Uzbekistan: Authorities will tighten COVID-19-related international entry restrictions from Jan. 15 /update 36

Uzbekistan will tighten COVID-19-related international entry restrictions from Jan. 15. Disruptions likely.

Event

Uzbekistan announces tightened international entry restrictions in an ongoing effort to stem the spread of COVID-19. Effective Jan. 15, all international arrivals will be required to present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival.

Domestic Measures
Private events of up to 100 people are permitted. Businesses and services may operate with social distancing and capacity limits in place. Cultural facilities have reopened, and public events are permitted; however, businesses and government departments may not host events. Social distancing and facemasks are mandatory in indoor and outdoor public spaces, as well as on public transportation.

International Travel Restrictions
Authorities currently maintain a number of other international entry restrictions. All incoming, outgoing, and transit flights with South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Madagascar, Lesotho, Tanzania, Eswatini, and Hong Kong are suspended. Nonresident foreign nationals who have been in one of these countries within the previous 14 days will not be permitted to enter Uzbekistan.

All travelers currently entering Uzbekistan via air, rail, or vehicle border crossing must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in a testing laboratory approved by authorities.

Persons entering Uzbekistan without a valid test will be required to undergo a rapid antigen test at specialized facilities operating in airports, train stations, and border crossing points at their own expense. Uzbek nationals who test positive will be quarantined in a government facility, while foreign nationals who test positive will be barred from entry. Travelers from certain countries including Australia, Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Egypt, and the UK may be required to self-isolate at their residence or at a hotel at their own expense for 10 days on arrival.

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

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.