Uzbekistan Police & Registration Guide: Traveling Stress-Free
Uzbekistan is known for its warm hospitality and safety. To ensure your trip is completely smooth, it's important to understand two local rules: the Tourism Police and the Registration system. Here is a practical guide to handling both with ease.
1. Meeting the Police
In major cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, you will see officers in green or blue uniforms. These are often part of the Tourism Police department.
Are they helpful?
Yes! The Tourism Police are specifically trained to assist travelers. Many speak English and are there to:
- •Give directions to monuments
- •Help in case of lost items
- •Provide general safety assistance
If You Are Stopped
While rare, an officer may occasionally ask to see your passport. This is a standard procedure.
- •What to do: Stay polite, smile, and show your passport (or a high-quality photo of your passport on your phone).
- •Pro Tip: Always carry a photocopy of your passport so you can keep the original safe in your hotel.
2. The Registration Rule (The "Pink Slips")
This is the most important legal rule in Uzbekistan. Every foreign tourist must be "registered" at the place they stay overnight.
How it Works
- •Hotels/Guesthouses: The hotel will handle this for you automatically. When you check out, they will give you a small piece of paper (often called a registration slip).
- •Keep These Slips: Do not throw them away! You must keep all your slips until you leave the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a slip for every night? | Yes, you should have a continuous record of where you stayed. |
| What about night trains? | Your train ticket counts as registration for that night. |
| Where do I show them? | Usually, only at the airport/border when you are leaving Uzbekistan. |
| What if I stay in an Airbnb? | Ensure the host is licensed to register foreigners. Ask before booking. |
3. Staying in Private Homes
If you stay with a friend or in a private home for more than 3 days, you must register through the E-Mehmon system. Hotels handle this easily, but private hosts must do it online.
Safety & Peace of Mind
Uzbekistan's authorities are committed to making the country one of the safest destinations in the world for international visitors. By following these simple rules, you contribute to a well-organized and safe environment for everyone.
Key Takeaways for a Smooth Trip:
- •✅ Keep your registration slips organized in your passport cover.
- •✅ Be polite to officers; they are there to help you.
- •✅ Download the 'Yandex Go' app to avoid any taxi pricing confusion.
- •✅ Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergency assistance (English support available).
Have more questions about local rules? TourFixer is here to help you navigate every step of your journey.
