U.S. Rejects Nearly 65% of Visa Applications from Uzbek Citizens in 2024

Key Takeaways

• In 2024, Uzbekistan’s B-1/B-2 visa refusal rate reached 64.41%, highest in Central Asia.
• High refusal rates stem from strict U.S. policies, limited trade, and concerns about immigrant intent.
• Uzbekistan plans talks with the U.S. in 2025 to ease visa restrictions and improve relations.

In 2024, the United States 🇺🇸 rejected nearly 65% of visa applications from citizens of Uzbekistan, marking the highest refusal rate among Central Asian countries. This sharp increase has drawn attention from travelers, business leaders, and policymakers in both countries. The U.S. State Department’s latest data shows a refusal rate of 64.41% for B-1/B-2 tourist and business visa applications from Uzbek citizens, up from 59.56% in 2023. This news has sparked concern and debate about the reasons behind such high rejection rates, the impact on people’s lives, and what the future might hold for U.S.-Uzbekistan relations.

What’s Happening: The High Refusal Rate for Uzbek Visa Applications

The U.S. State Department, which manages visa applications and issues annual statistics, reported that Uzbekistan’s 2024 B-1/B-2 visa refusal rate is the highest in Central Asia. This means that almost two out of every three Uzbek applicants hoping to visit the United States 🇺🇸 for business or tourism were denied a visa this year. For comparison, refusal rates in neighboring countries are lower: Turkmenistan (58.8%), Kazakhstan (46.29%), Tajikistan (45.24%), and Kyrgyzstan (39.14%). In countries outside the region, the rates are much lower still—France (8.5%), Germany (10.02%), Japan (5.76%), and the United Arab Emirates (1.46%).

This trend is not new, but the increase in 2024 is notable. The U.S. has long applied strict scrutiny to visa applications from certain countries, especially those with limited economic ties or concerns about applicants overstaying their visas. Uzbekistan’s trade with the United States 🇺🇸 remains small, with exports totaling just $42.4 million in 2024 out of a total foreign trade turnover of $66 billion. This limited economic relationship may play a role in the tough visa policies.

Why Are So Many Uzbek Visa Applications Being Rejected?

Several factors contribute to the high refusal rate for Uzbek citizens:

• Strict U.S. Immigration Policy: The U.S. government closely examines visa applications from countries where there is a higher risk of people overstaying their visas or not returning home. This is known as “immigrant intent”—the suspicion that someone applying for a short-term visa might actually want to stay in the United States 🇺🇸 permanently.
• Limited Economic Ties: Countries with strong business and economic connections to the United States 🇺🇸 often see lower visa refusal rates. Uzbekistan’s small trade volume with the U.S. means there are fewer established reasons for travel, which can make it harder for applicants to prove they will return home.
• Security and Vetting: The U.S. State Department uses security checks and background vetting to screen applicants. If there are concerns about an applicant’s background or the risk of illegal immigration, the chances of refusal go up.
• Supporting Documents: Many Uzbek applicants may have trouble providing the kind of strong evidence the U.S. wants to see—such as proof of employment, property ownership, or family ties that show they plan to return to Uzbekistan.

How the Visa Application Process Works for Uzbeks

Applying for a U.S. B-1/B-2 visa (for business or tourism) is a multi-step process. Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. Complete the DS-160 Online Visa Application Form: This is the main form for nonimmigrant visas. Applicants must fill it out online and answer questions about their background, travel plans, and personal information. You can find the official DS-160 form here.
2. Pay the Non-Refundable Visa Application Fee: This fee must be paid before scheduling an interview. It is not returned, even if the visa is denied.
3. Schedule a Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent: Applicants must book an appointment for an in-person interview with a consular officer.
4. Prepare Supporting Documents: These include a valid passport, a photo, proof of financial means, evidence of employment or studies, property documents, and any other paperwork showing strong ties to Uzbekistan.
5. Attend the Visa Interview: During the interview, the consular officer will ask questions to determine if the applicant qualifies for the visa and truly plans to return home after their trip.
6. Receive Visa Approval or Refusal: If approved, the applicant gets the visa and can prepare for travel. If refused, the applicant is usually told the reason, most often under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which means they did not convince the officer they would return to Uzbekistan.

