Uzbekistan has recently undergone a significant transformation in its visa regime, making it more accessible than ever for international travelers. The simplification of the process is a welcoming gesture that aligns with the country’s vision of becoming a major tourist destination.
Now, many nationals can enjoy the convenience of visa-free entry, reflecting Uzbekistan’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange and global connectivity.
Travelers from various nations are eligible to apply for Uzbekistan’s electronic visas, which come in single, double, or multiple entry formats, via the official e-visa portal. Upon filling out the application, an email will confirm its receipt and prompt you to proceed with the visa fee payment. The costs are set at US$20 for a single-entry visa, US$35 for a double-entry visa, and US$50 for a multiple-entry visa.
Once your e-visa for Uzbekistan is processed, you’ll be informed through an email, which includes a link to download the e-visa in PDF format. It’s essential to print this document and present it during your flight check-in, as well as upon arrival and departure from Uzbekistan. Keep a printed copy on hand during your travels within the country, as digital versions on devices like smartphones are not accepted.
Should there be an instance where your e-visa application is not approved, you will be notified via email. In such a scenario, you might consider applying for a visa through an Uzbekistani embassy or consulate as an alternative.
Check here for citizens of countries who can apply for evisa.
Visas upon arrival at Tashkent’s airport are available under certain conditions:
Remember, the visa on arrival is designed to make your entry into Uzbekistan smoother under specific circumstances, so it’s best to check if you meet the criteria before your journey.
A Letter of Invitation, often referred to as an LOI or Visa Support Letter, is an essential document for individuals applying for a visa to visit another country. This letter is typically prepared by travel agencies and must receive the endorsement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Here’s how the process works: The travel agency handling your visit will submit a visa application on your behalf to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry then thoroughly reviews the application. It’s important to note that the Ministry has the authority to reject any application without the obligation to provide a reason for the denial.
Once the application is approved, the visa support confirmation is sent via telex directly to the Embassy or Consulate of the destination country where you plan to apply for your visa. It’s crucial to understand that while the LOI is a significant part of the visa process, it does not automatically ensure that the visa will be granted by the Embassy.
For those whose nationalities are not listed under the visa-free or e-visa categories, obtaining an LOI becomes a necessary step. As part of our tour package services, we offer visa support at no additional charge. However, please be aware that you will still be responsible for the consular fees at the embassy or consulate, which vary from $40 to $200 based on your nationality and the intended length of your visit.
Consular fee – money charged by consulate or embassy to issue a visa. They vary from $40 to $200 based on your nationality and the intended length of your visit.
A group visa is a special type of visa designed for collective travel. It is granted to a collection of individuals, typically consisting of five or more people, who are traveling together to a destination for a shared objective. Whether it’s for tourism, business, or any other unified reason, a group visa simplifies the process by encompassing all members under a single application, making it an efficient choice for organized trips.
Uzbekistan’s climate offers a vibrant tapestry of weather patterns, making certain times of the year ideal for visiting. The spring months of April to June and the autumn period from September to October are particularly delightful. During spring, the desert blooms in a fleeting but stunning display of colors. Come autumn, the air is crisp, and the local markets brim with an abundance of fresh fruits, marking the harvest season.
For the adventure enthusiasts, the dry months of June and August present the perfect opportunity for hiking expeditions.
As winter wraps the country, temperatures hover between -5 to +5 degrees Celsius, with snowfall being a common sight. Despite this, sunny days outnumber the cloudy ones. It’s advisable to dress warmly with coats, hats, gloves, and sweaters.
With the arrival of spring, the days are pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from +15 to +25 degrees Celsius, and nearing +30 to +35 degrees as summer approaches. Daytime calls for casual, light attire, while evenings may require a light jacket or cardigan.
The summer heat intensifies, with mercury levels reaching +36 to +42 degrees Celsius. To stay comfortable, opt for T-shirts and shorts, and don’t forget a hat or a parasol for sun protection.
As autumn returns, it mirrors the spring with T-shirts suitable for the day and the occasional need for a light jacket in the evening. The latter part of autumn, particularly mid-October to November, ushers in cooler weather, necessitating light jackets during the day and sometimes a raincoat. The temperature gradually falls from a warm 35 degrees to a cooler 15 degrees as the season progresses.
