Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency repatriated 3,709 citizens from 22 foreign countries in 2025 after they encountered severe financial or life difficulties abroad, allocating UZS 15.9bn ($1.3mn) from the Migration Fund to cover all related expenses.
The funds were used to fully finance transportation, medical care, organizational support, and other costs linked to the humanitarian repatriation efforts, according to the agency.
One of the key initiatives was the first-ever “Return to Homeland” charity campaign, held from July 30 to August 30 in connection with the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. During the campaign, around 1,300 Uzbek citizens in distress abroad were brought back to the country.
Medical cases received particular attention. A total of 66 citizens were repatriated following serious illness or accidents, including 45 transported through specialized medical evacuation and 21 returned under the supervision of doctors from Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health.
Earlier reports show that consular and legal assistance to citizens abroad remained active throughout the year. More than 162,000 Uzbek nationals received consular services, while over 4,000 citizens in severe financial hardship were provided financial assistance totaling $746,500. Authorities also facilitated the release of around 2,000 citizens from temporary detention facilities overseas.
In recent years, the number of Uzbek labor migrants heading to European countries has increased fourfold, prompting the government to strengthen protection mechanisms and improve migration services.
On November 18, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was briefed on reforms to the labor migration system, including efforts to align procedures with international standards. Planned measures include introducing a “single window” system for migration services, opening a Center for Preparation for Work Abroad in Tashkent’s Uchtepa district, and establishing a unified migration service center in Termez.
