COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the areas bordering Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan (including the city of Andijan and the eastern region of the Ferghana Valley) due to the uncertain security situation and landmines (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Uzbekistan due to the threat from terrorism and violent crime (level 2 of 4).

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Uzbekistan

Border Areas
The security situation in the areas bordering Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan is unstable. There have been occasional incidents of armed conflict involving gunfire. Landmines are also found in the border region with Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Land border crossings are often closed at short notice.

Terrorism
Terror attacks have occurred in the past in Uzbekistan and could happen anywhere. New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious in public places, including commercial areas and places frequented by foreigners. Monitor the media for information about threats to safety and security, and follow any advice and instructions issued by the local authorities.

Crime
Crime targeting foreigners has been reported in Uzbekistan. There have also been reports of travellers being robbed by individuals posing as police officers. If approached, ask for identification or ask to go to the nearest police station.

New Zealanders in Uzbekistan should avoid walking alone and be especially cautious after dark in urban centres and on public transport, including intercity trains. It is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable such as mobile devices and jewellery or carrying large sums of cash.

We encourage the use of clearly marked taxis as travellers have been robbed using unofficial taxis.

Civil Unrest
There is the potential for civil unrest throughout Uzbekistan but particularly in Andijan, Karakalpakstan and the eastern region of the Ferghana Valley. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies in Uzbekistan as they have the potential to turn violent.

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Uzbekistan to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

Photography of government offices, airports, military or security establishments, public transport infrastructure is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

It is a legal requirement to carry a form of identification with you at all times, as local police often carry out checks. Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa at all times.

Uzbekistan has strict rules relating to the importation of prescription medication.  Foreign nationals have been detained on arrival for possession of medicines that would not normally be problematic in other countries, including sleeping pills and codeine, or for failing to declare prescription medication on their customs declaration form. New Zealanders therefore are advised to check with the nearest Uzbek Embassy regarding the list of banned and restricted medications before travelling to Uzbekistan and to carry a doctor’s prescription for all medication on their person even if the medicine does not appear on the banned list.

Uzbekistan has strict rules regarding registration. For each night you stay in Uzbekistan, you should ask your accommodation to provide you with a ‘registration slip’ (normally a small piece of paper). Carry these with you throughout your stay, as police can ask to see them at any times. It is not uncommon to be asked to present all your registration slips at the border when you depart Uzbekistan, especially if you depart by land. Failure to produce the registration slips can result in delays, and/or difficulty in leaving the country.

Dual nationality is not recognised in Uzbekistan. This may limit our ability to provide consular assistance to New Zealand/Uzbek dual nationals.

New Zealanders in Uzbekistan should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. There can be shortages of basic medical supplies, particularly in more rural parts of Uzbekistan.

New Zealanders in Uzbekistan are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

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The New Zealand Embassy Moscow, Russian Federation is accredited to Uzbekistan

Street Address 44 Povarskaya Ulitsa , Moscow 121069, Russian Federation Telephone +7 495 956 3579 Alternate Telephone +7 495 956 3580 Fax +7 495 956 3583 Email nzembmoscow@mft.net.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/russia Hours Mon - Fri 0900 - 1230, 1330 - 1730 hrs

See our regional advice for Central Asia