Uzbekistan to restrict biometric passports for deported citizens

Citizens of Uzbekistan who have been readmitted—those voluntarily or forcibly returned to the country in accordance with international treaties—will now be barred from receiving biometric passports for travel abroad for a period of two years. This measure is part of a new government resolution titled “On Additional Measures to Improve Labor Migration Processes,” adopted on May 13.

According to the resolution, starting from September 1 of this year, the Migration Agency under the Cabinet of Ministers will maintain detailed records on citizens who have been deported for violating the laws of foreign countries. This includes individuals whose actions have negatively impacted the international image and reputation of Uzbekistan. The data will be recorded in the Unified Electronic Database of Information on Migration Processes.

The database will include the following information:

- Reports from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan based on data provided by diplomatic missions and consular offices abroad;
- Details on persons readmitted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs in accordance with international agreements;
- Information collected by the Migration Agency and its representatives abroad.

Under the “Regulations on the Procedure for Traveling Abroad by Citizens of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” which were approved by presidential decree, readmitted citizens will not be eligible for the state service of issuing biometric passports for two years. This is part of broader efforts to enhance the biometric passport system and uphold the integrity of Uzbekistan’s international reputation.

However, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will retain authority to determine exceptional cases in which biometric passports may still be issued to readmitted individuals.

For reference, readmitted persons are citizens who return to Uzbekistan—either voluntarily or through forced deportation—based on international agreements. This includes citizens who stayed illegally abroad, overstayed visas, or were deported by foreign authorities.

It is worth noting that earlier reports indicated that the delivery of biometric passports for international travel will soon be available via postal service.