When I first arrived in Uzbekistan, I had no idea about the phone IMEI registration requirements that would affect my daily life.
After experiencing the frustration of potentially losing my cellular connection, I learned the hard way that phone IMEI registration Uzbekistan is not optional—it’s mandatory for anyone staying longer than a month.
What I Wish I’d Known About IMEI Registration in Uzbekistan
In my experience, the Uzbekistan IMEI registration process became more complex in late 2024 due to new customs integration requirements.
I discovered that the UZIMEI system now cross-checks with customs databases, making proper declaration at the airport crucial for avoiding hefty fees later.
What worked well for me was understanding that this mandatory registration protects against phone theft and ensures only legitimate devices operate on local networks.
Understanding the Legal Requirements
The phone registration law Uzbekistan requires all mobile devices to be registered within 30 days of first connecting to a local network.
From my research, non-residents get a grace period of up to 60 days when using foreign SIM cards in roaming mode.
I found that devices with dual SIM capabilities require registration for each IMEI code separately, effectively doubling the registration fees.
My Step-by-Step Airport Registration Experience
Here’s exactly how I navigated the Tashkent airport phone registration process during my arrival.
Step 1: Finding Your Phone’s IMEI Numbers
I strongly recommend that you register both IMEI numbers if your phone has dual SIM capability.
You can find out your IMEI code Uzbekistan by typing *#06# on your phone’s dialer.
Step 2: Locating the Customs Registration Desk
Once I arrived at Tashkent airport, I passed through passport control and collected my checked baggage.
What I found helpful was looking for the customs officers sitting on the right side after the green customs control corridor, just before the main exit.
The Uzbekistan customs phone declaration desk is clearly marked and staffed by officers who can assist with the registration process.
Step 3: Completing the Customs Declaration Form
I took the customs form from the officers and filled out all my personal information, including my country of origin and both phone IMEI codes.
In my experience, it’s crucial to mark your phone as “used” if it’s your personal device and list the cost under $1,000 to avoid additional customs taxes.
Step 4: Document and Device Verification
I handed over my passport and completed form to the customs officers, who then asked me to show and unlock my phone for IMEI verification.
If you’re bringing a new phone, I recommend keeping the original box handy so officers can scan the IMEI codes directly from the packaging.
Step 5: System Entry and Confirmation
The officers quickly entered my data into their system and confirmed everything was in order.
What surprised me was that they don’t provide any physical confirmation or receipt—you just get verbal confirmation to proceed.
My Online Registration Journey Through UZIMEI
After completing the airport declaration, I had to complete the online registration within 30 days to avoid service interruption.
Step 6: Navigating the UZIMEI Website
I found that Uzbekistan phone registration online through the official uzimei.uz registration guide is the most reliable method.
The my.gov.uz phone registration option is available for Uzbek citizens, but I used the dedicated UZIMEI portal.
What worked for me was ensuring that the person who crossed the border is the same person registering online, as the system performs facial recognition verification.
Face ID Security Verification Process
The Face ID security check UZIMEI system was introduced in October 2023 to prevent fraudulent registrations using other people’s personal data.
I discovered that this biometric verification must match the passport information from the person who declared the phone at customs.
Step 7: Payment and Final Registration
Once I passed the security checks and filled out my information, I needed to pay the IMEI registration fee Uzbekistan for each IMEI number.
For dual SIM registration Uzbekistan, you’ll pay double the standard fee since each IMEI requires separate registration.
I used Payme phone registration and Click Uzbekistan IMEI payment options, which made the process smooth and convenient.
Understanding Registration Costs and Timelines
Based on my experience and research, the IMEI registration fee Uzbekistan structure is quite straightforward but varies based on timing.
Current Fee Structure
I learned that registering within the first 30 days costs 75,000 UZS (approximately $6-7 USD) per IMEI code.
If you miss the 30-day window like I almost did, the fee increases to 93,750 UZS (about $8-9 USD) for registration between 30-60 days.
What shocked me was discovering that undeclared phones now incur a 30% customs fee based on the device’s declared value, which can be hundreds of dollars.
Registration Timeline Requirements
In my experience, the Uzbekistan phone registration 30 days deadline is strictly enforced by the system.
