Uzbekistan is a beautiful country located in Central Asia, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It features many ancient cities that were key points on the Silk Road, blending traditional markets with modern urban life.
CapitalTashkent
Population34,100,000
Official language(s)Uzbek
CurrencyUzbek Som
Time zoneUTC+5
Be sure to try the local traditional dishes during your visit.
Uzbekistan allows visa-free entry for tourists of many nationalities, but the permitted stay can vary by passport, so check before you travel. Electronic travel authorizations such as ESTA, K-ETA, UK ETA, or eTA are different from systems that pre-submit immigration or customs information online; for Uzbekistan, a separate pre-arrival online registration scheme for ordinary tourists is not commonly required. Paper arrival cards are generally not needed, but customs declaration may be required for reportable items such as large amounts of cash, so review what you are carrying in advance.
Join the immigration queue
Have your passport and visa, or proof of visa-free eligibility, ready before approaching immigration. The allowed stay and screening requirements can differ by nationality, so it helps to have your onward ticket and accommodation details available.
Provide biometrics if requested
You may be asked for fingerprints or a facial photo at immigration, so follow the officer’s instructions. Automated gates, when available, depend on the airport and on whether your passport and travel conditions are eligible.
Check items that may need declaration
Items that may be restricted or declared, such as meat, fresh fruit and plants, medicines, expensive electronics, or large amounts of cash, may be checked separately. Customs may inspect baggage or ask for a declaration if you are carrying reportable goods.
Check the entry stamp or stay record
After clearance, make sure your passport has the correct entry stamp or stay record. Your permitted stay may be tracked against your passport record, so keep it safe until departure.
Organize baggage and duty-free items before departure
Recheck any cash or items that may need customs declaration before you leave. Meat and plant-based products may be restricted for export or import, so it is wise to review souvenirs you bought.
Pass through departure control
Present your passport and boarding documents for exit control. A separate departure tax is not generally a prominent feature, but airport procedures and ticket conditions can vary by airline and route.
Check VAT refund procedures at the airport
If you bought goods eligible for VAT refund in Uzbekistan, you may need to present receipts and the items at the airport. Eligibility and procedure depend on the retailer and whether the refund desk is operating, so confirm the instructions at purchase.