The Impact on Uzbek Travelers and Businesses

The high refusal rate has real consequences for people in Uzbekistan:

• Travel for Tourism and Family Visits: Many families are separated by borders, and a visa refusal can mean missing important events or being unable to visit loved ones in the United States 🇺🇸.
• Business and Trade: Uzbek businesspeople hoping to attend meetings, sign contracts, or explore partnerships in the United States 🇺🇸 face major hurdles. This can slow down economic growth and limit opportunities for both countries.
• Education and Cultural Exchange: Students and professionals who want to attend conferences, study, or take part in cultural programs may be discouraged from applying, knowing the odds are against them.
• Discouragement and Financial Loss: The cost of applying for a visa, gathering documents, and traveling to the embassy adds up. When applications are denied, people lose both time and money.

What Are the Main Reasons for Visa Refusals?

Most Uzbek applicants who are denied a visa are refused under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This law says that every applicant for a nonimmigrant visa is presumed to be an immigrant unless they can prove otherwise. In simple terms, the U.S. officer must be convinced that the person will return to Uzbekistan after their visit.

Common reasons for refusal include:

• Weak Ties to Uzbekistan: If an applicant cannot show strong family, job, or property connections at home, the officer may think they plan to stay in the United States 🇺🇸.
• Unclear Purpose of Visit: If the reason for travel is vague or not well explained, this can raise doubts.
• Insufficient Financial Proof: Applicants must show they have enough money to pay for their trip and will not become a burden in the United States 🇺🇸.
• Previous Immigration Violations: If someone has overstayed a visa or broken immigration rules before, their chances of approval drop sharply.

What Is the Uzbek Government Doing About It?

In May 2025, Uzbekistan announced plans to start talks with the United States 🇺🇸 to make it easier for Uzbek citizens to get visas. This move, backed by a presidential decree, shows that the Uzbek government is serious about improving travel and business ties with the United States 🇺🇸. The talks aim to relax visa requirements, possibly leading to:

• Streamlined Application Processes: Making it simpler and faster to apply for a visa.
• Visa Waiver Programs: Allowing certain travelers to visit without a visa, as is the case for some countries with strong U.S. ties.
• Longer-Term or Multiple-Entry Visas: Giving approved travelers more flexibility and reducing the need to reapply each time.

How Does Uzbekistan Compare to Other Countries?

Looking at the numbers, Uzbekistan’s refusal rate stands out not just in Central Asia, but globally. Here’s a quick comparison:

These figures show that Uzbek applicants face much tougher odds than those from many other countries. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, such high refusal rates can discourage travel, limit business growth, and even affect how people in Uzbekistan view the United States 🇺🇸.

Expert Opinions: Why Are Refusal Rates So High?

Immigration experts and analysts point to several reasons:

• Immigration Intent: The U.S. is cautious about issuing visas to people from countries where there is a higher risk of overstaying. Proving strong reasons to return home is key.
• Economic Factors: Countries with more trade and business links to the United States 🇺🇸 often see lower refusal rates, as there are more legitimate reasons for travel.
• Security Concerns: The U.S. government uses background checks and security vetting, which can be stricter for some countries.
• Policy Priorities: The U.S. sets its visa policies based on a mix of security, economic, and diplomatic goals.

What Can Uzbek Applicants Do to Improve Their Chances?

While the overall refusal rate is high, there are steps applicants can take to strengthen their cases:

• Prepare Strong Supporting Documents: Show proof of employment, property, family ties, and financial stability in Uzbekistan.
• Be Clear About the Purpose of Travel: Explain in detail why you want to visit the United States 🇺🇸 and how long you plan to stay.
• Practice for the Interview: Be ready to answer questions about your plans and ties to Uzbekistan.
• Avoid Misrepresentation: Never provide false information or fake documents. This can lead to a permanent ban.

