Hong Kong, Uzbekistan Eye 30-Day Visa-Free Travel as Direct Flights Plan Takes Shape

In a significant step towards boosting tourism, business ties and people-to-people exchanges, Hong Kong and Uzbekistan have agreed to begin detailed discussions on a reciprocal visa-free travel arrangement that would allow eligible travellers from both sides to stay for up to 30 days without a visa.

The proposal was announced during Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu‘s visit to Tashkent on June 3, where he met Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov. Officials from both governments exchanged diplomatic notes confirming their intention to advance the agreement.

What the Proposed Visa-Free Deal Means

If finalised, the arrangement is expected to simplify travel procedures and grant equal visa-free access of up to 30 days for travellers from Hong Kong and Uzbekistan.

The move is expected to:

• Boost tourism between Hong Kong and Central Asia
• Facilitate business travel and investment opportunities
• Encourage cultural and educational exchanges
• Strengthen long-term trade and economic cooperation
• Improve connectivity between the two destinations

Current Travel Rules

At present, Hong Kong SAR passport holders can enter Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 10 days.

Meanwhile, Uzbek diplomatic and service passport holders may visit Hong Kong without a visa for up to 14 days. Ordinary Uzbek passport holders still require a visa to enter Hong Kong.

The proposed arrangement would significantly expand these privileges and place travellers from both sides on equal footing.

Direct Flights to Boost Connectivity

The two sides have also agreed to launch direct flights between Tashkent and Hong Kong, a move expected to further strengthen tourism, business links and cultural exchanges.

Officials believe the combination of direct air connectivity and visa-free travel could pave the way for closer economic cooperation and increased visitor flows between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan in the coming years.