Uzbekistan to Require HIV Tests for Returning Migrants and Foreign Workers
Uzbekistan’s lower house of parliament approved a bill requiring HIV testing for citizens returning from abroad and for incoming foreign workers. The law passed its third reading and now awaits Senate review.
Who Will Be Tested
The rule targets Uzbek citizens aged 18 to 60 who have spent more than 90 days overseas. Foreign nationals and stateless persons residing in Uzbekistan must also take the test. It applies to all foreigners entering the country for work.
Who Will Pay for HIV Testing
Testing for Uzbek nationals will be free and funded by the state. Foreign citizens must cover the costs themselves or through their employer.
Why Now
Only 25% of 1.7 mln citizens returning in 2024 took HIV tests voluntarily. Among them, 1.5 thousand were diagnosed with HIV. Lawmakers say mandatory testing will help prevent the spread of infections and strengthen public health.
The move supports Uzbekistan’s national HIV strategy. The programme, approved in 2023, aligns with the UN’s 95–95–95 goals. This programme is backed by UZS 120 bn and $54 mln in funding.
If approved by the Senate, the law will form part of wider reforms to monitor and manage infectious disease risks, especially among labour migrants and high-risk groups.
Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Uzbekistan could lose up to $5 bn annually by 2050 due to the growing impact of climate change.
