Living in Uzbekistan: the ultimate expat guide

Uzbekistan has transformed its visa regime since 2018, introducing streamlined e-visa procedures and expanding visa-free access to over 90 countries. The June 2025 launch of the Golden Visa program marks another milestone in attracting international talent and investment. Whether you're planning a reconnaissance trip, accepting a job offer, or investing in business, understanding the available pathways ensures smooth entry and legal residence.

E-Visa: the fast-track option

The E-Visa system covers citizens of over 90 countries including the US, EU nations, India, and UAE. Valid for stays up to 30 days with single or multiple entry options, it costs just USD 20 and processes in as little as three business days. Applications are submitted entirely online through the official portal, requiring only passport details and a digital photo. This option suits professionals conducting initial site visits, consultants on short assignments, or tourists exploring relocation possibilities before committing to longer-term arrangements.

Visa-free entry: who qualifies?

Citizens of all EU countries, the UK, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Israel, and Indonesia can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Americans over age 55 traveling for tourism also enjoy this privilege. Recent agreements have extended visa-free access to Chinese citizens (effective June 2025), with negotiations ongoing for Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, India, Pakistan, Egypt, and Iran. These provisions allow initial exploration without bureaucratic burden, though longer stays require formal visa applications.

Work visas and permits: the employment pathway

Foreign nationals accepting employment must secure both an E Visa (work visa) and work permit. Employers initiate the process by obtaining a Corporate Work License, then sponsoring the foreign employee's application. Initial permits typically cover one year with annual renewal options, though the complete process spans 2-3 months. Tech companies, international schools, engineering firms, and consulting agencies regularly sponsor qualified foreign professionals. The government prioritizes sectors facing skills shortages, particularly IT, specialized engineering, and English language education.

Business and investor visas

The Business Visa (B-2) serves company representatives conducting commercial activities requiring an invitation from a registered Uzbek entity. Investment Visas target those purchasing equity stakes or establishing businesses, demanding proof of share acquisition or company formation plus certification from the State Services Agency. These categories facilitate market entry while establishing legal commercial presence, often transitioning to work visas once operations scale.

Golden Visa: investor residence program

Launched June 1, 2025, the Golden Visa grants 5-year residence permits for a principal investment of USD 250,000, with family members (spouse, children, parents) eligible for USD 150,000 each. This program appeals to entrepreneurs, retirees with substantial savings, and investors seeking Central Asian market access. While renewal procedures remain under development, the program represents Uzbekistan's most significant immigration liberalization, competing with regional alternatives in Georgia, Armenia, and Turkey. The investment threshold positions it competitively against European golden visa programs requiring substantially higher commitments.

Student visas and other categories

The A-1 Visa covers students and interns enrolled in recognized institutions, requiring admission documentation and proof of financial support. Standard tourist visas issued through embassies remain available for travelers from countries not covered by e-visa or visa-free arrangements. Costs range from USD 40-50 for single entry to USD 160 for annual multiple-entry permits, with each additional entry adding USD 10.

Registration requirements: a critical compliance step

All foreigners must register with authorities within 3 days of arrival and maintain continuous registration throughout their stay. Hotels typically handle this automatically, but those renting private accommodations must register through local mahalla (neighborhood) committees. Failure to register incurs penalties and may complicate future visa applications or renewals. This obligation applies even when moving between cities within Uzbekistan, requiring re-registration at each location.

Useful contacts

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs operates a hotline at +998 71-200-00-88 for general inquiries, with visa-specific questions directed to +998 71-236-27-07. Services operate in Uzbek, Russian, and English. Embassies and consulates abroad provide additional support for visa applications, invitation letters, and document authentication.

Uzbekistan's labor market reflects ongoing economic transformation, with unemployment declining to 5.1% in H1 2025 and formal employment expanding rapidly. The shift from informal to formal work creates opportunities for skilled internationals, particularly in technology, education, and specialist consulting. Recent salary increases and tax reforms improve compensation packages, while entrepreneurial initiatives benefit from streamlined business registration and special economic zone incentives.

