No, French citizens do not need a visa for a tourist stay of up to 30 days in Uzbekistan. Beyond that period, or for any other purpose, an e-visa (from USD 20) can be obtained online through the official portal e-visa.gov.uz. Here is the complete how-to guide for 2026.
The Uzbekistan visa often feels intimidating. In reality, the process has become much simpler in recent years. Let's walk through it, with up-to-date official sources.
Do French citizens need a visa for Uzbekistan?
French citizens are exempt from visa requirements for a tourist stay of up to 30 calendar days. This rule is confirmed by France Diplomatie (page accessed in July 2026) and by the Uzbek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The exemption has been in place since late 2018 / early 2019.
In practice, with a valid French passport, you can enter simply by presenting it at the border. No visa form, no fee. The count is in calendar days: both the day of arrival and the day of departure count.
One simple point to keep in mind. This exemption applies to tourism. For any other purpose (work, study, long-term stay) or beyond 30 days, you need a visa. More on that just below.
When do you still need an e-visa?
An e-visa becomes necessary if your stay exceeds 30 days or if your purpose is not tourism. The official portal e-visa.gov.uz is the only site to use. The official fees published by the Uzbek government start at USD 20 for a single entry.
Here are the official fees announced by the Uzbek authorities:
- USD 20: single entry
- USD 35: double entry
- USD 50: multiple entries
The e-visa allows a stay of up to 30 days. A useful reminder: for a French tourist staying 30 days or less, the e-visa is not required. You have nothing to pay and nothing to apply for.
How do you apply for an e-visa?
The e-visa application is done entirely online at e-visa.gov.uz, the official government website. You fill in the form, upload a photo and a copy of your passport, then pay by card. Allow at least 3 to 4 business days before your entry into the country.
The steps in practice
- Open the official portal and start your application.
- Fill in your personal and travel details.
- Upload a passport photo and the main page of your passport.
- Pay the fee online (from USD 20).
- Receive your e-visa by email, then print it out.
Keep both a paper copy and a digital copy. Beware of third-party sites that charge extra fees. Always go through the government portal.
Which passport do you need to travel to Uzbekistan?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date, not beyond the date of entry. This is the rule stated by France Diplomatie and the embassy. So double-check the expiry date before you book.
Here is a clear example. If you return on 15 September, your passport must stay valid at least until the following 15 March. If it won't, renew it before you leave.
Do you have to register once you're there?
Yes. Registration is mandatory for any stay of more than 72 hours, with the OVIR. In a hotel, it's automatic: the establishment handles it for you. In a private rental or when staying with a host, registration goes through your host or the official platform e-mehmon. Source: France Diplomatie.
Don't skip this step. The penalties are heavy: fines, deportation at the traveller's expense, and even a ban on future stays. Always keep your registration slips, as you may be asked to show them when leaving the country.
A recent reform (a law that came into force on 12/10/2025) has digitised registration through a simple notification. The underlying requirement itself remains unchanged.
What do you need to declare at customs?
Amounts exceeding the equivalent of UZS 100,000,000 (soum) must be declared at customs, using form T-6, whatever currency you are carrying. This is spelled out by France Diplomatie. Fill in this form on arrival if it applies to you.
Keep your copy of the form until you leave. It will serve as proof that lets you take the declared currency back out.
Good to know: two bans to be aware of
- E-cigarettes have been banned since 1 April 2026. Criminal prosecution is possible.
- Drones are also banned.
Source: France Diplomatie.
How do you plan your trip to Uzbekistan?
Once the paperwork is sorted, it's time for the itinerary. Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva: the country is packed with treasures along the Silk Road. To build your route and pick the best season, check out our Uzbekistan travel guide, with itineraries, key cities and practical tips.
One last piece of advice: always check the official rules shortly before you leave. Entry requirements can change. The France Diplomatie page is the authoritative reference.
FAQ: visa and entry requirements for Uzbekistan
Do French citizens need a visa for Uzbekistan?
No, not for a tourist stay of up to 30 calendar days. This exemption is confirmed by France Diplomatie. Beyond 30 days, or for a non-tourist purpose, an e-visa is required.
How much does the Uzbekistan e-visa cost?
Official fees start at USD 20 for a single entry, USD 35 for a double entry and USD 50 for multiple entries. The application can only be made on the government portal e-visa.gov.uz.
What passport validity do you need for Uzbekistan?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date, not beyond the date of entry. Check this date before booking your trip.
Is registration really mandatory?
Yes, for any stay of more than 72 hours. In a hotel, it's automatic. In private accommodation, go through your host or the e-mehmon platform. The penalties for forgetting are heavy.
This article provides general information. Always check the latest rules on the official websites before you travel: France Diplomatie and e-visa.gov.uz.
Last updated: July 2026.
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