Hong Kong and Uzbekistan agree to expand visa-free travel to 30 days

The two governments exchanged notes on June 3, 2026, confirming plans to extend visa-free access for passport holders on both sides

Hong Kong and Uzbekistan have agreed to establish a mutual visa-free arrangement that will allow visitors from both sides to stay for up to 30 days without a visa. The two governments exchanged notes on June 3, 2026, confirming the deal and committing to fast-track the implementation details, according to a press release published by the HKSAR Government on June 4, 2026.

The exchange of notes was witnessed by Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, and Uzbekistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bakhtiyor Saidov. Representatives from both governments signed off on the arrangement, and the HKSAR Government confirmed that discussions on the specifics will begin immediately.

What changes for travelers

The new arrangement represents a significant upgrade from the current visa terms between the two countries.

At present, HKSAR passport holders can visit Uzbekistan visa-free for only 10 days. That will be tripled to 30 days once the arrangement takes effect. On the Uzbek side, holders of diplomatic and service passports can currently visit Hong Kong visa-free for 14 days, but ordinary passport holders must apply for a visa to enter. Under the new deal, all Uzbek passport holders will be able to visit Hong Kong visa-free for 30 days.

Building on recent visa relaxations

The agreement builds on steps already taken to strengthen ties between Hong Kong and Central Asia. A HKSAR Government spokesman noted that Hong Kong had already relaxed the application criteria for multiple-entry business and travel visas for Uzbek nationals in September 2025.

According to the HKSAR Government press release, the spokesman said the new visa-free arrangement "will help further promote economic, trade, and tourism development between Hong Kong and Central Asia."

Both governments have stated they will work to finalize the implementation details as quickly as possible so the expanded visa-free access can come into effect at the earliest opportunity.