U.S. Embassy Tashkent

3 Moyqorghon Street, 5th block
Yunusobod District, 100093
Tashkent
Uzbekistan
Telephone: +(998) (78) 120-5450
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(998) (78) 120-5450
Fax: +(998) (71) 120-5448
Email: ACSTashkent@state.gov

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Uzbekistan  for information on U.S.-Uzbekistan relations

Visit the Embassy of Uzbekistan website for the most current visa information.

There are two types of visas that are available for Uzbekistan for U.S. citizens, "physical” and “e-visa.” For both types of visas:

• Visitors may not enter Uzbekistan with a valid Uzbek visa in a canceled or expired U.S. passport, even if they present another valid U.S. passport at the port of entry.
• If a traveler has a single-entry visa, they cannot re-enter Uzbekistan using the same visa.

Physical Visas: Some categories of travelers such as students, investors, and businesspersons require a physical visa. U.S. citizens should apply for physical visas well in advance of their travel and should apply through Uzbekistan’s consular missions abroad, including the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Washington, D.C. A list of Uzbekistan’s consular missions abroad is available on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

E-Visas: Travelers wishing to enter for Uzbekistan for tourism for 30 days or less may apply for an e-visa. E-visa application processing, including fees and visa validity, can be found by visiting the Embassy of Uzbekistan website. The e-visa application is submitted through the government of Uzbekistan’s e-visa portal.

Tips for entering Uzbekistan on an E-Visa: 

• Travelers must ensure they receive email confirmation that their e-visa is approved. Confirmation of payment is not confirmation of visa approval.
• Travelers should print and carry the e-visa approval with them to Uzbekistan.
• E-visas cannot be extended in Uzbekistan. Travelers seeking a longer period of stay may apply for a regular, physical tourist visa through Uzbekistan’s consular missions abroad.
• If a traveler believes they have a valid and approved e-visa, but Uzbekistan immigration authorities are unable to verify it, the traveler may contact the following public phone numbers within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Hotline: +998 71-200-00-88; Visa Issues: +998 71-236-27-07. The U.S. Embassy in Tashkent cannot assist U.S. citizens in obtaining Uzbekistani visas.  

Visa-free Entry for U.S. Citizens under 16: U.S. citizens who are under 16 and traveling for tourism do not require a visa. They should present a valid U.S. passport at the point of entry and must be accompanied by their legal guardians. The period of stay generally will correspond with the duration of the visa of the accompanying guardian and will not exceed 90 days. More information is available at the Embassy of Uzbekistan website.

Visa-free Entry for Foreign Citizens over 55: U.S. citizens who are older than 55 and traveling for tourism do not require a visa if they have a valid passport. The period of stay cannot exceed 30 days. More information is available at the Embassy of Uzbekistan website.

Registration: The government of Uzbekistan requires all foreign nationals to register with the local authorities within three days of arrival in Uzbekistan. From the date of the initial registration, travelers are responsible for maintaining uninterrupted registration. Visit our Registration in Uzbekistan website for more information.

Border Crossings: Travel within Uzbekistan by rail or land sometimes requires brief entries into neighboring countries. Travelers should obtain a multiple-entry Uzbek visa as well as proper visas for the relevant neighboring countries, if needed.

Airport Screening Procedures: All travelers should anticipate strict airport security screening procedures. Travelers wishing to be screened privately should note secondary screening procedures are more thorough than those conducted at the primary security checkpoint.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: Uzbekistan has imposed HIV/AIDS travel restrictions on visitors and foreign residents. Long-term visitors may be required to submit HIV test results along with their visa application. Please verify this information with the Embassy of Uzbekistan before you travel.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists.
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Violent crime against foreign nationals is rare, but can occur, especially in larger cities and primarily during late night hours. In urban areas, travelers are urged to take the same precautions they would take in any large U.S. city. If traveling at night, stay in well-lit areas, travel in groups, maintain a low profile, and do not display large amounts of cash. Beware of pickpockets in public places, such as tourist destinations, train stations, and local markets. Although using private cars as taxis is common in Uzbekistan, U.S. citizens, especially women, should not consider this a safe practice. U.S. citizens are encouraged to use clearly marked taxis, such as those at hotels, and should avoid riding in unmarked taxis.

Demonstrations are rare and unlikely to occur, particularly inside Tashkent. However, clashes between police and protesters have resulted in deaths in the past.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.
• Past demonstrations have ended in mass arrests.
• Check local and/or social media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Violent demonstrations may be more likely outside the capital city.

