Summary
The Uzbek social security system is in the process of transforming into a comprehensive, contributions based ‘western style’ social insurance system, with changes being progressively implemented from 2026. The new system will feature mandatory employee coverage and comprehensive benefit entitlement.
Details
Contributions
Employers pay a 12% (25% for state funded enterprises) contribution to the state social security fund, and 0.1% to individual pension schemes. Employees’ contributions to social security, unemployment insurance, the housing loan and employee training regimes total 6%. The transition to a state sponsored social insurance system should reduce the burden on employers to provide benefits privately.
Treaties
Uzbekistan has a very limited range of social security agreements. It is part of the broader Commonwealth of Independent States framework for social security, which stems from older USSR-era treaties; outside of that, it has a bilateral agreement with South Korea.
UK and US expatriates moving to Uzbekistan are likely to be exposed to double social security contributions, at least for part of their assignments.
Exemptions
Social insurance contributions for the self employed are voluntary. Few, if any, exemptions for employees are available.
Administration
From 1 January 2026 the newly established State Social Security Fund is steadily taking over responsibility for the payment of benefits, starting with maternity pay and, from July 2026, sickness benefits. Entitlement to benefits will be determined by the length of time individuals have paid insurance contributions. Contributions are paid monthly via payroll withholding.
Benefits
At present, the Uzbek benefit system is highly fragmented. A three pillar pension regime is in place, but the qualifying and payment criteria for each pillar vary significantly. Maternity benefits are not directly connected to the social insurance system, and unemployment insurance is provided by insurers outside the state system.
Healthcare is not currently part of the Uzbek social security system and is generally provided by employers on a private basis.
Social security insights are intended to provide quick and straightforward insights into social security regimes. Always seek professional advice based on actual circumstances before acting.
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