Uzbekistan and Iran discuss introduction of visa-free regime: strengthening tourism and economic ties

Uzbekistan and Iran are holding talks on the possible introduction of a visa-free regime for citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The issue is considered in the context of boosting bilateral cooperation and expanding tourist and business contacts. Representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan and the Embassy of Iran confirmed that discussions are at an advanced stage and a decision can be made in the foreseeable future.

Starting in 2023, Uzbek citizens will be able to visit Iran without a visa for short-term trips of up to 10 days. This innovation has contributed to the growth of tourist traffic: the demand for air travel on the route Tashkent-Tehran has increased sharply, flights are stably loaded. According to the Iranian side, along with tourism, the medical sector is actively developing — Uzbek citizens are increasingly seeking specialized treatment in Iranian clinics equipped with modern equipment.

At the same time, Iranian citizens are still required to apply for an electronic visa to enter Uzbekistan. The introduction of a mutual visa-free regime is seen as the next logical step in the development of bilateral cooperation.

Charge d'affaires a. i. of the Iranian Embassy, Hussein Parvaresh, stressed the significant potential in the field of tourism and medical exchange:
"We note a high interest in Uzbekistan on the part of Iranians. If visa-free travel is introduced, it will become an additional catalyst for the growth of bilateral trips and cultural contacts."

On the Uzbek side, emphasis is placed on a broader strategy of visa facilitation. Foreign Ministry spokesman Ahror Burkhanov confirmed that Tashkent is simultaneously negotiating visa liberalization with a number of other countries. The main focus is to create favorable conditions for the movement of Uzbek citizens and expand the network of visa-free agreements on a reciprocal basis.

In 2024, Iran entered the top ten most popular medical tourism destinations for Uzbek citizens. Key factors include the availability of services, highly qualified doctors, and well-developed medical infrastructure in cities such as Tehran and Mashhad. Against the background of the already existing flow of patients and tourists, the prospect of visa-free travel for Iranians can further strengthen economic and humanitarian ties between the two countries.

Uzbekistan's foreign policy makes it a priority to expand diplomatic, trade and cultural ties with the countries of the Middle East and Asia. In this context, the agreement with Iran on visa liberalization can be a significant step in the formation of a closer regional partnership.