How to Obtain a Residence Permit in Uzbekistan

Requirements and Procedures

From property investment to employment — key considerations for foreign nationals.

https://www.uylarsales.com is a real estate platform, has outlined several pathways for obtaining a residence permit in Uzbekistan for citizens of countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and others. These include property acquisition, marriage, employment, and other qualifying grounds.

Initial Steps

Before applying for a residence permit, foreign nationals must register with the Migration and Citizenship Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. After residing legally in the country for at least two months, a residence permit can be requested. Once eligibility is established, the application and supporting documents must be submitted without delay.

Since January 2023, Uzbekistan has simplified the process for granting permanent residence to foreign nationals and stateless persons. For foreigners purchasing real estate, an accelerated application process is now available, with a maximum processing time of 68 working days. Applications may be submitted online.

Benefits of a Residence Permit in Uzbekistan

A residence permit grants foreign nationals nearly the same rights as Uzbek citizens, except voting rights. Key benefits include:

• Unrestricted legal stay in Uzbekistan and re-entry rights.

• Eligibility for government pensions (for retirees).

• Access to official employment, with social security entitlements if available.

• Ability to open bank accounts and access financial services.

• Admission to educational institutions, including universities.

• Right to register as an individual entrepreneur and start a business.

Grounds for Obtaining a Residence Permit

A residence permit may be granted based on the following legal grounds:

1. Property Purchase

   • Real estate purchase in specified amounts:

     • $100,000 in Karakalpakstan

     • $300,000 in Tashkent

2. Marriage

   • Spouses of Uzbek citizens or residents are eligible after five years of cohabitation.

3. Employment

   • In-demand foreign specialists and their family members may qualify.

4. Investment

   • Direct investments of at least $3 million in Uzbekistan's economy.

   • Resident status can be extended to immediate family members.

5. Family Reunification

   • Minor children, grandchildren, or elderly family members can relocate to join family in Uzbekistan.

6. Ethnic Ties

   • Former Uzbek citizens, ethnic Uzbeks, and their families are eligible for permanent residency.

7. Political Asylum

   • Granted to those facing persecution due to race, religion, or political views.

Application Process for a Residence Permit

The procedure generally includes:

1. Registration with Internal Affairs

   • The applicant must register with the local Department of Migration and Citizenship, submit all necessary documents, and pay the state duty.

2. Submission of Application

   • Application and required documents are submitted to the same department.

3. Provision of Supporting Information

   • A certificate proving no prior registration or outstanding legal matters in the applicant's previous country of residence.

Required Documents

Foreign nationals must submit the following at the local Migration and Citizenship Department:

• Application form (in duplicate, according to Ministry of Internal Affairs format).

• Foreign passport or travel document (for stateless persons).

• Notarized letter of sponsorship from an Uzbek resident, with supporting property ownership documents and data on residents at that address.

• Notarized copies of marriage certificate and children’s birth certificates (if applicable).

• Criminal background check from country of origin.

• Receipt confirming payment of state fees.

• Two passport-sized photographs (35x45 mm).

Appointments can be scheduled through Uzbekistan’s Unified Public Services Portal, where application status can also be tracked. Instructions and forms are available on the official website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Associated Costs

Total costs may include:

• Visa fees: $40 to $350

• Registration: $0.50

• Residence permit fee: ~$27

Additional expenses may include relocation, rental housing, and visits to migration services.

Alternatively, foreign nationals may explore dual citizenship options without needing to reside in Uzbekistan, though this should be discussed with an immigration lawyer.

Grounds for Denial or Revocation

Applications may be denied or revoked if:

• The applicant violates laws or commits offenses.

• Incomplete or false documentation is submitted.

• The applicant poses a threat to national security or public order.

• The permit is not renewed within the prescribed period.

• The applicant resides permanently in another country or submits fraudulent documents.

Permit Extension and Citizenship Eligibility

• Residence permits are typically valid for five years, extendable for another 60 months.

• For applicants aged 60 or above, the validity period may be up to ten years.

• After five years of continuous residence, foreign nationals may apply for Uzbek citizenship, provided all legal requirements are met.

Conclusion

Uzbekistan is actively opening its economy to foreign investment, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs. A residence permit in Uzbekistan offers foreign nationals a stable legal status and access to a broad range of rights and services. Thorough understanding of the legal process and working with qualified immigration advisors can streamline the application process and reduce risk.