The External Labor Migration Agency has reported about the main problems and obstacles Uzbek labor migrants are facing in Russia and Kazakhstan.

The first problem is the high cost of obtaining a patent and the complexity of the procedures. More than 30% of Uzbek citizens working in Russia have no official work permit (patent).

Currently, if Uzbek citizens apply for a work permit in Russia, they will be issued a patent for only one year. This will require direct and indirect spending of approximately $500.

“In addition, taking into account the mandatory payments of about $50-125 per month and other expenses, a person has to spend $1,700 a year,” the statement said.

In Kazakhstan, the cost of obtaining a work permit is $200-1,000 per year. Usually, the employer pays that amount and then withholds it from the migrant worker’s salary later.

The second problem is the existence of occupational restrictions. Uzbek migrants are banned from working in pharmacies, non-permanent retail outlets and markets.

Uzbek migrants may work in specialized shops selling alcohol and tobacco, but their number should not exceed 15% of the organization’s total workforce.

In agriculture, the limit is 50%, and in construction – 80%.

The third problem is that Uzbek migrants are transferred to the category of taxpayers six months after arriving in one of the EAEU countries. For example, in Russia, they pay 30% tax on personal income.

“These and other issues necessitate a detailed study and extensive analysis of the existing opportunities to create adequate conditions for Uzbek migrants working abroad,” the External Labor Migration Agency said.