Uzbeks face more entry refusals as countries tighten rules

**Uzbeks face more entry refusals as countries tighten rules**

In recent years, Uzbek citizens have increasingly been turned away at foreign airports and border crossings, while several countries have also tightened or eliminated visa-free access for them, according to local media reports and official statements.

The National Statistics Committee says Uzbek citizens made 7.6 million trips abroad for tourism in 2025. Another about 1.5 million traveled overseas for work.

In Türkiye, 163 Uzbek citizens were denied entry in the first two months of 2024 after checks on foreigners aged 20-35 were tightened, Uzbekistan’s External Labor Migration Agency said. Uzbekistan’s Consulate General in Istanbul said people suspected of terrorism, human trafficking or smuggling are treated as “undesirable passengers” and sent back.

In Russia, scrutiny of Central Asian migrants intensified after the March 22, 2024 attack on Crocus City Hall near Moscow. Dozens of Uzbek citizens said they were detained at Russian airports and sent back. Russia’s Interior Ministry says the stricter controls are linked to security and the fight against illegal migration.

Mongolia refused entry to 167 Uzbek citizens in 2024, citing incorrect visa categories and insufficient funds, among other reasons. In July 2026, about 20 Uzbek citizens were reportedly denied entry at Tbilisi International Airport.

In the United Arab Emirates, 31 Uzbek citizens were refused entry less than a week after three Uzbek citizens were arrested over the killing of rabbi Zvi Kogan in November 2024.

Thailand ended 60-day visa-free entry and visa on arrival for Uzbek citizens from Sept. Montenegro ended its limited visa-free regime in October 2025, and Ecuador introduced a transit visa.

A visa-free regime between Uzbekistan and the UAE came into force in February 2024. Under Georgian law, Uzbek citizens may stay in the country visa-free for up to one year.