Uzbekistan urges 10-year U.S. visas as Americans go visa‑free in 2026

November 10, 2025|Joshua

Uzbekistan will allow U.S. citizens visa-free entry for up to 30 days starting January 1, 2026, while urging the U.S. government to grant Uzbek nationals 10-year B1/B2 visas to facilitate travel and strengthen bilateral ties.

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Uzbekistan will allow U.S. citizens to enter visa‑free for up to 30 days starting January 1, 2026, under a presidential decree dated November 3, 2025. Following this move, senior Uzbek official Komil Allamjonov publicly urged Washington to issue 10‑year B1/B2 visas to citizens of Uzbekistan. The visa‑free step is confirmed by government‑linked and reputable regional outlets, and Uzbekistan’s embassies are already referencing the 2026 change. The 10‑year visa for Uzbeks is a policy request at this stage and would require U.S. government action to take effect.

Background

Uzbekistan has steadily liberalized entry rules to attract tourism and investment, expanding visa‑free access and streamlining e‑Visa procedures. Before the latest decision, limited visa‑free entry already applied to U.S. nationals aged 55 and above for up to 30 days for tourism. In May 2025, the President instructed the Foreign Ministry to pursue two tracks: prepare visa‑free entry for U.S. citizens and open talks with the United States to ease visa rules for Uzbek travelers.

Current situation

Visa‑free entry for U.S. citizens

Effective date: January 1, 2026
Scope: Visa‑free stays up to 30 days per entry for holders of U.S. passports
Basis: Presidential decree signed November 3, 2025
Purpose: Facilitate tourism and deepen trade, cultural, and humanitarian ties

Multiple reports cite the decree and specify the 30‑day allowance for U.S. citizens. An official Uzbekistan embassy site has also published an overview article referencing the impending visa‑free regime from January 1, 2026.

Proposal for 10‑year U.S. visas for Uzbek citizens

Proponent: Komil Allamjonov, advisor to the head of the Presidential Administration of Uzbekistan
Request: Extend U.S. B1/B2 visitor visa validity issued to Uzbek nationals from the current short‑term validity to 10 years
Status: Public proposal. No U.S. policy change has been announced as of November 10, 2025

Allamjonov’s appeal followed public acknowledgement by U.S. officials of Uzbekistan’s visa‑free step for Americans. Any change to U.S. visa validity for Uzbek citizens would depend on U.S. reciprocity decisions and formal State Department updates.

Key facts for travelers

Affected passports: U.S. citizens become visa‑exempt for stays up to 30 days starting January 1, 2026
Until December 31, 2025: Most U.S. travelers still need a visa or e‑Visa to enter Uzbekistan
e‑Visa basics for eligible nationalities (including U.S. citizens traveling before 2026):
Fee typically 20 USD for single entry
Issued for a single 30‑day stay and valid to use within 90 days from issuance
Apply at least 3 working days before travel
Under‑16 travelers: Foreign citizens under 16 may enter visa‑free when accompanied by a legal guardian, subject to stay limits
Passport validity: Your passport should be valid at least 3 months beyond your allowed period of stay in Uzbekistan, and have at least one blank page for entry stamps
U.S. visa policy for Uzbek nationals: The 10‑year B1/B2 visa is a request at this time. Applicants should continue to follow current U.S. consular rules and reciprocity schedules until any official change is announced

Traveler insights and practical notes

Purpose of travel: The 30‑day visa‑free entry for U.S. citizens covers tourism and typical short business visits. Longer stays or other purposes may require appropriate visas
Overstay risks: Exceeding 30 days can result in fines or removal. Plan exit or extensions carefully
Registration and accommodation: Hotels generally complete guest registration automatically. Independent travelers should check local rules in advance of arrival
Timing: If your trip is scheduled for January 1, 2026 or later, U.S. citizens can plan for visa‑free entry. For earlier trips, use the e‑Visa or applicable visa channel

Apply now

If traveling before January 1, 2026, or if you are a non‑U.S. citizen who still requires a visa, use Uzbekistan’s official e‑Visa portal. See the link in Sources below