Labor market dynamics

Of the 20.3 million working-age population, 15.4 million participate actively in the labor force, with 14.6 million employed and 781,600 seeking work. The formal sector now accounts for 8 million workers (55%), up 19% year-over-year, while informal employment declined to 4.8 million (33%), down 13.6%. This formalization trend strengthens labor protections, social security coverage, and career progression opportunities. An additional 1.8 million Uzbek citizens work abroad, primarily in Russia and Kazakhstan, reflecting regional labor mobility patterns common across Central Asia.

High-demand sectors for expats

Information technology leads foreign recruitment, with government investment in digital infrastructure and technoparks in Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara creating demand for developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity specialists. English language education attracts native speakers to international schools and language centers offering competitive packages. The textile industry, a traditional economic pillar, seeks production management and quality control expertise to modernize operations. Tourism, expanding rapidly with 7.5 million annual visitors, generates opportunities in hospitality management, tour operations, and heritage conservation. Renewable energy projects, particularly solar and wind installations, recruit engineers and project managers, while construction of commercial and residential developments requires experienced supervisors and architects.

Salary levels across sectors

Compensation varies significantly by industry and qualification level. The following table provides monthly salary ranges to help assess earning potential and negotiate appropriate packages.

Sources: Golden Pages, Remote People, WageIndicator

The minimum wage was raised to 1,271,000 UZS monthly (approximately USD 99) effective August 1, 2025. Skilled expats typically negotiate substantially higher compensation, often supplemented by housing allowances, vehicle provisions, international health insurance, and annual flights home.

Starting a business

Foreign entrepreneurship has become increasingly viable through administrative reforms. Company registration proceeds through the State Services Agency, requiring a tax identification number (TIN), local bank account, and social fund enrollment. Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) offer flexibility for small to medium ventures, while Joint Stock Companies (JSCs) suit larger operations. Minimum capital requirements vary by sector. Special economic zones provide tax holidays up to 10 years, customs exemptions, and streamlined permitting. Most procedures are now digitized through the my.gov.uz portal, reducing registration timelines to several weeks.

Working conditions and employee rights

The standard workweek spans 40 hours across five days. Employees receive minimum 15 working days annual leave, extended to 18 days in certain sectors and 30 days for educators and healthcare workers. The calendar includes 13 paid public holidays. Social security contributions total 25% of gross salary (12% employee, 13% employer), funding pensions, basic healthcare, and unemployment benefits. Maternity leave extends 126 days with full salary continuation. Employment contracts must be drafted in Uzbek, with certified translations permissible. Notice periods typically run one month, extending to three months for senior positions.

Uzbekistan's tax framework underwent substantial reform in 2025, simplifying compliance and standardizing rates to attract foreign investment. The system features flat-rate personal and corporate income taxes, with increasingly digitized filing procedures reducing administrative burden. Understanding these obligations upfront helps optimize financial planning while ensuring legal compliance.

Personal income tax

Individual Income Tax (IIT) applies at a flat 12% rate on employment income, self-employment earnings, and business profits. Tax residency (183+ days annually) determines liability scope: residents pay tax on worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on Uzbek-source income. A standard monthly deduction of one minimum wage (1,271,000 UZS in 2025) automatically reduces taxable income. Dividends and interest suffer 5% withholding tax, rental income faces 12%, and capital gains on shares and property held under three years incur 12% tax, with exemptions beyond that threshold. The tax year follows the calendar year (January 1-December 31), with returns due by April 1 of the following year.

Corporate taxation

Corporate Income Tax (CIT) stands at 15% of net profits for most businesses, reduced to 7.5% for qualifying activities in free economic zones and priority sectors. Microfinance institutions and telecommunications operators remain subject to a higher 20% rate. Dividends paid to non-resident shareholders incur 10% withholding tax, potentially reduced under bilateral tax treaties. Interest, royalties, and technical service fees paid abroad also face 10% withholding. Tax losses can be carried forward 5 years, helping offset startup phase deficits. Quarterly provisional returns are mandatory, followed by final annual declarations.

