Mirziyoyev Enacts Legislation Targeting Undesirable Foreign Nationals

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has signed a law establishing a mechanism for declaring foreign citizens and stateless persons as undesirable in Uzbekistan. This document was published on the Lex.uz portal.

Foreigners who promote interethnic, social, or interstate hostility will be classified as undesirable. The inclusion of individuals on this list is based on submissions from the Kengashes of the Zakpata and the Senate of the Oliy Majlis, along with other specially authorised authorities.

Individuals identified as undesirable will not be permitted to open bank accounts in Uzbekistan or participate in the privatisation of state assets. A foreigner or stateless person’s status on this list is five years, although this term can be extended or shortened.

Undesirable foreigners residing in Uzbekistan must leave the country within ten days. Failure to comply will result in deportation.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that former MP Rasul Kusherbayev suggested that Maria Zakharova, a representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, be added to the list of undesirable foreigners.