In Uzbekistan, attire is largely a matter of personal choice, particularly in cosmopolitan areas like Tashkent and other significant cities. Here, the youth often exercise complete freedom in their fashion selections. It’s not uncommon to see young women opting for traditional Islamic attire as a personal choice rather than a societal obligation.
However, in more traditional regions, such as the Ferghana Valley, it’s wise to dress more conservatively, avoiding shorts for instance. This conservative approach is also recommended when visiting sacred sites, including mosques and mausoleums, where dressing modestly by covering shoulders and chest, and wearing a hat or headscarf, is respectful.
During the summer, adhering to these recommendations serves a dual purpose: respecting local customs and providing protection from the sun’s intense rays. Utilizing sunblock is also a smart way to safeguard your skin while enjoying the Uzbek sun.
When planning a trip to Uzbekistan, rest assured that there are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travelers entering the country. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized travel health advice. COVID-19 restrictions are also no longer valid to enter the country.
Travelers are permitted to bring personal medication into Uzbekistan, but it’s important to be aware of certain restrictions. Pain relievers, sedatives, and sleeping medications may be subject to prohibition or import limits. Medications that typically require a prescription can be brought in if you have the appropriate documentation. For over-the-counter drugs, there may be restrictions on the amount you can carry. It’s advisable to check the latest guidelines before your trip to ensure compliance with Uzbekistan’s regulations on medication importation. You can read more information on this matter here.
In Uzbekistan, the use of drones by individuals has been under strict regulation since January 2015. The import, sale, and operation of unmanned aerial vehicles are generally not allowed for private use. However, there are specific allowances for creative teams who wish to use drones to capture imagery that showcases the country’s tourism appeal. Such groups must navigate a formal application process, seeking approvals from multiple agencies including the State Tourism Committee, the Ministry of Culture, the Uzbek Film Committee, the Ministry of Defense, and the State Inspection Service for Pilot Safety. These applications must detail the drone operators and the intended flight areas. For comprehensive guidelines on the drone usage policy in Uzbekistan, it’s recommended to refer to the official regulatory framework. More information on this matter you can find here https://www.uzcaa.uz/en/drones
When traveling to Uzbekistan, individuals are allowed to carry a maximum of two bottles of alcoholic beverages each. It’s crucial to note that for travelers departing from Uzbekistan to the European Union, there are strict regulations regarding liquids in carry-on baggage. Containers holding liquids, which include alcoholic beverages, lotions, perfumes, and similar items, must not exceed 100 milliliters each. Additionally, the aggregate volume of all such containers should not surpass one liter.
Certainly! If you have particular interests or ideas for activities that our existing tours don’t encompass, we invite you to reach out with your concepts. We’re committed to crafting an experience that aligns with your vision. Your unique requests not only challenge us but often inspire new, enduring tour offerings. We look forward to collaborating with you to create your ideal journey.
Under the revised legislation, there is no longer a cap on the amount of currency you can bring into Uzbekistan; declaration at the border is not required. However, when leaving the country, you must declare if you’re carrying over 100 million sum or its equivalent, which is around 7,900 USD as of July 2024. Consequently, the majority of travelers are exempt from the previous requirement of completing customs declaration forms when entering or departing Uzbekistan.
Should any issues arise during your tour, rest assured that support is just a call or email away, any time of the day or night. Our dedicated team of travel consultants and guides is ready to assist you around the clock. Additionally, you’ll be provided with the contact details of a local liaison in your destination city, who will be readily available to offer immediate assistance should the need arise. For added peace of mind, we recommend saving these contacts in your phone and carrying a hard copy as well, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.
In Uzbekistan, self-service laundry facilities, commonly known as laundromats, are quite rare. Instead, most hotels provide laundry services for their guests, albeit at an additional cost. It’s advisable to inquire about the rates and turnaround time for these services upon check-in to plan accordingly. For a more budget-friendly option, you might also explore local dry cleaners or ask the hotel staff if there are any nearby services they recommend.
It’s generally advised against drinking tap water directly in Uzbekistan. However, boiling the tap water can make it safe for consumption. Alternatively, you have the option to purchase bottled water, which is widely available across the country. For your convenience and safety, consider carrying a reusable water bottle and filling it with bottled water or ensuring you have access to facilities to boil water, especially when traveling outside of urban areas.