Value-added tax

Value Added Tax (VAT) maintains a standard 12% rate as of January 2025, applied to most goods and services. Certain categories qualify for 0% rating: exported goods and services, international transportation, essential medicines, and medical equipment. VAT registration becomes compulsory once annual turnover exceeds 1 billion UZS (approximately USD 77,500). Monthly returns and payment are due within 20 days after month-end. Mandatory electronic invoicing, fully implemented in 2024, facilitates tracking and compliance while reducing audit disputes. Exporters receive VAT credit refunds within 60 days of filing.

Social security contributions

The Unified Social Payment (USP), consolidated in 2023, combines all social security levies at a total 25% rate on gross salary (12% employee portion, 13% employer portion). This funds state pensions, basic healthcare, and unemployment insurance. Contributions are capped at 12 times monthly minimum wage (15,252,000 UZS in 2025), with no additional liability on earnings above that threshold. Self-employed individuals remit the full 25% on declared income. Payment deadlines fall on the 15th of the following month, with daily penalties of 0.1% for late payment.

Property and land taxes

Property Tax applies to building owners at rates from 0.6% to 3% of cadastral value for individuals, and 0.3% to 3% for businesses, varying by location and use. Agricultural land faces separate Land Tax calculated per hectare based on soil quality. Residential properties under 50 m² enjoy full exemption. Annual declarations and payments are due before October 1.

Additional levies

Resource Extraction Tax ranges from 5% to 55% depending on extracted materials. Excise Tax targets alcohol, tobacco, fuel, and luxury vehicles with specific rate schedules updated annually. Telecommunications companies pay an additional 8% Telecom Fee on revenue. The Road User Fee, based on vehicle engine capacity and age, funds highway maintenance, ranging from 200,000 UZS for small cars to 2,500,000 UZS for heavy commercial vehicles.

Tax treaties and planning

Uzbekistan maintains over 60 double taxation avoidance agreements, including with major economies. These treaties typically reduce withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalties. Expats should verify their tax residency status in their home country to optimize obligations. Engaging local tax advisors familiar with recent reforms and bilateral treaties proves essential for proper structuring and compliance, particularly given frequent regulatory updates.

Uzbekistan operates a two-tier healthcare system: universal public coverage funded through social contributions, and expanding private facilities catering to affluent locals and expatriates. While the public sector struggles with underfunding and equipment shortages, private international clinics in Tashkent provide modern care meeting Western standards. Comprehensive international health insurance remains essential for expats to access quality treatment and ensure medical evacuation coverage if required.

Public healthcare infrastructure

The state system theoretically provides free universal coverage, but practical limitations include outdated equipment, medicine shortages, and long specialist wait times, particularly outside major cities. Public hospital facilities often lag international standards. General practitioner consultations cost around 200,000 UZS (USD 15.50), with specialists charging 300,000-500,000 UZS (USD 23-39). Major surgeries frequently require transfer to Tashkent or international evacuation, underscoring the importance of proper insurance coverage.

Private medical facilities

Private healthcare has expanded rapidly, particularly in Tashkent, where several facilities offer international-standard care. The Tashkent International Medical Clinic, Swiss Clinic, and American Medical Center employ English-speaking staff, maintain modern equipment, and follow European or American protocols. General consultations run 700,000-1,000,000 UZS (USD 54-78), while specialist visits cost 1,000,000-1,500,000 UZS (USD 78-116). These clinics typically accept international insurance with direct billing, simplifying payment procedures and avoiding out-of-pocket expenses.

