Uzbekistan Introduces Golden Visa. Can Pakistanis Apply?

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On April 18, 2025, the government of Uzbekistan introduced a transformative addition to its investment migration strategy. Through Presidential Decree PF-67, a new donation-based residency permit is now available for foreign nationals and stateless persons starting June 1, 2025.

This initiative broadens the nation’s already dynamic immigration policy landscape, offering affluent individuals yet another compelling gateway to long-term residency in Central Asia’s fastest-growing investment hub.

Five-Year Residency with $250,000 Donation: Key Highlights

Under the new legislation, applicants can secure a five-year renewable residence permit by making a non-refundable donation of US$250,000 to a government-designated account.

This generous initiative is open to all nationalities without restriction, including citizens of Pakistan, making it globally inclusive and distinct from other routes.

Each dependent family member—whether a spouse, child, or parent—requires an additional US$150,000 donation. This distinguishes the program as premium and targeted towards high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and families seeking security, opportunity, and investment-friendly living conditions.

While the program officially launches on June 1, 2025, full implementation is contingent upon a government resolution from the Cabinet of Ministers and the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

  • The designated account for donation transfers
  • Application procedures and documentation checklists
  • Anti-money laundering (AML) compliance protocols
  • Permit renewal processes after the initial five-year period
  • Whether the permit duration counts toward naturalization eligibility

Uzbekistan’s Three Investment Residency Pathways

1. Donation-Based Residency

  • Minimum investment: US$250,000 donation
  • Dependents: US$150,000 per person
  • Residency term: Five years, renewable
  • Eligibility: All nationalities
  • Naturalization path: Pending confirmation
  • Advantages: Simpler entry, no operational business required

2. Investment Visa Route

Introduced in 2019 and subsequently amended, this route is tailored to individuals who want to invest directly into Uzbekistan’s economic fabric.

  • Three-Year Visa: Requires US$250,000 equity investment in a locally registered company
  • Ten-Year Visa: Reserved for individuals investing US$3 million into production or service enterprises
  • Dependents: Included at no extra cost
  • Eligibility: No nationality restrictions
  • Reinvestment Option: Business expansion can lead to renewal and permanent residency

This program suits entrepreneurs and investors aiming to establish long-term economic roots in Uzbekistan.

3. Real Estate Investment Route

Perfect for real estate investors, this route provides permanent residency based on property purchases in specific regions:

  • Tashkent Region: US$300,000 minimum property investment
  • Samarkand, Bukhara, Fergana: US$200,000
  • Other Regions/Karakalpakstan: US$100,000
  • Dependents: Included at no extra cost
  • Eligibility: Restricted to citizens of approximately 85 approved countries

This is the most cost-effective option for families, especially those not seeking business commitments.

Cost Implications for Families

A critical factor for prospective applicants is the cost of including family members. Under the new donation-based route:

  • Single applicant: US$250,000
  • Family of four (e.g., couple with two children): US$700,000 total

Compared to other options where dependents are included at no extra cost, this makes the donation route significantly more expensive for families, although it offers a non-operational path with minimal engagement in the local economy.

Although current legislation does not clarify whether the five-year residency term under PF-67 will count toward naturalization, expectations are high.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs is Uzbekistan set to address this in its operational resolution. If confirmed, the program could be a stepping-stone to Uzbek citizenship, increasing its appeal to global investors seeking long-term stability in Central Asia.

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