How Albanian Citizens Can Apply for the Uzbekistan eVisa

Uzbekistan is rapidly becoming a top bucket-list destination for Albanian travelers. With its shared history of Ottoman influence, stunning Islamic architecture, and warm hospitality, cities like Samarkand and Bukhara feel both exotic and strangely familiar.

However, navigating Central Asian visa bureaucracy can sometimes feel daunting. If you are holding an Albanian passport, you likely have questions: Is Uzbekistan visa-free for me? Can I apply online? What if I am just transiting?

This comprehensive guide answers every question you have about the Uzbekistan eVisa for Albanian citizens, breaking down the costs, processing times, and special transit rules you need to know in 2025.

Do Albanian Citizens Need a Visa for Uzbekistan?

The short answer is Yes, for most trips you do need a visa.

While Uzbekistan has opened its doors to many European nations for visa-free travel, Albania is currently on the list of countries that require an Electronic Visa (eVisa) for tourism stays of up to 30 days.

Important Exception: There is a specific "Visa-Free Transit" rule for Albanians (see section 3), but if your goal is a proper holiday to explore the Silk Road, you must apply for the eVisa before you travel.

Is There a Visa-Free Transit Option for Albanians?

Yes! This is a special rule that benefits Albanian passport holders.

If you are flying through Uzbekistan to a third country (e.g., Tirana -> Istanbul -> Tashkent -> Bangkok), you can enter Uzbekistan Visa-Free for up to 5 days (120 hours).

The Catch:

• You must have a confirmed flight ticket to a third country (you cannot return to the country you came from).
• The airline must legally be informed of your transit status.
• If you plan to stay longer than 5 days, or if you are entering via a land border with no onward flight, you must get the eVisa.

What Documents Are Required for the Application?

The Uzbekistan Visa Requirements for Albanians are straightforward. You do not need bank statements, flight tickets, or hotel bookings to apply (though it's good to have them for arrival).

You will need digital scans of:

• Valid Passport: Your Albanian biometric passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the date your visa expires.
• Digital Photo: A passport-style photo taken against a white background.
• Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
• File Size: Under 1MB (ideally around 300KB).
• Resolution: 300 dpi.
• Email Address: To receive your verification code and the final visa.
• Payment Card: A VISA card is highly recommended (Mastercards frequently fail on the Uzbek).

How Long is the Processing Time?

The official processing time is 2 to 3 business days.

However, we strongly advise Albanian travelers to apply at least 10 days in advance. The online system is known for occasional maintenance downtimes, and banking holidays in Uzbekistan can delay approvals.

What Are the Most Common Mistakes to Avoid?

• Bad Photo Background: Using a light grey or blue background instead of pure white will cause an automatic rejection.
• Wrong Entry Type: Applying for a Single Entry visa when you plan to take a side trip to Samarkand-Bukhara-Khiva and then cross into Tajikistan.
• Waiting Until Friday: The visa office does not process applications on weekends. If you apply on Friday afternoon, the earliest you will hear back is Tuesday or Wednesday.

What If My eVisa Application is Rejected?

Rejections are rare for Albanians but can happen due to technical errors. If rejected:

• Check the Reason: The email usually states if it was a photo issue or data mismatch.
• Re-apply: You cannot "appeal" an eVisa. You must start a new application and pay the fee again.
• Contact Embassy: If rejected twice, you may need to apply for a sticker visa via the nearest Uzbek Embassy (usually in Istanbul or Rome for Albanian residents).

Can I Get a Visa on Arrival in Tashkent?

No.

Unless you have the specific "Visa Confirmation Stamp" pre-arranged by a local travel agency (which is expensive and complex), you cannot just show up and buy a visa. Airlines in Tirana or Istanbul will deny you boarding if you do not have your printed eVisa or proof of visa-free transit eligibility.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

While it is not strictly checked at the eVisa application stage, travel insurance is mandatory for entry. Immigration officers at Tashkent International Airport occasionally ask for proof of insurance.

Ensure your policy covers:

• Medical evacuation.
• Repatriation.
• COVID-19 treatment (though restrictions have lifted, coverage is still recommended).

What is the "Registration" Rule Everyone Talks About?

This is critical for Albanian tourists. In Uzbekistan, every foreigner must be "registered" with the government for every night of their stay.

• Hotels: They handle this for you. When you check out, the receptionist will give you a small paper slip with a stamp. Do not throw these away.
• Border Control: When you leave Uzbekistan, the border guard may ask to see your collection of slips to prove you didn't sleep outside or in unauthorized places. Missing slips can lead to fines.

Is Uzbekistan Safe for Albanian Tourists?

Uzbekistan is widely considered very safe. The crime rate is low, and the "Tourist Police" (distinguishable by their dark uniforms) are present in all major cities to help foreigners.

• Scams: Be wary of unofficial taxi drivers at airports; always use an app or official stand.
• Solo Travel: It is very safe for solo female travelers, though modest dress is recommended in religious sites.

What Currency Should I Bring?

The currency is the Uzbek Som (UZS).

• Cash is King: Albanians should bring USD or Euros. USD is slightly easier to exchange than Euros, but both are accepted at banks.
• Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted in high-end hotels and restaurants in Tashkent, but cash is essential for bazaars, taxis, and smaller cities.
• ATMs: ATMs are common in cities, but they often run out of cash. Always have a backup stash of Euros/Dollars.

How Do I Travel Between Cities?

Uzbekistan has excellent infrastructure for tourists.

• High-Speed Train (Afrosiyob): The best way to travel between Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. It is fast, clean, and cheap. Book tickets weeks in advance as they sell out.
• Shared Taxis: For routes without trains (like Khiva to Bukhara), shared taxis are the standard. You pay for a seat in a sedan car.
• Yandex Go: This app works like Uber and is available in major cities. It is extremely cheap and safe.

Do I Need to Speak Russian or Uzbek?

• English: Spoken by hotel staff and younger people in tourist hubs, but not widely understood by taxi drivers or bazaar sellers.
• Russian: Widely spoken as a second language. If you know any Russian, it will be very helpful.
• Uzbek: The official language. Learning a simple "Assalomu Alaykum" (Hello) and "Rahmat" (Thank you) goes a long way with the locals!

When is the Best Time for Albanians to Visit?

Uzbekistan's climate is much more extreme than Albania's Mediterranean weather.

• Best Time: April-May and September-October. The weather is delightful (20-25°C), similar to an Albanian spring.
• Summer Warning: Avoid July. Temperatures in Khiva and Bukhara often exceed 40°C, making sightseeing unbearable.
• Winter: Winters are harsh, but if you enjoy snow and zero crowds, seeing the Registan covered in white is magical.

Conclusion

For Albanian citizens, visiting Uzbekistan has never been easier. Whether you choose the 5-day visa-free transit for a quick stopover or the full 30-day eVisa for a deep dive into history, the process is efficient and user-friendly.