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| Starting June 1, 2025, Uzbekistan and China launch 30-day visa-free travel to boost tourism and strengthen ties. |
Exciting developments await travelers between Uzbekistan and China. Beginning June 1, 2025, nationals of both countries will be able to travel visa-free for up to 30 days per visit under a new intergovernmental agreement. This breakthrough will simplify travel and boost tourism and cultural exchange between these two dynamic nations.
Understanding the Uzbekistan and China 30-Day Visa-Free Travel Agreement
The new 30-day visa-free travel policy permits citizens of Uzbekistan and China to enter, transit, and exit each other’s countries without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Visitors must ensure that their total stay within any 180-day period does not exceed 90 days. The visa exemption does not apply to employment, study, media activities, or similar cases that require prior approval from relevant authorities.
Important Details of the Agreement
- The agreement was signed on December 1, 2024, after fulfilling all legal and diplomatic requirements.
- The visa-free policy excludes China’s Special Administrative Regions: Hong Kong and Macau.
- Effective date for the visa-free travel: June 1, 2025.
Benefits for Travelers and Tourism
This visa waiver is expected to significantly ease travel procedures, boosting tourism and business interactions. Uzbekistan is actively promoting tourism cooperation with China, exemplified by the "Friendly China" initiative to integrate Chinese language services in airports, hotels, and restaurants.
Expanded Flight Connectivity
Currently, there are 58 direct flights connecting Uzbek cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Fergana with Chinese cities including Beijing, Xi’an, Urumqi, Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Guangzhou. Uzbekistan plans to increase weekly flights to 100, anticipating over one million Chinese tourists soon.
Statements from Officials
Foreign Ministers Bakhtiyor Saidov of Uzbekistan and Wang Yi of China jointly announced this agreement. Bobirjon Yakhyaev, Counsellor and Consul General of the Uzbek Embassy in China, emphasized the visa waiver’s role in strengthening bilateral tourism and cooperation.
FAQs About Uzbekistan and China 30-Day Visa-Free Travel
1. When does the visa-free travel start?
The visa exemption begins on June 1, 2025.
2. How long can travelers stay visa-free?
Up to 30 days per visit, with a cumulative maximum of 90 days within 180 days.
3. Can visitors work or study during the visa-free period?
No, the visa-free travel is for tourism, business visits, and short stays only; employment and study require visas.
4. Does the visa waiver cover Hong Kong and Macau?
No, these regions are excluded from the agreement.
5. How will flights between Uzbekistan and China be affected?
Uzbekistan plans to increase direct flights from 58 to 100 weekly, enhancing connectivity.
Conclusion
The Uzbekistan and China 30-day visa-free travel agreement, effective June 1, 2025, is set to transform travel and tourism between the two countries. This visa waiver will facilitate smoother visits, promote tourism growth, and foster closer cultural and economic ties. Travelers should note the restrictions for employment and study, as well as the exclusion of Hong Kong and Macau.
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