Uzbekistan

Översikt

Uzbekistan’s closed and authoritarian political system results in an internal security environment that appears stable, but that can sporadically erupt as suppressed tensions boil over, as in 2005 when security forces shot dead a large number of protesters and Islamist militants in Andijon. In recent years insurgent and terrorist activity has been limited, not least by the country’s isolation. The authoritarian political system continues to pose a latent risk of provoking civil unrest or a wider crisis, but key challenges to operators centre on issues related to government impunity such as corruption, expropriation or human rights abuses. Violent crime against foreign nationals is rare. Following the passing of long-time leader Islam Karimov in 2016, there were questions about a smooth power transition in the country. Despite this, the process went smoothly and reforms have been instituted by the current president Shavkat Mirziyoyev since then.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Uzbekistan. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza. Travellers might also consider the vaccinations for Hepatitis B and rabies, according to the specifics of their travel.

Malaria is present in the rural areas of Surkhandarya and the Termez provinces. However, outside of these two provinces, malaria is not considered a hazard. Uzbekistan received the WHO malaria-free certification in 2018.

A unique public health hazard in Uzbekistan is Echinococcus, which affects a number of people, generally those involved in livestock rearing. While it is an area of concern, the majority of travellers will face a very low risk.

There is an estimated number of 52.000 people living with HIV/AIDS in Uzbekistan. The HIV epidemic is spreading most rapidly among people who inject drugs.

Travellers should be aware of the risks associated with travellers’ ailments such as diarrhoea. Travellers must take all necessary precautions when drinking water or eating food within the country and only drink water from sealed bottles obtained from a reputable source or water that has been boiled.

It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration.

Tuberculosis is highly endemic in Uzbekistan with high rates of the multidrug-resistant TB.

Public medical facilities throughout Uzbekistan are extremely limited and basic medical supplies are in short supply. Travel insurance is strongly recommended although it may not preclude the need for cash payments to doctors or facilities in some instances.

The most popular option with expatriates travelling to or working in Uzbekistan is the Tashkent International Medical clinic located near the Tashkent International School. All the staff at the facility will speak English.

There are concerns over pharmaceuticals in Uzbekistan as most drugs are imported from around the CIS that raises issues of quality and safety. Additionally there is a strong black market demand for pharmaceuticals that adds a criminal element in addition to the dangers of counterfeit goods. Prescription medications should be brought in clearly-marked containers with their generic names and supporting documentation from your doctor.

Pass

Your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required.

Visum

A visa is required for all visitors for entry into Uzbekistan, the only exception being nationals of Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia and Ukraine.

Citizens of the EU, Australia, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, the UK and the UAE do not need a visa for visits up to 30 days. Citizens of many countries can get e-visas through https://e-visa.gov.uz/main within three working days by email.

Upon entry into Uzbekistan, all travellers present in the country for more than three business days must register with the Office of Entry, Exit and Citizenship (also known as “OVIR”). Hotel guests are registered automatically.