International health insurance

Securing comprehensive international coverage is non-negotiable for serious expats. Standard policies cover consultations, hospitalization, medications, and diagnostics, while premium plans include emergency medical evacuation to Dubai, Istanbul, or Moscow. Leading providers serving Uzbekistan include Cigna Global, Allianz Care, Bupa Global, and April International. Annual premiums range from USD 1,500 for young singles with high deductibles to USD 8,000 for family coverage with comprehensive benefits and low deductibles. Review provider networks, reimbursement caps, and evacuation provisions carefully, prioritizing policies including medical repatriation.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies are widely available in cities, with chains like Dori-Darmon and Farmiya well-stocked. Many common medications are sold over-the-counter without prescriptions, though quality and origin vary. European or American imports cost 30-50% more than local or Russian generics. For chronic conditions, bring sufficient supply from home with certified prescriptions translated into Russian or Uzbek. Recommended vaccinations (Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies for rural areas) are available at private international clinics.

Emergency services and contacts

Dial 03 for ambulance services, though public ambulances are often slow and poorly equipped. Private clinics operate their own emergency response, typically faster and better equipped. Tashkent International Medical Clinic maintains a 24/7 hotline at +998 71 291-00-90. For serious situations, embassies can facilitate medical evacuation arrangements. Always carry insurance documents, identification, and a list of allergies or current medications, ideally translated into Russian or English.

Uzbekistan's national education system provides 11 years of compulsory schooling, but expat families overwhelmingly choose international schools offering globally recognized curricula. These institutions, concentrated in Tashkent, ensure educational continuity and facilitate future transitions if relocating again. Tuition represents a significant budget item, often covered by employer relocation packages.

National education system

The public system delivers 11 years of mandatory education: 4 years primary, 5 years secondary, and 2 years upper secondary. The academic year runs September through June. Instruction is primarily in Uzbek, with some schools offering Russian sections in urban areas. Core subjects include mathematics, sciences, history, foreign languages (Russian and English), and physical education. While theoretically free, the public system suffers from overcrowded classrooms (30-40 students), aging infrastructure, and traditional teaching methods. Expat families rarely enroll children beyond temporary cultural immersion experiences.

International schools in Tashkent

The capital hosts three major international schools. British School of Tashkent (BST), part of the Nord Anglia Education network, follows the National Curriculum of England from Early Years through Year 13, preparing students for IGCSE and A-Level examinations. Established in 2015, it enrolls approximately 300 students from 45 nationalities with a 1:9 teacher-student ratio ensuring personalized attention. Annual tuition for 2025/2026 ranges from USD 20,400 (Early Years) to USD 26,250 (Year 12-13), plus USD 1,000 registration and USD 2,000 refundable deposit. CIS International School Tashkent delivers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program in English and Russian, attracting significant Russian-speaking enrollment. Fees run USD 8,500 (primary) to USD 12,000 (secondary) annually, positioning it as a more accessible alternative. Tashkent International School (TIS), an American curriculum school, awards the High School Diploma with Advanced Placement (AP) course options. Tuition falls in the intermediate range of USD 15,000-20,000 annually.

Education outside Tashkent

Beyond the capital, international schooling options are virtually nonexistent. Samarkand and Bukhara, despite their tourist status, lack accredited international schools. Some local private initiatives offer bilingual Uzbek-English or Uzbek-Russian instruction without international accreditation. Families relocating to these cities typically opt for distance learning through recognized platforms like CNED, Wolsey Hall Oxford, or K12 International Academy, supplemented by private tutoring. This approach demands significant parental involvement and student self-discipline.

Higher education

Uzbekistan hosts several reputable public universities, including National University of Uzbekistan, Tashkent State Technical University, and Tashkent Medical Academy. Higher education follows the Bachelor (4 years), Master (2 years), and PhD (3 years) structure, with programs increasingly offered in English alongside Uzbek and Russian. International student tuition ranges USD 1,500-3,000 annually depending on field, making it attractive for engineering, medicine, economics, and language studies. International recognition of degrees varies: technical and medical programs enjoy strong regional reputation, while humanities degrees often require additional validation for Western markets. Several partnerships with Western universities enable dual degree programs.

Extracurricular activities and tutoring

International schools typically offer extensive extracurricular programs: sports (soccer, basketball, swimming), arts (music, theater, visual arts), and academic clubs. These are often included in tuition or charged modestly (USD 50-100 per term), fostering social integration for expat children. Private tutoring is widely available in Tashkent, with English-speaking tutors charging USD 10-25 per hour depending on experience and subject. Online platforms like Preply or iTalki also connect students with specialized tutors for remote instruction.