For more information on the visa process and requirements, applicants can visit the U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan’s official website.

The Bigger Picture: Policy and Diplomatic Implications

The high refusal rate affects more than just individual travelers. It has broader effects on:

• Bilateral Relations: Difficult visa policies can slow down business, education, and cultural exchanges between the United States 🇺🇸 and Uzbekistan.
• Economic Growth: When businesspeople cannot travel easily, it limits trade and investment opportunities.
• Public Perception: High refusal rates can lead to frustration and negative views of the United States 🇺🇸 among Uzbek citizens.

Uzbekistan’s move to start talks with the United States 🇺🇸 in May 2025 is a sign that both countries recognize these challenges and want to find solutions.

Historical Context: Why Has This Been a Longstanding Issue?

Uzbekistan has faced high U.S. visa refusal rates for many years. The U.S. approach to Central Asia has been careful, balancing security concerns with the desire to build stronger ties. In recent years, Uzbekistan has made economic and political reforms, increasing interest in travel and business with the United States 🇺🇸. However, visa barriers remain high, partly due to the factors mentioned earlier.

Some countries with stronger economic ties or lower risks of overstaying have seen the U.S. grant visa waivers or relax restrictions. Uzbekistan hopes that ongoing reforms and improved relations will eventually lead to similar treatment.

What’s Next? The Outlook for U.S.-Uzbekistan Visa Policy

The talks announced in May 2025 could bring important changes:

• Lower Refusal Rates: If the two countries agree on new procedures, more Uzbek applicants could be approved.
• Easier Application Process: Streamlined steps and clearer guidelines would help applicants avoid common mistakes.
• Possible Visa Waiver or Multiple-Entry Visas: These options would make travel easier for frequent visitors.
• Continued Monitoring: The U.S. State Department will keep publishing annual statistics, allowing both governments and the public to track progress.

Practical Guidance for Uzbek Applicants

If you’re planning to apply for a U.S. B-1/B-2 visa, here are some practical tips:

• Start Early: The process can take time, especially if you need to gather documents or schedule an interview.
• Be Honest and Thorough: Fill out the DS-160 form carefully and provide all required information.
• Show Strong Ties to Uzbekistan: Bring documents that prove you have reasons to return home.
• Prepare for the Interview: Practice answering questions about your travel plans and background.
• Check Official Resources: Always use official government websites for the latest information on forms, fees, and requirements.

Where to Find More Information

• U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan (Tashkent): Official visa information and appointment scheduling
• U.S. State Department Visa Statistics: Annual visa issuance and refusal data
• Uzbek Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Updates on diplomatic talks and policy changes

Conclusion: Hope for Change Amid Ongoing Challenges

The nearly 65% refusal rate for U.S. visa applications from Uzbekistan in 2024 highlights ongoing challenges for travelers, businesses, and policymakers. While the reasons are complex—ranging from strict U.S. immigration policies to limited economic ties—there is hope that ongoing talks and reforms will lead to better access in the future. For now, Uzbek applicants must prepare carefully and stay informed about the latest requirements. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the situation remains dynamic, and both governments are working toward solutions that could benefit travelers and strengthen ties between the United States 🇺🇸 and Uzbekistan.

Learn Today

B-1/B-2 Visa → A nonimmigrant visa for business (B-1) and tourism (B-2) visits to the United States.
Refusal Rate → The percentage of visa applications rejected by the U.S. government within a specific category.
Immigrant Intent → The suspicion that a visa applicant may try to stay permanently instead of returning home.
Section 214(b) → U.S. law presuming all nonimmigrant visa applicants intend to immigrate unless proven otherwise.
DS-160 Form → An online application form required for most nonimmigrant U.S. visa applicants.

This Article in a Nutshell

Uzbekistan faces a record 64.41% U.S. visa refusal rate in 2024, due to strict policies and low trade ties. This impacts travel, business, and education. Upcoming talks in 2025 aim to ease visa barriers, potentially helping more Uzbek applicants visit the U.S. with less difficulty and stronger opportunities.
— By VisaVerge.com