Scams: Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.[CK1]

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 102 (Tashkent) or 02 (most of Uzbekistan) and to the U.S. Embassy at + (998) (78) 120-5450. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during and after the local investigation.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is not well regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.

See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be expelled, arrested, or put in prison. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe. Expect long jail sentences and heavy fines if you are convicted. 
• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings. Ask before taking photographs of anything of possible military or security interest. 
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport, visa, and visa registration, since local police may conduct document inspections. Check your visa and registration validity dates regularly, and renew them before they expire.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries and they may be illegal according to the local laws. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up the counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports

International Volunteers

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGB Travelers: Sexual relations between men are against the law and punishable by up to three years’ imprisonment. The law does not specifically address same-sex sexual activity between women. Same-sex sexual activity is a taboo subject in Uzbekistani society, and there are no registered LGB organizations.

See our LGB Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Uzbekistan prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Buildings, public transportation, and social infrastructure facilities, such as clinics and schools, are rarely adapted for use by persons with disabilities. 

See our Traveling with Disabilities page.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips for U.S. Students.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Health Facilities in General: Medical care in Uzbekistan is below U.S. standards with shortages of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics. Some medication sold in local pharmacies is known to be counterfeit. Elderly travelers and those with pre-existing health problems may be at particular risk due to inadequate medical facilities. Most U.S. citizens residing in Uzbekistan travel to North America or Europe for their medical needs.

Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight, and medical staff may speak little or no English. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based psychological and psychiatric care only available through government institutions.

U.S. Embassy Tashkent’s Consular Section maintains a list of medical contacts.

For emergency services in Uzbekistan, dial 103 (Tashkent) or 03 (most of Uzbekistan).

 Other provider numbers are:

• Fire: 101 (Tashkent), 01 (most of Uzbekistan)
• Police: 102 (Tashkent), 02 (most of Uzbekistan)
• Ministry of Emergency Situations: 1050 (Tashkent), 050 (most of Uzbekistan)

Ambulance services are:

• Widely available but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• Not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• Staffed with trained physicians and paramedics but have limited medical equipment.
• Very few English-speaking providers are available; most will not speak English.
• Private ambulance services may have quicker response times and are available in some major cities.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

See our Health Abroad page for more information.

• Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Traveler Advice for Uzbekistan.
  • Review all sub-sections. These include Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
•  We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health page. CDC Traveler Advice provides advice on medical considerations including:
  • Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
  • Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
  • General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Uzbekistan’s laws and legislation to ensure the medication is legal in Uzbekistan.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization Travel advice page
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy: Surrogacy is illegal for foreign nationals in Uzbekistan.

Water Quality & Food Safety: In many areas of Uzbekistan, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Air Quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in major cities in Uzbekistan. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses AI, historical data, and global pollution models to create a 3-day air quality forecast for [destination]. to create a 3-day air quality forecast for [destination].
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

Road Conditions and Safety: Uzbekistan has a developed but inconsistently maintained traffic infrastructure. Although main roads in central Tashkent are relatively well maintained, many secondary roads inside and outside Tashkent are in poor condition. Exercise caution on rural or mountainous roads.

Driving at night can be dangerous. Rural roads and highways are generally not lit, and only major cities have streetlights. The fuel supply can be sporadic, and travelers may encounter occasional difficulty finding gasoline outside Tashkent.

Livestock, as well as farm equipment and animal-drawn carts that lack lights or reflectors, are found on both urban and rural roads at any hour. Local drivers are unfamiliar with safe driving techniques. Drivers often disregard traffic signals, ignore lane markings, and move erratically and at high speeds. Pedestrians cross streets unexpectedly and often without looking for oncoming traffic.

Passersby and drivers generally respond quickly to automobile accidents and notify relevant authorities; however, police may not arrive at the scene right away. There are private roadside assistance services available in Uzbekistan that can assist with towing, fuel refill, tire replacement, etc.

Traffic Laws: Uzbekistan has a large traffic police force, which frequently stops drivers for minor infractions or simple document checks. There have been reports of traffic police harassing foreign national drivers and asking them for bribes.

Public Transportation: Public transportation in the city is often overcrowded and not always safe. Avoid using unmarked taxis or entering a cab that already has passengers. Most taxis lack working seatbelts in the back seat. Buses and shuttle buses (marshrutkas), especially in residential areas, lack necessary route maps and information, and driver schedules may be unpredictable.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Uzbekistan’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.