Uzbekistan simplifies visa procedures for the UK, Germany, and Canada

Uzbekistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with simplifying visa procedures for citizens of the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Slovakia, Australia, and New Zealand. The decision was announced during an expanded meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on December 7, focused on measures to train the population in high-demand professions and create well-paying jobs.  

During the meeting, it was highlighted that over the past five years, Uzbekistan has imported equipment worth $24 billion, launched 63,000 new production facilities, and created 1.5 million permanent jobs. Currently, there is a need for more than 200,000 qualified specialists in various economic sectors.  

To meet future labor demands, an additional 500,000 workers will be required over the next three years for enterprises launched within the framework of investment programs. President Mirziyoyev emphasized that "qualified personnel are as essential as water and air" for the effective operation of new equipment and technologies.  

"Efforts are being made to enhance the dual education system by linking technical schools with enterprises to train future specialists. For example, modern specialists are being trained in collaboration with local and international companies at the Asaka Transport and Mechanical Engineering Technical School, the Bukhara City Energy, Oil, and Gas Industry Technical School, the Shirin Energy Technical School, and Technical Schools No. 1 in Guzar district and Shahrisabz city," the report stated. 

Additionally, measures are being implemented to expand the scope of dual education by supporting private enterprises and creating favorable conditions for them.  

In collaboration with Germany, 14 technical schools are being established to train students in high-demand professions and the German language. Regional governors and sector heads have been instructed to replicate this model in at least five technical schools in each region.  

Recognizing the importance of foreign language skills in modern professions, President Mirziyoyev directed schools and vocational training centers to increase the number of foreign language classes and bring in teachers from abroad to teach in technical schools.  

The president also stressed the need to reduce poverty and improve the quality of training at 65 vocational training centers under the Ministry of Employment. Plans include securing grants and equipping centers with modern tools for high-demand professions.  

Moreover, the training programs at 13 construction training centers in different regions will be aligned with labor market demands. The admission system will be digitized, and 20,000 citizens will be trained in various professions annually.  

To certify individuals who acquire skills independently or through apprenticeships, five Vocational Qualification Assessment Centers will be established in the regions.  

As part of the broader workforce development strategy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was instructed to facilitate the visa process for citizens looking to study, improve their skills, or work in modern enterprises in countries like the UK, Germany, Canada, Slovakia, Australia, and New Zealand.  

“Many developed countries offer programs for students, such as ‘Work and Travel.’ Young people from Uzbekistan can travel abroad during their vacations to both learn and earn. To support these efforts, the Youth Affairs Agency will start providing loans to cover students' travel expenses starting next year,” the statement said.   

Additionally, measures will be taken to strengthen engagement with Uzbek citizens working abroad. Efforts will be made to ensure they receive higher wages and are provided with social and legal support.