Indeed, in Uzbekistan, there are no legal restrictions on the consumption, purchase, or sale of alcoholic beverages. You’ll find that restaurants, bars, and shops offer a variety of local and international drinks. However, it’s important to note that while alcohol is available, drinking in public places outside of designated areas is generally frowned upon. It’s always best to consume alcohol responsibly and be mindful of local customs and etiquette.
In the realm of Uzbek commerce, cash reigns supreme, particularly in the form of Uzbek soums. While credit cards may find their niche within the confines of Tashkent’s more luxurious establishments, their utility fades in the everyday transactions of shops, eateries, and local transport. Visa cards enjoy a modest acceptance in the upscale hotels of not only Tashkent but also Samarkand and Bukhara, whereas Mastercard holders may find their options even more limited.
The landscape of ATM availability is expanding across Uzbekistan, with machines increasingly common. In the upscale hotels of Tashkent, dedicated ATMs for Mastercard and Visa are available, dispensing US dollars, though reliability can be an issue due to frequent outages or cash shortages. This unpredictability extends to the ATMs of various banks throughout Tashkent, which also cater to Visa and Mastercard users.
Certainly, you can convert Uzbekistani so’m back to dollars before you leave the country. It’s essential to keep the document provided by the bank when you initially exchanged your dollars for so’m, as this will be required for the reverse exchange. While currency exchange services are readily available, it’s important to note that they might not always have sufficient dollars on hand. To avoid any inconvenience, it’s a good idea to plan this transaction ahead of your departure. Additionally, checking the exchange rates and service fees can help you get the best deal when converting your money back.
The railway network connects several key destinations in Uzbekistan, offering a scenic and comfortable journey across the country.
Tashkent to Samarkand: A popular route with frequent services, allowing you to witness the changing landscapes.
Samarkand to Bukhara: Continue your rail adventure to Bukhara, another city steeped in history and culture.
Bukhara to Khiva: In 2019, Uzbekistan made it easier for travelers to reach the enchanting city of Khiva by launching a direct train from Bukhara. The 8-hour journey brings you closer to the well-preserved marvels of this ancient city.
For the most up-to-date information on train schedules and connections, it’s best to consult the official railway website or visit a local train station upon arrival. This way, you can plan your travel efficiently and ensure a smooth experience as you traverse the historic lands of Uzbekistan.
The train journey from Tashkent to Khiva is quite an adventure. You would typically travel from Tashkent to Urgench, the nearest railway station to Khiva, and then take a short taxi ride to Khiva itself. The train ride can take around 16 to 20 hours, depending on the service and route taken.
Flying could be a more convenient option if you’re looking to save time. There are flights from Tashkent to Urgench, which take about 1.5 hours. From Urgench airport, it’s a 30-minute drive to Khiva. Considering the time spent at the airport before and after the flight, flying could still be significantly faster than the train.
When traveling overnight by train in Uzbekistan, you have the option to choose from different classes of comfort, each offering a distinct experience:
Lux Class Coupe: This is the most exclusive option, accommodating just two passengers. It’s perfect for those seeking privacy and a higher level of comfort. The Lux Class provides additional amenities to make your journey as comfortable as possible.
First Class Coupe: A great choice for small groups or families, the First Class Coupe houses four passengers. It strikes a balance between comfort and affordability, offering a pleasant travel experience without the higher price tag of the Lux Class.
Platscart Class: While this class is the most economical, it’s less private and offers basic facilities. It’s a communal sleeping area with open bunks, suitable for the budget-conscious traveler who doesn’t mind a lack of privacy.
For a restful journey, the coupe classes are generally recommended as they provide a more secluded and serene environment, along with better service levels. It’s always a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability in your preferred class.
In Uzbekistan, the convenience of modern technology allows you to easily purchase train tickets online. You’ll receive a ticket with a QR code that you can present on your smartphone or tablet at the train station on the day of your journey. It’s a seamless process that saves you time.
As for booking in advance, you can secure your train tickets typically from 30 to 45 days before your travel date. The availability window may vary depending on your destination, so it’s wise to check early, especially if you’re traveling during popular times or to a well-visited location. This way, you can ensure that you get a seat on the train of your choice and avoid any last-minute inconveniences. Remember to keep an eye on the booking opening dates to plan your trip smoothly.