Uzbekistan emerges as a key destination for IT specialists and foreign companies
The Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), in collaboration with IT Park Uzbekistan, has conducted an extensive study to assess the experiences of foreign IT companies and professionals who have relocated to Uzbekistan. The findings show that the country’s business environment is becoming increasingly favorable, while Uzbekistan itself is emerging as a prominent destination for relocation.
Who are the IT relocants in Uzbekistan?
The typical foreign specialist relocating to Uzbekistan is an experienced professional, approximately 38 years old. A majority are married (as indicated by 66% of respondents), and 40% have moved with children under the age of 16.
Significantly, 96% of companies and 82% of individual specialists surveyed expressed their intention to continue operations in Uzbekistan. Furthermore, 93% of companies and 81% of professionals indicated that they would recommend the country as a favorable destination for relocation and employment in the IT sector.
How many companies operate and where do they export?
Since 2020, the number of foreign companies registered in IT Park has increased 54-fold, reaching 752. The total number of IT Park members rose from 411 to 2,846, while the number of companies exporting IT services surged from 62 to 750.
Uzbek IT companies, which provided services to 26 countries in 2020, now export to 90 destinations — a 3.5-fold increase. Key export markets include:
- North America — 46% of total export volume
- EU and the United Kingdom — 21%
- CIS and Asia-Pacific region — 27%
- Middle East — 6%
In recent years, Uzbekistan has established itself as an emerging hub for international IT companies and professionals. Since 2022, the number of foreign IT Park member companies has grown by 77%, and the inflow of foreign professionals has increased by 87%. These figures clearly signal that Uzbekistan is increasingly being chosen not just temporarily, but seriously and for the long term.
Benefits for IT companies and professionals
Uzbekistan offers unparalleled conditions for IT businesses:
- 0% corporate income tax
- 0% VAT
- 0% property tax
- 0% customs duties
- 7.5% personal income tax
These incentives are not temporary — they are guaranteed until 2040, providing businesses with the stable framework for long-term planning and sustainable growth.
These benefits have been well-received: 91% of foreign companies report that the tax burden poses no barriers to their operations.
Foreign specialists also benefit from the IT Visa and IT Card programs, which allow multiple entries into Uzbekistan for up to three years, with the option to extend the validity without leaving the country. These privileges are available to individuals with an annual income of at least $30,000 and provide:
- Access to healthcare and education on par with citizens
- Freedom of movement within the country
- Unrestricted rights to purchase real estate
What needs improvement?
Survey participants also identified areas for enhancement:
- 44% of companies and 41% of professionals called for improved banking and financial services
- 35% of professionals recommended simplifying the residence permit process
- 78% of respondents noted they do not currently use the IT Card, and 73% believe that government bodies, banks, and notaries lack sufficient awareness of the program
- 53% indicated a need to improve the housing rental market
- 31% requested easier access to healthcare and education
- 36% of professionals and 21% of companies emphasized the importance of enhancing digital infrastructure
Conclusion
The study underscores a clear trend: IT specialists and companies are not only relocating to Uzbekistan, but are choosing to stay. With a growing number of member companies, expanding export geography, and a stable and attractive business environment, Uzbekistan is moving in the right direction and is well-positioned to emerge as a leading IT hub in the Eurasian region.