The key facts
- Over 9 months of 2026, $850,000 in wages and compensation was recovered for 817 citizens
- Most appeals came from Russia — 533, Turkey — 155, Korea — 92
- Documents of 532 citizens were returned; about 1.4 million Uzbeks work abroad in total
Recoveries based on migrant appeals
Uzbekistan's Migration Agency reported that, following appeals from citizens working abroad, a total of $850,000 in unpaid wages and compensation was recovered in their favor over the first nine months of 2026. The agency reviewed appeals from 817 citizens concerning the recovery of monthly wages and compensation, as well as resolving problems related to the return of identity documents.
Breakdown by country
The largest number of appeals came from Russia — 533. In Turkey, 155 cases were reviewed, in Korea — 92, in other countries — 37. As for documents: during the reporting period, identity documents of 532 Uzbekistan citizens were returned from intermediaries and foreign employers, including 331 in Russia, 185 in Turkey, 11 in Kazakhstan, and five citizens in Korea.
Where to seek help
The Agency urged citizens who find themselves in difficult situations while working abroad to seek help: via the short number 1282 or through the Telegram bot @huquqiy_yordam_uzbot. Appeals are accepted around the clock.
How many citizens work abroad
According to Migration Agency data cited in the Central Bank's August review, about 1.4 million citizens of Uzbekistan work in roughly 40 countries. The largest number are in Russia: 834.2 thousand people (about 60% of the total). In Kazakhstan, 84.4 thousand work, in Turkey — 72.1 thousand, in South Korea — 46.4 thousand, in European countries — 258 thousand, and in other countries — 97.7 thousand Uzbekistan citizens.