Uzbekistan's property market offers remarkable value compared to Western standards, particularly for rentals. Tashkent dominates expat housing demand with diverse options from renovated Soviet-era apartments to modern gated communities. While most expats rent initially, property purchase has become more accessible following recent regulatory liberalization, though financing remains challenging for foreigners.

Types of accommodation

Urban housing stock comprises primarily apartments in Soviet-era blocks (5-16 stories), many now renovated, alongside new construction offering modern amenities and enhanced security. Sizes range from 50 m² two-bedroom units to 150 m² spacious four-bedroom apartments. Houses (cottages) in suburbs or residential neighborhoods appeal to families seeking gardens and space, typically 150-300 m² with courtyards, garages, and occasionally pools. Gated communities, a recent development in Tashkent, specifically target expats and affluent locals, featuring concierge services, fitness facilities, and children's play areas.

Rental costs in Tashkent

In central Tashkent, three-bedroom apartments rent for 11,700,000-19,000,000 UZS (USD 907-1,473) monthly, while suburban locations drop to 6,500,000-11,700,000 UZS (USD 504-907). Studio apartments in the center cost 5,800,000-9,100,000 UZS (USD 450-705), versus 3,900,000-6,500,000 UZS (USD 302-504) in less central areas. Utilities (water, electricity, heating, internet) add 400,000-800,000 UZS (USD 31-62) monthly depending on size and season. Lease agreements typically run one year with deposits equivalent to 1-2 months' rent. Some landlords require several months' prepayment, a common regional practice.

Desirable neighborhoods

Mirzo Ulugbek district, in central Tashkent, hosts embassies, international schools (notably British School of Tashkent), and upscale shopping. Rents rank among the highest but deliver proximity to services and optimal security. Chilanzar, a planned residential district, offers excellent value with tree-lined avenues, markets, and complete infrastructure, attracting middle-class families. Yunusabad, a modern developing quarter, features new construction, shopping centers, and an international atmosphere, favored by young expat professionals. Shaykhantaur, a partially renovated historic sector, balances traditional charm with modernity, near the old city and bazaars. Tashkent City, the emerging business district, houses office towers, international hotels, and luxury residences.

Property purchase

Foreign property purchase has relaxed since 2019. Non-residents can acquire apartments without prior authorization, though land purchases generally require establishing a local company. Tashkent prices per square meter range from USD 1,500 (suburban, older) to USD 3,500 (central, new luxury), meaning USD 90,000-210,000 for a 60 m² apartment. Notary fees run approximately 1% of purchase price plus registration taxes. Mortgage financing remains largely inaccessible to foreigners, with prohibitive rates around 22% over 20 years. Most transactions proceed as cash purchases in US dollars. Engaging a local attorney to verify property title and ensure no outstanding liens is essential.

Practical procedures

Renting typically requires presenting passport and valid visa, sometimes accompanied by an employment letter. Rental contracts (договор аренды) must be registered with tax authorities or landlords face penalties. Expats must also obtain registration certificates (прописка) within 3 days of moving in, issued by local mahalla (neighborhood committee). This free procedure is mandatory for legal residence status. Local platforms like OLX.uz and Makler.uz list property offerings, though engaging real estate agents (commission of 50% of one month's rent) facilitates searches and negotiations, especially for non-Russian speakers. Visit multiple properties, inspect installations (plumbing, heating, electrical), and negotiate deposit refund conditions before signing.

Relocating to Uzbekistan demands thorough planning and advance preparation spanning several months to address administrative, logistical, and personal requirements. This comprehensive checklist ensures you don't overlook critical steps as you prepare for this significant transition.

