Uzbekistan Seeks to Simplify Visa Process for Canada, Argentina, Australia

Uzbekistan is taking steps to ease visa procedures for countries without embassies or consulates in the country, including Canada, Argentina, and Australia.

Uzbekistan's Foreign Ministry recently met with the Regional Director of VFS Global to discuss streamlining the visa application process for these nations, aiming to facilitate easier travel and diplomatic relations, The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

The discussions focused on reducing the need for Uzbek citizens to travel to Kazakhstan for visa applications. Instead, it was proposed that biometric data be collected within Uzbekistan and interviews conducted online, making the process more accessible and less costly.

The meeting was attended by Sh. Mishra, VFS Global’s Regional Director for the CIS and Eastern Europe, and T. Tuychiyev, head of the company's Uzbekistan office.

According to the Foreign Ministry's press service, the sides explored prospects for expanding VFS Global’s office network across various regions of Uzbekistan.

A key outcome of the meeting was the agreement to launch a mobile visa application service for group applicants. This paid service would allow applicants - especially those from remote areas - to access visa support without having to travel to central visa centers in Tashkent or Samarkand.

Particular attention was paid to simplifying the visa process for countries that do not have diplomatic missions in Uzbekistan, such as Canada, Argentina, and Australia.

In the absence of accredited consulates, applying for a visa usually entails significant time and financial costs. To address this, Uzbekistan proposed shifting part of the application process into the country itself. This would include collecting biometric data through local VFS Global offices and conducting online interviews where possible.

Both parties expressed a strong interest in deepening cooperation, implementing joint initiatives, and improving the quality and accessibility of visa services for Uzbek citizens.