Moving to Uzbekistan
Last updated on Oct 14, 2023
Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to Uzbekistan for its rich culture, vibrant cities, and low cost of living. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Uzbekistan are Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. People looking for a place to live in Uzbekistan can search online for rental listings, contact real estate agents, or look for postings on expat forums.
What do I need to know before moving to Uzbekistan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Uzbekistan, they said:
"Uzbekistan is a culturally rich country with a long and fascinating history. It is important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette before moving to Uzbekistan. It is also important to research the local language, as most Uzbeks speak Uzbek, Russian, or both. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, as well as the visa requirements for expats. It is also important to research the cost of living in Uzbekistan, as well as the availability of housing and other amenities. Finally, it is important to be aware of the climate in Uzbekistan, as it can be quite extreme in some areas," said one expat who made the move to Uzbekistan.
How do I find a place to live in Uzbekistan?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One way to find a place to live in Uzbekistan is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Expat.com, Nestpick, and Spotahome offer a variety of rental options in Uzbekistan. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on local classifieds websites such as UzRealty and UzRent. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Uzbekistan. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Uzbekistan for recommendations," remarked one expat who made the move to Uzbekistan.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Uzbekistan?
"Expat homes and apartments in Uzbekistan tend to be modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, internet access, and modern appliances. Many expats choose to live in larger cities such as Tashkent, where there is a wide range of housing options available, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Expats can also find furnished apartments, which can be a great option for those who are just starting out in the country," remarked one expat in Uzbekistan.
What is the average cost of housing in Uzbekistan?
If you are thinking about moving to Uzbekistan, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Uzbekistan varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. Generally, renting an apartment in a city center can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 per month, while renting a house in a rural area can cost around $100 to $200 per month. Prices for buying property in Uzbekistan can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per square meter," remarked one expat who made the move to Uzbekistan.
Should I buy or rent a home in Uzbekistan?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Uzbekistan, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Uzbekistan can be a great investment, as the country is experiencing a period of economic growth and development. The cost of living in Uzbekistan is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to purchase a home. Additionally, the country offers a wide range of housing options, from traditional homes to modern apartments. Renting a home in Uzbekistan can also be a good option, as it allows you to experience the country without the commitment of buying a home. Renting can also be a great way to explore different neighborhoods and find the perfect place to live. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Uzbekistan depends on your individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Uzbekistan.
What should I pack when moving to Uzbekistan?
We asked people living in Uzbekistan to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Uzbekistan, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best for the hot summers, while warm layers are essential for the cold winters. It is also important to bring any necessary medications, as well as any documents or paperwork needed for the move. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items from home to make the transition easier, such as photos, books, or other sentimental items. Finally, it is important to bring a valid passport and any other necessary travel documents," said one expat who made the move to Uzbekistan.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Uzbekistan?
We asked people in Uzbekistan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"In Uzbekistan, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is considered impolite to show public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, as this is not part of the local culture. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local religious customs, and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local language, and to avoid speaking English or any other foreign language in public," said one expat in Uzbekistan.
Why do people move to Uzbekistan?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Uzbekistan, they responded:
"Uzbekistan offers expats a unique cultural experience, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. The country is also known for its friendly people, low cost of living, and excellent job opportunities. Additionally, Uzbekistan is a safe and secure place to live, with a low crime rate and a strong economy. With its diverse range of attractions, from ancient cities to modern cities, Uzbekistan is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," offered one expat living in Uzbekistan.
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How are healthcare services Uzbekistan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Uzbekistan, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Uzbekistan are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens of Uzbekistan. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a focus on preventive care and primary care services. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Uzbekistan can use the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay for some services. In addition, many expats opt to use private healthcare services, which are often more expensive but offer a higher quality of care," wrote one expat living in Uzbekistan.
What are medical services in Uzbekistan like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Uzbekistan, they replied:
"Uzbekistan has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that provide primary, secondary, and tertiary care. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are also private medical facilities available. The quality of care is generally good, and the country has a high rate of immunization coverage. Specialized medical services such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology are available in the larger cities," wrote one expat living in Uzbekistan.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Uzbekistan?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Uzbekistan?
- Will I be able to find a job in Uzbekistan?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Uzbekistan appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Uzbekistan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Uzbekistan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Uzbekistan like?
- How are healthcare services in Uzbekistan?
- What are medical services in Uzbekistan like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Uzbekistan?
- What are emergency services like in Uzbekistan?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Uzbekistan?
- How are local medical facilities in Uzbekistan?
- As a foreigner living in Uzbekistan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?