Uzbekistan Negotiates Extension of Temporary Stay for Its Drivers in Russia

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan is negotiating the extension of the permitted temporary stay for its drivers in Russia.

This was announced on 17 January by Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Botirjon Asadov, during an open dialogue between ambassadors and business representatives.

At the meeting, a representative of Lazar Natural Fruits Export from the Sokh district of Ferghana Region, which specializes in exporting products to Russia, requested an increase in the stay period for Uzbek drivers from the current 90 days to 180 days. He noted that the existing limit is quickly exhausted, creating entry restrictions and complicating logistics for cargo transportation.

Ambassador Asadov emphasized that Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister, Jamshid Khodjaev, has already raised this issue with Russian authorities.

“At present, the Russian government has instructed the Ministry of Internal Affairs to make the necessary changes to return the stay period to 180 days. Legislative adjustments are still underway, but we hope the changes will come into effect soon. The old rules will apply only to current drivers, while new requirements will include verification of professional status,” the diplomat said.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bobur Usmanov noted that Russian authorities have been instructed not to apply restrictive measures to drivers until the amendments are finalized. Currently, Uzbek drivers do not face obstacles on Russian territory.

The entrepreneur explained that exceeding the established stay limit could result in a ban on entry to Russia or deportation; however, as of early 2026, the stay period for drivers was reset, preventing such issues. Ambassador Asadov expressed hope that the necessary legislative amendments will be adopted before the current limit expires for drivers.

Since 2025, the temporary stay of foreign citizens in Russia under the visa-free regime has been limited to 90 days in total within a calendar year. Previously, foreigners could stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Last year, the Russian Migration Agency reminded Uzbek citizens of the “90/365” rule, warning that violations could result in a ban on entry for three to ten years.