefully, taking these durations into account.