“No talks on easing visa rules yet” – U.S. Embassy in Tashkent

A representative of the U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan told Kun.uz that there have been no notable changes in the policy of issuing visas to Uzbek citizens, nor have discussions been held on easing the process. However, the Embassy says it is eagerly awaiting Uzbekistan’s proposals.

Last week, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs was instructed to begin negotiations with the United States on two key points: the introduction of a 30-day visa-free regime for U.S. citizens and the simplification of visa procedures for Uzbek nationals. The MFA is expected to submit its final proposals on this matter within three months.

Kun.uz reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent to inquire about any developments. According to the Embassy's Public Affairs Department, there are currently no updates regarding the issuance of U.S. visas to Uzbek citizens.

“We are aware that President Mirziyoyev has recently instructed the government to work on simplifying the U.S. visa process. However, there are no developments worth announcing in our visa policy at this time. The rules and procedures remain unchanged. Discussions have not yet begun, and we look forward to receiving proposals from Uzbekistan,” the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent stated.

The Embassy added that Uzbekistan’s efforts to establish a 30-day visa-free regime for American citizens would likely increase visits by U.S. businesspeople.

“For many years, the United States has been engaged in discussions on strengthening economic ties with Uzbekistan. The changes Uzbekistan is introducing to its visa regime have been an important step, as a visa-free regime would significantly ease the ability of U.S. company representatives to conduct business here,” the statement said.

As a reminder, U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan Jonathan Henick recently stated in a media briefing that the consulate is currently receiving and approving the highest-ever number of visa applications from Uzbek citizens. The ambassador noted that as Uzbekistan continues to grow economically and becomes a wealthier country, obtaining a U.S. visa will gradually become easier.