Which European countries do Uzbeks go to most often to work?

In recent years, labor migration of citizens of Uzbekistan to foreign countries has been increasing significantly. According to a report published by the Central Bank, in 2024, the external mobility of the population increased by 29 percent, and the number of citizens who went abroad reached 6.2 million people. This increase is also explained by the fact that international remittances reached $ 14.9 billion.

Migration to European Union countries

In recent years, the number of Uzbeks leaving for the European Union has been increasing. In particular, in 2023, the number of permits in Europe reached 31.8 thousand, of which 22.4 thousand were issued for other purposes and 9.4 thousand for work.

The countries with the highest migration are:
- Poland - 21 percent of visas issued to the European Union;
- Lithuania - 17 percent;
- Germany - 16 percent;
- Latvia - 7 percent.

The United Kingdom also remains one of the important countries for seasonal labor migration. Seasonal visas issued by this country accounted for about 13 percent of all seasonal visas. In 2023, Britain issued 4,094 visas to citizens of Uzbekistan.

Migration to South Korea

In 2024, the number of Uzbek residents in South Korea reached 89.7 thousand people. This figure decreased after reaching a peak in 2019, and began to grow again in 2021. Migration of Uzbek citizens to Korea is based on labor contracts and is mainly associated with employment in the manufacturing and construction sectors.

Migration to Turkey

Labor migration to Turkey is also increasing. In 2024, the number of residence permits issued to citizens of Uzbekistan amounted to 57.9 thousand. This figure increased compared to 2023, indicating an increase in interest among Uzbeks in this country. At the same time, non-permanent migration decreased slightly. This indicates a tendency to seek long-term employment opportunities.

Migration to Russia and Kazakhstan

Although the migration of Uzbeks to Europe, South Korea and Turkey is increasing, the main migration destinations remain Russia and Kazakhstan. The majority of Uzbek migrants prefer to work in these countries. The main reasons for this are:

- Ease of finding a job;
- Demanding labor market;
- Cultural and linguistic proximity.

Also, the volume of remittances to these countries is high, which is one of the important factors ensuring economic stability.

Labor migration of citizens of Uzbekistan continues to grow in 2024. Although the European Union, South Korea and Turkey have become new important destinations, Russia and Kazakhstan still remain the countries attracting the largest number of labor. With the increase in labor migration, the volume of international remittances is also increasing significantly, which has a positive impact on the economy of Uzbekistan. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”