The Uzbekistan customs authorities strictly control the importation of pharmaceuticals for personal use while in or transiting through the territory of Uzbekistan. Customs authorities routinely analyze the length of stay of all visitors and ensure that the amount of prescription pharmaceuticals do not exceed a quantity which they consider within lawful guidelines.
I typically take prescription medicine. What should I do to prepare for my visit to Uzbekistan?
If you typically take a controlled narcotic or a psychotropic substance as a prescription you must declare your medicine on the customs form and also be prepared to present the actual medicine when you present your documents and luggage to the customs agent at the border crossing point.
How much am I allowed to bring in Uzbekistan?
The amount allowed for a single entry into Uzbekistan by individuals for their own use is calculated according to the course of treatment with a particular prescription. The rules state that customs agents consider the amount of narcotic drugs should not exceed a seven-day dosage, and psychotropic substances should not exceed a fifteen-day dosage.
Is the customs declaration form enough to comply with this legislation?
According to the law, you should also present a letter from your physician which declares your diagnosis, the name(s) of the prescription(s), dosage, and how long you will be expected to take the narcotic and/or psychotropic medicine. You will also need to present a copy of the actual prescription/script for each medicine.
Which medicines are on the list of restrictions?
The Customs Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan posted guidance on the import of medicines into Uzbekistan on its website. This resource on the Custom’s Committee’s website refers to this Uzbek legislation regarding import of psychotropic and narcotic containing medicines (in Russian).
Over-the-counter medicine, vitamins, and contact lenses are on this list. Does this mean that I will need to declare these items too?
Not necessarily. Note that there are limited quantities of each item. This is done ostensibly to prevent people from unlawfully trafficking medicines, precursors, and other medical equipment.
I routinely take a psychotropic medicine. What are the penalties if I don’t declare my prescription?
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the financial penalties vary, but may be anywhere from $500-$1,000. Other sanctions may apply, such as house detention, blood testing, and confiscation and destruction of the prescription medicine. English is commonly not spoken by the authorities. Additional inconveniences may occur, such as the disruption of a planned tour/excursion, a connecting flight, and uncertain availability of international telephone service and internet connection.
If I am detained because of a violation of this law, can the U.S. Embassy help me? Who would I call?
Authorities should give you an opportunity to contact the U.S. Embassy if you wish. The embassy’s telephone number for both general inquiries and U.S. citizen emergencies is (+998) 78-120-54-50. Our ability to assist may be limited, as you would be subject to the laws and regulations of Uzbekistan. Additionally, we strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Uzbekistan enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at https://step.state.gov/step. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.
