Uzbekistan: Authorities maintain COVID-19-related measures as of Aug. 23 /update 31

Event

Uzbekistan is maintaining international entry and domestic measures imposed to limit the spread of COVID-19 as of Aug. 23.

Domestic Restrictions
All public events are indefinitely suspended. Theaters, concert halls, and other event venues are closed. Additionally, authorities are implementing mandatory vaccination for certain groups including military personnel and workers in the retail, catering, and service sectors.

Authorities previously reintroduced a color-coded system to denote epidemiological risk in the country. Regions are classified as "red," "yellow," or "green" in descending order of risk. As of Aug. 23, all regions of the country are classified as red. Inter-regional travel is restricted to essential use only. Exceptions will be made for those seeking urgent medical treatment, international air travelers who possess a valid air ticket, freight transporters, and essential workers. Face masks must be worn on public transport.

Private gatherings of up to 30 persons are permitted. Public transport vehicles may not exceed 50 percent capacity. All persons must comply with social distancing guidelines of 2 meters (6.5 feet) and wear facemasks while in public. Medical screenings may be conducted before entering grocery stores and markets.

International Entry Restrictions
All travelers entering Uzbekistan via rail or air must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival in a testing laboratory approved by authorities; for a list of approved labs click here.

Persons entering Uzbekistan at vehicle border checkpoints must take a rapid antigen test at specialized facilities operating at the border at their own expense. Uzbek nationals who test positive will be quarantined in a government facility, while foreign nationals that test positive will be barred from entry.

Authorities have designated countries Green, Yellow, or Red, depending on their assessment of the epidemiological threat in each location. COVID-19 PCR tests are mandatory for all persons entering the country. Travelers from green countries are not required to quarantine. Travelers who have visited any yellow or red locations within the previous 10 days must self-isolate for 14 days on arrival.

While international travel is permitted, due to low demand, flights from several destinations have been effectively suspended.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

Uzbekistan Ministry of Public Health

List of Approved COVID-19 Testing Labs (in Uzbek)

World Health Organization (WHO)