Uzbekistan reimbursed citizens for migration expenses totaling 12.3 billion soms

From January to September 2026, Uzbekistan received $15.2 billion through international money transfers. However, the growth rate of these transfers is slowing down: over the nine-month period, the figure increased by only 8.9% compared to the same period last year.

This data is presented in a Central Bank review on the state of the domestic currency market. During the reporting period, approximately $2 billion was sent out of Uzbekistan, resulting in a positive net balance of international remittances amounting to $13.2 billion.

Slowing Inflows in the Third Quarter

Particular attention is drawn to the decrease in inflows during the third quarter. From July to September, the country received $5.884 billion, slightly exceeding the $5.716 billion received during the same period in 2025. The annual growth in this quarter was 2.9%.

For context, it should be noted that from January to September 2025, international remittance inflows showed more significant growth—23.7% compared to the same period in 2024.

Furthermore, the review indicates that over the nine months, residents sold foreign currency to commercial banks totaling $18.9 billion. This volume is 1.2 times higher than last year's figure of $15.3 billion.

The Migration Service of Uzbekistan has allocated 22.4 billion soum to support citizens facing difficult life situations abroad during the first nine months of 2026.

During this period, thousands of Uzbek citizens received various forms of assistance, including help with repatriation, financial support, medical care, and temporary housing.

According to the agency's data, 4,968 citizens were repatriated to Uzbekistan, for which a total of 20.396 billion soum was allocated to cover return expenses.

Additionally, 1,171 people received one-time financial aid totaling 1.563 billion soum. Medical expenses were reimbursed for 38 citizens, amounting to 228.6 million soum.

Furthermore, 167 Uzbek citizens received temporary accommodation; 249 million soum was allocated to cover living expenses.

The Migration Service noted that Uzbek citizens abroad may encounter various problems, such as lack of funds for return, financial difficulties, and health issues. In such cases, the agency provides practical assistance.

Citizens in difficult situations abroad are advised to contact the Migration Service via the short number 1282 or through the Telegram bot @huquqiy_yordam_uzbot.

The agency emphasized that protecting the rights and interests of Uzbek citizens abroad remains one of its main priorities.

Over the nine-month period of 2026, the Migration Agency provided support to citizens of Uzbekistan, helping them recover $850 thousand that was unpaid abroad, as well as compensating for other amounts. Furthermore, the agency facilitated the return of 532 passports and identity documents that were held by intermediaries and employers.

Geographical Scope of Appeals

The largest number of appeals concerning unpaid wages and compensation came from Russia—a total of 533 cases. A significant number of appeals were also registered in Turkey (155 cases) and South Korea (92 cases); the remaining 37 cases were recorded in other countries.

Document Recovery

A separate issue addressed by the agency was the illegal retention of documents by workers and intermediaries. Thanks to the agency's efforts, 532 citizens were able to retrieve their passports and identity documents. 331 such cases were recorded in Russia, 185 in Turkey, 11 in Kazakhstan, and five in South Korea.

Citizens can report any problems related to employment, wages, or documents outside the country by calling the short number 1282 or contacting the Telegram bot @huquqiy_yordam_uzbot. Applications are accepted 24/7.

Previously, the Migration Agency signed an agreement with a major American recruiting firm. This agreement provides for the organization of training and subsequent employment of Uzbek citizens to participate in seasonal agricultural work in the United States under the H-2A program.