Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), in cooperation with IT Park, has conducted a comprehensive study aimed at assessing the business environment and adaptation mechanisms for foreign specialists and IT companies that have relocated to Uzbekistan.

The study utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods, including surveys of foreign professionals and international companies, as well as focus groups involving executives of IT Park resident firms.

The objective was to assess the level of integration of foreign specialists, evaluate business conditions, and develop recommendations to further improve state policy in attracting international talent and investment.

Profile of Relocants and General Assessments

According to the CERR survey, the typical relocant is a qualified specialist around 38 years old, married, and often with children. In fact, 66% of respondents indicated they were married, and 40% have children under the age of 16.

Respondents noted Uzbekistan’s stable macroeconomic environment and favorable conditions for IT business, contributing to a high level of trust in the country as a relocation destination.

The majority of companies and specialists expressed intentions to continue operations in Uzbekistan. Specifically, 96% of surveyed IT companies and 82% of specialists plan to stay in the country, while 93% of companies and 81% of specialists would recommend Uzbekistan as an attractive relocation destination.

Growth of the IT Sector and Expansion of Export Geography

The number of foreign resident companies at IT Park has grown to 752 — a 54-fold increase compared to 2020. Overall, the number of registered resident entities has reached 2,846, with the number of export-oriented companies increasing from 62 to 750.

The export geography has expanded from 26 to 90 countries, indicating growing international demand for digital services from Uzbekistan. The largest share of exports goes to North America (46%), the EU and the UK (21%), the CIS and Asia-Pacific (27%), and the Middle East (6%).

Over the past 5–7 years, there has been significant growth in the presence of foreign companies and skilled specialists. Since early 2022, the influx of foreign IT professionals has increased by 87%, while the number of foreign resident companies has grown by 77%.

Tax Incentives and Visa Support

Uzbekistan offers a favorable environment for IT businesses. Residents of IT Park are exempt from corporate income tax and social tax, and personal income tax is reduced to 7.5%. According to 91% of surveyed companies, the existing tax regime poses no obstacles to export activity, reinforcing Uzbekistan’s image as a rising international IT hub.

To attract foreign specialists, special mechanisms have been introduced — the IT Visa and IT Card — which grant multiple-entry rights for up to three years, with the possibility of extension. These statuses allow for free movement within the country, access to healthcare and education on the same terms as Uzbek citizens, and the ability to purchase real estate.

Challenges and Areas for Improvement

Despite the overall positive perception, respondents highlighted several areas requiring improvement. Specifically, 44% of companies and 41% of specialists expressed a need for better accessibility and quality of financial and banking services. Additionally, 35% of specialists reported difficulties in obtaining residency permits for long-term stays.

Although the IT Card has been widely welcomed, its practical use remains limited: 78% of respondents stated they do not currently use it, and 73% pointed to a lack of awareness among public officials, bank employees, and notaries regarding its functions. Expanding its capabilities was also seen as necessary.

Other challenges cited by survey participants included difficulty in renting housing (53%), limited access to medical and educational services (31%), and underdeveloped digital infrastructure (mentioned by 36% of specialists and 21% of companies).

Conclusion

The study confirms the effectiveness of current policies and the high retention rate of foreign IT talent. Uzbekistan is steadily strengthening its position as an attractive destination for international IT relocation in Eurasia, offering favorable living and business conditions.