Mandatory HIV testing introduced for citizens returning after 90 days abroad

Uzbek citizens and foreigners who have been outside Uzbekistan for three months or more will now be subject to mandatory HIV testing. This measure is outlined in the draft law “On Amendments and Supplements to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” which was discussed today, July 8, at a regular session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis.

The draft law proposes several amendments and additions to the Law “On Combating the Spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV Infection).”

In particular, it introduces mandatory HIV testing for the following groups:

• Citizens of the Republic of Uzbekistan aged 18 to 60 who have been abroad for a continuous period of 90 days or more;
•  Foreign citizens and stateless persons permanently residing in Uzbekistan;
• Foreign citizens and stateless persons entering Uzbekistan for employment.

According to the draft, HIV testing for Uzbek citizens and stateless persons permanently residing in Uzbekistan will be funded by the State Budget. Meanwhile, foreign citizens and stateless persons entering the country for employment, as well as those permanently residing in Uzbekistan, will cover testing costs through personal funds, employer contributions, or other lawful financial sources.

Deputies noted that the adoption of the draft law will help prevent the spread of infectious diseases that pose a threat to public health, protect the health of the population, and establish effective legal mechanisms to ensure social security in the context of labor migration.

The draft law was adopted by deputies in its third reading and has been sent to the Senate for further consideration.