Three to six months before departure

1. Secure visa and work permit: Initiate immigration procedures immediately upon contract signing, as work visa processing with permits can require 2-3 full months.
2. Arrange international health insurance: Compare offerings from Cigna, Allianz, Bupa, or April to obtain coverage including medical evacuation, essential in Uzbekistan.
3. Register children at international school: Contact British School of Tashkent, CIS, or TIS immediately, as places are limited and admissions require application review.
4. Organize international moving: Obtain quotes from specialist international movers (sea freight to Central Asia takes 6-8 weeks).
5. Cancel or suspend contracts: Utilities, internet, phone subscriptions, and local insurance require termination or suspension depending on your situation.
6. Update identity documents: Verify passport validity (minimum 6 months beyond planned return date) and obtain an international driving permit if planning to drive.
7. Research tax implications: Consult a tax advisor to clarify your residence status and filing obligations in both your home country and Uzbekistan, particularly regarding double taxation treaties.
8. Translate and legalize important documents: Degrees, marriage certificates, birth certificates, and medical records should be translated into Russian or Uzbek and certified.

One month before departure

9. Book temporary accommodation: Arrange hotel or serviced apartment for initial weeks while searching for permanent housing on-site.
10. Open local bank account: Inquire with your employer about recommended banks (Kapitalbank, Ipoteka Bank, Hamkorbank) and required documentation.
11. Complete vaccinations: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and depending on areas visited, rabies. Retain international vaccination certificates.
12. Assemble medical kit: Common medications, chronic treatment for minimum 3 months, insect repellent, and sun protection.
13. Notify authorities: Social security, pension funds, unemployment offices, and tax services must be informed of your departure.
14. Prepare cash reserves: Bring several hundred dollars or euros in cash for initial expenses; currency exchange to Uzbek soms is straightforward in Tashkent.

Upon arrival

15. Register with authorities: Within 3 days, obtain registration certificate (прописка) from neighborhood committee (mahalla), mandatory for legal stay.
16. Register with your embassy: Consular registration facilitates future procedures (passport renewal, civil documents, voting).
17. Obtain local SIM card: Operators Beeline, UMS, and Ucell offer generous data plans for 50,000-100,000 UZS monthly, essential for navigation and communication.
18. Locate essential services: Identify supermarkets, pharmacies, international clinics, schools, places of worship, police stations, and your embassy quickly.
19. Join expat communities: Facebook groups (Expats in Tashkent, Tashkent Internationals), networking events, and forums like Expat.com facilitate integration and tips exchange.
20. Begin language learning: Even basic Russian dramatically simplifies daily interactions; private lessons cost 50,000-100,000 UZS per hour.

This checklist covers essentials, though each family or professional situation may require adaptations. Advance planning, flexibility, and open-mindedness remain your best allies for successful relocation to Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan delivers rich cultural experiences for history enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and urban dwellers alike. Three UNESCO World Heritage cities anchor the cultural landscape, while mountains, deserts, and emerging urban amenities provide diverse lifestyle options. The country's recent recognition as a top cultural tourism destination reflects successful heritage preservation and tourism development efforts.

UNESCO heritage and historical sites

Samarkand, the Silk Road jewel, dazzles with the Registan, a trio of madrassahs featuring turquoise and gold ceramic facades representing pinnacle Timurid architecture. The Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a stunning array of blue mausoleums, and Ulugh Beg Observatory, testament to 15th-century scientific advancement, complete essential visits. Bukhara, a living museum city, preserves over 140 classified monuments including the Ark of Bukhara fortress, Kalon Tower, and Samanid Mausoleum. Khiva, the walled Itchan Kala enclave, transports visitors into an oriental tale with cobbled lanes, madrassahs, and palaces. These three cities, connected by fast trains, enable regular weekend escapes from Tashkent.

Outdoor activities and sports

The Tian Shan and Pamir-Alai mountains near Tashkent and Samarkand offer exceptional hiking from May through October. Chimgan, a modest ski resort 80 km from the capital, attracts winter visitors with beginner and intermediate slopes. Summer hiking trails lead to alpine lakes and meadows ideal for camping. Aydarkul Lake in the Kyzylkum Desert enables yurt stays, camel treks, and cycling through lunar landscapes. Mountain biking enthusiasts explore mountain foothills, while Tashkent clubs (Tashkent Tennis Club, Olympic Sports Complex) provide tennis, swimming, fitness, and squash. Ugam-Chatkal National Park, a protected reserve, harbors rich wildlife and spectacular waterfalls accessible by 4x4 or horseback.

