Visas
Uzbekistan has simplified entry considerably. Citizens of around 90 countries now enter visa-free, including the US (up to 30 days as of 2026), most EU countries, and the UK. Citizens of many other nationalities can apply for an e-visa online at e-visa.gov.uz — the process takes a few days and costs around $20 USD for a single entry. Check current eligibility before you travel, as the list has been expanding.
Money
The currency is the Uzbekistan Sum (UZS). Banknotes come in large denominations, so don't be alarmed to receive a thick brick of cash when changing money. ATMs are widely available in Tashkent and tourist cities but scarce in remote areas — take enough cash when heading west toward Nukus or the desert fortresses.
US dollars are the most useful foreign currency for exchange. Bills should be clean and unwrinkled; Uzbek banks and exchange offices are particular about this. Cards are accepted in larger hotels, modern restaurants, and some shops in Tashkent, but cash remains essential outside the capital.
Language
Uzbek is the official language, written in a modified Latin script since 1993 (though Cyrillic is still widely seen on older signage and documents). Russian is widely spoken, especially in Tashkent and among older generations, and is often more useful than English when communicating with locals outside the tourist circuit. English is spoken at most hotels, tourist sites, and upscale restaurants in the main cities, but limited elsewhere. Learning a few Uzbek or Russian phrases goes a long way.
Safety
Uzbekistan is a safe destination for travelers. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main concerns are petty theft in crowded bazaars and occasional bureaucratic overreach by local police (carrying photocopies of your passport is sensible). Scams targeting tourists exist but are relatively unsophisticated.
Some remote areas — particularly near the Tajikistan border in the Fergana Valley — have experienced political tensions in the past. Check current advisories before visiting border regions.
Registration
Uzbekistan requires foreigners to register where they are staying. Hotels handle this automatically. If you stay with a local family or in a private rental, you are technically required to register at the local OVIR office, though enforcement has become less strict in recent years. Keep all hotel registration slips — you may be asked to show them at the border on departure.
Health
Tap water is not safe to drink outside of Tashkent and even there it's wise to use bottled or filtered water. Pharmacies are well-stocked in cities. Medical facilities in Tashkent are adequate for routine issues; for anything serious, consider evacuation to Europe or Dubai. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended.