Indian travellers could soon have an easier route to Uzbekistan, with the two countries announcing a new 30-day visa-free regime as part of a broader tourism cooperation programme.

Uzbekistan and India have signed a Tourism Cooperation Programme for 2026–2028, aimed at increasing tourist exchanges, developing new travel routes and strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

One of the key developments announced under the programme is the planned introduction of a 30-day visa-free regime for citizens of India and Uzbekistan. The Uzbek government expects the move to encourage more travellers from both countries to visit each other’s destinations.

What will change for Indian travellers?

Once the new regime comes into effect, Indian passport holders are expected to be able to visit Uzbekistan for up to 30 days without obtaining a visa in advance.

This could make Uzbekistan a considerably more accessible destination for Indian tourists, particularly those looking for international travel options with simpler entry requirements.

Popular destinations such as Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva have already attracted growing interest among international travellers, and easier visa rules could further increase tourism from India.

A broader India–Uzbekistan tourism push

The visa-free announcement comes alongside a wider tourism cooperation plan covering the period from 2026 to 2028.

The two countries are planning greater tourism collaboration, including new joint tourist routes, cultural exchanges, film festivals and other initiatives designed to increase people-to-people travel.

Important: When does the visa-free rule start?

The 30-day visa-free regime has been announced, but travellers should wait for the implementation details and updated official entry rules before travelling on the assumption that a visa is no longer required.

The current Uzbekistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa information continues to list India under its existing visa arrangements, including an e-visa facility.

Travellers should therefore check the latest official requirements before booking their trip.

What this means for Indian travellers

The proposed visa-free access could make Uzbekistan one of the more convenient Central Asian destinations for Indian tourists.

With direct tourism cooperation between the two countries being expanded and a 30-day visa-free regime announced, Indian travellers may soon be able to explore Uzbekistan without the usual advance visa process.