Cultural scene and events

Tashkent concentrates cultural life around Navoi Theatre, a neoclassical opera and ballet venue programming Russian and Uzbek classics. The Museum of Applied Arts, housed in a traditional residence, displays ceramics, embroidery, and antique musical instruments. Tashkent Broadway, a pedestrian avenue, buzzes with street artists, pop-up galleries, and lively cafes. In October 2025, Uzbekistan was recognized as Best Cultural Tourism Destination by the Global Tourism Forum, crowning heritage valorization efforts. Annual festivals like Silk and Spices (May) in Bukhara, celebrating crafts and cuisine, or Sharq Taronalari (August) in Samarkand, gathering traditional Asian music, attract international visitors and expats.

Dining and nightlife

Uzbek cuisine, hearty and flavorful, centers on plov (rice pilaf with lamb and carrots), samsas (meat pastries), laghmans (stir-fried noodles), and traditional bread non baked in tandyr ovens. Chaikhanas (teahouses) serve generous meals in convivial settings. In Tashkent, international restaurants (Italian, Japanese, Korean, French) multiply in Mirzo Ulugbek and Yunusabad districts. Nightlife remains moderate but evolving: the Sky Bar at Wyndham Hotel, Irish Pub, and clubs like Status attract expats and affluent local youth. Alcohol consumption is legal, with local beers (Sarbast, Turon) and Ferghana Valley wines available, though imported European products command premium prices.

Expat community and networking

Tashkent's expat community, though modest, organizes around Facebook groups (Expats in Tashkent, Tashkent Internationals), monthly networking events hosted by embassies and chambers of commerce, and multinational sports clubs. Initiatives like WeProject catalog 8 active communities facilitating professional and social integration. The Expat.com Uzbekistan forum enables practical advice and tips exchange. Families connect through barbecues, school outings, and national holiday celebrations, creating valuable solidarity facing expat challenges.

Uzbekistan delivers exceptional value, with living costs running 60.8% below US levels and significantly under European standards. This affordability grants expats substantial purchasing power even on local salaries. Primary expenses include housing, food, and school fees for families, while everyday services (transport, dining, entertainment) remain highly accessible.

Budget for single person

A single expat living in Tashkent with moderate lifestyle can manage comfortably. The following table details average monthly expenses for a solo profile, enabling budget anticipation and lifestyle assessment.

Sources: Numbeo Tashkent (September 2025)

Budget for family of four

An expat family with two children enrolled in international school must anticipate significantly higher expenses, primarily due to school fees. The following table presents a typical budget including these specific items, offering realistic cost projections for households.

Sources: Numbeo Tashkent (September 2025), BST Tuition Fees

Everyday price breakdown

Daily expenses remain remarkably affordable. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs 65,000 UZS (USD 5.04), while a mid-range dinner for two runs 585,000 UZS (USD 45). A cappuccino costs 26,000 UZS (USD 2.02), local beer 16,000 UZS (USD 1.24), and mid-range wine 97,000 UZS (USD 7.52). Fresh market produce remains very cheap: bread (500g) 3,200 UZS (USD 0.25), milk (1L) 13,000 UZS (USD 1.01), eggs (12) 27,000 UZS (USD 2.09), chicken (1kg) 43,000 UZS (USD 3.33), potatoes (1kg) 6,800 UZS (USD 0.53). Public transport is negligible: metro ticket 1,700 UZS (USD 0.13), intra-city taxi approximately 32,500 UZS (USD 2.52). A monthly fitness membership costs 650,000 UZS (USD 50), cinema ticket 65,000 UZS (USD 5.04). These prices enable comfortable quality of life on controlled budgets.