Uzbekistan and US Discussing Visa-Free Regime

Tashkent and Washington are discussing ways to significantly simplify travel procedures for citizens and representatives of the business community. A major agreement to purchase U.S. aircraft is serving as a catalyst for this process.

This agreement is opening new opportunities in direct flights and the tourism sector. Uzbekistan and the U.S. are planning to discuss simplifying visa-free travel arrangements.

This was announced by Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Transport, Jasurbek Choriev, in an interview with Uzbekistan 24 TV channel. According to him, the negotiations to ease travel between the two nations for citizens and business representatives are a logical continuation of strategic agreements in the aviation sector.

The foundation for this expanded partnership is the contract between Uzbekistan Airways, the national airline, and Boeing Corporation for the delivery of 22 modern 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. According to the Ministry of Transport representative, this acquisition is a key element of the strategy to expand geographical routes for long-haul flights.

Specifically, there is a focus on U.S. cities, which will not only strengthen business relations but also provide a significant boost to inbound tourism. “Tourism will also benefit here – considering the recent decision to abolish visa requirements for U.S. citizens.

Now, the issue of simplifying visa procedures for our citizens and business representatives will be considered,” Jasurbek Choriev stated, referring to a presidential decree.

According to the decree, starting from January 1, 2026, U.S. citizens will be able to enter Uzbekistan and stay for up to 30 days without a visa. This decision has been adopted as part of policies aimed at enhancing the country's tourism appeal.

In May of this year, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev approved a set of measures to increase tourism flow and instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to develop a visa-free regime for U.S. citizens. Tashkent awaits reciprocal steps from the U.S. to ease visa procedures for Uzbek citizens.

The issue of liberalizing the visa regime has also been actively discussed at the diplomatic level. According to Komil Allamjonov, advisor to the head of Uzbekistan’s Presidential Administration, during an October meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and U.S. Special Representative for South and Central Asia Sergio Gor, the topic of a visa-free regime for U.S. citizens was raised.

Allamjonov assured U.S. partners of Uzbekistan’s full openness to tourists from the United States. He also expressed hope for a constructive approach from the U.S. in easing visa requirements for Uzbek citizens.

In particular, it was highlighted that extending the validity of multiple-entry B1/B2 (personal and business travel) visas from one year to ten years would represent a significant step towards strengthening ties between Uzbekistan and the United States. Read “Zamin” on Telegram!