Uzbekistan eVisa Application Guide for Egyptian Passport Holders

The ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva have long captured the imagination of travelers. For Egyptians looking to explore the heart of the Silk Road, the process has become significantly easier in recent years thanks to the electronic visa (eVisa) system.

Gone are the days of standing in long queues at the embassy for a simple tourist visit. If you hold an Egyptian passport, you can now secure your entry permit from the comfort of your home in Cairo or Alexandria. However, navigating government portals and understanding specific requirements can still be tricky.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Uzbekistan eVisa for Egyptian passport holders, including document requirements, costs, processing times, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Do Egyptian Citizens Need a Visa for Uzbekistan?

Yes, Egyptian citizens do need a visa to enter Uzbekistan. Egypt is not currently on the list of visa-free countries for Uzbekistan.

However, the good news is that Egyptians are eligible for the Official Electronic Visa (eVisa). This digital alternative replaces the traditional sticker visa for short-term stays, eliminating the need to visit the Uzbekistan Embassy for standard tourism or short business trips.

What Types of eVisas Are Available for Egyptians?

When applying online, you will encounter three main categories based on the number of entries you require. It is crucial to choose the right one based on your travel itinerary, especially if you plan to cross borders into neighboring countries (like Tajikistan or Kyrgyzstan) and return to Uzbekistan.

• Single Entry eVisa: Allows you to enter Uzbekistan once. If you leave, you cannot re-enter on the same visa.
• Double Entry eVisa: Allows for two entries within the validity period.
• Multiple Entry eVisa: Allows for unlimited entries within the validity period.

Note: All eVisas are generally valid for 90 days from the date of issuance, but the maximum allowable stay per visit is usually 30 days.

What Are the Allowed Reasons for Travel on an eVisa?

The Uzbekistan eVisa is strictly for short-term purposes. During the application process, you must select your purpose of visit. The accepted reasons generally include:

• Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting historical sites, and cultural tours.
• Visiting Friends/Family: If you are staying with relatives (though registration rules apply).
• Short-Term Business: Attending conferences, meetings, or negotiations.

Important: The eVisa does not permit employment or long-term study. If you plan to work in Tashkent or study at a university, you must apply for a specific sticker visa at the Consulate.

What Documents Do I Need for the Uzbekistan eVisa?

For Egyptian applicants, the Uzbekistan Visa Requirements list is straightforward. You do not need physical copies, but you will need high-quality digital scans.

• Valid Passport: Your Egyptian passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your intended date of entry into Uzbekistan.
• Digital Passport Photo: A recent photo taken against a white background. It must meet specific pixel dimensions (usually 35x45mm ratio, 300 DPI) and the file size should not exceed 1MB.
• Passport Bio Page Scan: A clear, color scan of the information page of your passport (the page with your photo and details).

What Is the Processing Time for the Application?

The standard processing time for an Uzbekistan eVisa is 2 to 3 working days.

However, it is highly recommended that Egyptian travelers apply at least 10 days before their trip. System maintenance, public holidays in Uzbekistan, or minor errors in your application can cause delays.

How to Apply for the Uzbekistan eVisa?

The application process is entirely online. Follow these steps to avoid errors:

1. Fill in Personal Details: Enter your nationality (Egypt), passport type (Ordinary), and purpose of visit.
2. Select Dates: Enter your intended arrival date. The system will calculate the validity window automatically.
3. Upload Documents: Upload your photo and passport scan. Pro Tip: This is where most errors occur. Ensure your photo is not blurry and strictly follows the size guidelines.
4. Payment: Pay the visa fee using an international credit or debit card.
5. Wait for Approval: Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. The actual visa (PDF) will be sent after processing.

Why Was My Uzbekistan eVisa Rejected? (Common Reasons)

While the approval rate is high, rejections do happen. Here are common reasons why an Egyptian applicant might face rejection:

• Poor Quality Photo: If your photo is blurry, has a shadow, or isn't on a white background, the system may reject it.
• Data Mismatch: If the name on the application form does not match the passport exactly (e.g., missing a middle name).
• Passport Validity: Applying with a passport that expires in less than 3 months.
• Security Checks: Occasionally, applications are flagged for security reviews.
• Payment Failure: If your Egyptian bank blocks the transaction due to foreign currency limits, the application will not be processed.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Uzbekistan?

While travel insurance is not always explicitly demanded during the eVisa upload process, it is highly recommended and often requested by border control officers upon arrival.

Healthcare for foreigners in Uzbekistan can be expensive. A comprehensive travel insurance policy covering medical emergencies and repatriation is essential. Furthermore, having proof of insurance adds credibility to your intent as a genuine tourist.

Can I Get a Visa on Arrival in Uzbekistan?

Generally, no. Visa on Arrival (VOA) is typically reserved for citizens of countries that do not have an Uzbek diplomatic mission and cannot access the eVisa system, or for specific diplomatic situations.

Since Egyptian citizens have access to the eVisa system and there is an Embassy of Uzbekistan in Cairo, you should not rely on getting a visa on arrival. You risk being denied entry at the airport. Always secure your eVisa before you fly.

How Long Can I Stay in Uzbekistan with an eVisa?

The standard stay limit is 30 days.

It is important to understand the difference between Validity and Duration of Stay:

• Validity (90 days): The window of time during which you can enter the country.
• Duration of Stay (30 days): The counter starts the moment you stamp in. You must leave before the 30th day is up. Overstaying even by one day can result in heavy fines and deportation.

Useful Travel Tips for Egyptians Visiting Uzbekistan

• Currency: Bring USD (crisp, new notes). It is easier to exchange US Dollars for Uzbek Soms than Egyptian Pounds.
• Registration: If you stay in a hotel, they will register you automatically and give you a registration slip. Keep these slips! You may be asked to show them at the airport when you leave.
• Language: Russian is widely spoken alongside Uzbek. English is becoming more common in tourist hubs like Samarkand, but a translation app is helpful.
• Flights: Direct flights from Cairo to Tashkent may be seasonal or limited. Connecting flights via Dubai or Istanbul are common options.

Conclusion

Visiting Uzbekistan is a magical experience for Egyptians, offering a blend of Islamic heritage and Silk Road history that feels both exotic and familiar. By following this guide and securing your eVisa in advance, you can ensure a smooth start to your journey.