Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Fraudulent employment schemes abroad prevented in UzbekistanIn recent years, an increasing number of Uzbek citizens have been seeking employment in economically developed countries such as South Korea, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Türkiye, where they have the opportunity to earn higher wages.

To enhance this process and reform the labor migration system, the Migration Agency was established under the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan on 17 October 2024. As a state organization, it is responsible for developing and implementing a unified migration policy, ensuring safe and legal employment abroad, protecting the rights and interests of Uzbek workers, and providing legal, social, and financial support.

Currently, the Migration Agency and 18 licensed private employment agencies assist citizens in securing jobs abroad. However, the number of fraudulent "businessmen" exploiting people’s trust by falsely promising quick and easy employment opportunities is on the rise.

According to Uzbekistan’s State Security Service (SSS), a resident of Andijan, born in 1990, advertised employment opportunities in Japan on social media, gaining the trust of many people. He was arrested by the SSS and the Department under the General Prosecutor’s Office after accepting US$7,400 from a Tashkent resident for a fake job placement. A criminal case has been initiated under Article 168, Part 2, Clause “a” of the Criminal Code.

In another case, a resident of Altinkul district in Andijan region, born in 1995, colluded with an acquaintance from Tashkent, also born in 1995, to defraud a Tashkent resident by promising employment in Japan through "connections" with officials. They demanded US$2,500 for their services. As a result of law enforcement operations, the Tashkent resident was caught red-handed receiving the payment. Both individuals are now facing criminal charges under the same article.

The SSS has urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid trusting employment offers from unlicensed individuals and entities. Only the Migration Agency and 18 officially registered private employment agencies are authorized to assist with legal overseas employment.

Those seeking legitimate work abroad can find information on the electronic platform xorijdaish.uz or contact the Migration Agency at 1282 or 71-200-00-61. Free consultations are also available at the agency’s regional offices.

Additionally, Uzbek citizens facing difficulties abroad can call the short number 1282 free of charge from 17 countries using international dialing codes.