I found that people need to register their phones in Uzbekistan if they plan to use local SIM cards for more than 30 days.
Non-residents using foreign SIM cards in roaming mode get an extended 60-day grace period before registration becomes mandatory.
Alternative Registration Methods I Discovered
During my research, I found several ways to complete the registration process beyond the standard online method.
Using the BIRDA Mobile App
The BIRDA app offers a convenient mobile solution for register phone IMEI in Uzbekistan with built-in Face ID verification.
I found that the app supports multiple payment methods including UZCARD, HUMO, VISA, and MasterCard for maximum convenience.
What impressed me was the app’s ability to check registration status and provide access to payment history for all your registered devices.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Through my experience and conversations with others, I’ve identified several common issues people face during registration.
High-Value Device Complications
When dealing with expensive devices, I learned that proper customs declaration is crucial to avoid the phone value limit Uzbekistan customs penalties.
My approach for expensive phones was to mark them as “used” on the customs form and value them conservatively under $1,000.
eSIM Registration Considerations
I found that register eSIM Uzbekistan follows the same process as physical SIM slots, requiring separate IMEI registration.
Modern phones with eSIM capability often have multiple IMEI codes, which means multiple registration fees.
Mobile Network Options After Registration
Once I completed my registration, I explored the local mobile operators to find the best service for my needs.
Major Mobile Operators
Beeline Uzbekistan offers comprehensive coverage and competitive data packages that worked well for my international calling needs.
I found Ucell Uzbekistan provides excellent urban coverage and now offers eSIM services through the BIRDA app.
Mobiuz (UMS) became my preferred choice for high-speed internet due to their extensive 4G coverage in Tashkent.
Getting Your Local SIM Card
To get local SIM card Uzbekistan, I visited official operator stores with my passport and registered phone.
The Uzbekistan tourist SIM card options are available at the airport and major shopping centers throughout Tashkent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to register phone IMEI in Uzbekistan?
Register your phone IMEI by first declaring it at customs upon arrival, then completing online registration at uzimei.uz within 30 days, passing Face ID verification, and paying the registration fee.
What happens if I don’t register my phone in Uzbekistan?
Your phone will lose cellular network access after 30 days for residents or 60 days for non-residents using foreign SIM cards, making it impossible to make calls or use mobile internet.
How much does it cost to register a phone in Uzbekistan?
Registration costs 75,000 UZS (about $6-7) per IMEI within 30 days, or 93,750 UZS (about $8-9) between 30-60 days, with undeclared phones facing additional 30% customs fees.
Can I register my phone after 30 days in Uzbekistan?
Yes, you can register between 30-60 days at a higher fee of 93,750 UZS per IMEI, but after 60 days, registration becomes much more complicated and expensive.
How to pay for IMEI registration in Uzbekistan?
You can pay through PayMe, Click, UZCARD, HUMO, VISA, or MasterCard via the uzimei.uz website, BIRDA app, or at authorized payment centers.
Do tourists need to register their phones in Uzbekistan?
People using foreign SIM cards have 60 days before registration becomes mandatory, but those getting local SIM cards must register within 30 days of first network connection.
How to register a dual SIM phone in Uzbekistan?
Each IMEI code in a dual SIM phone requires separate registration and payment, effectively doubling the registration cost since you’re registering two different device identifiers.
Can I register my phone online in Uzbekistan?
Yes, online registration is available through uzimei.uz, my.gov.uz (for citizens), or the BIRDA app, but requires prior customs declaration and Face ID verification.
What to do if I forgot to register my phone at the airport in Uzbekistan?
Unfortunately, based on my research, you cannot complete IMEI registration without first having the device in the customs database, requiring either initial declaration or paying customs fees later.
How to avoid phone tax at Uzbekistan customs?
Declare your phone at customs upon arrival, mark it as “used” if it’s your personal device, and value it under $1,000 to avoid the 30% customs fee that applies to undeclared devices.
How to check if my IMEI is registered in Uzbekistan?
Check your IMEI status through the uzimei.uz website, BIRDA app, or by calling the support hotline at 1170 for real-time registration verification.
How long can I use a foreign phone in Uzbekistan without registration?
You can use a foreign phone for 30 days with local SIM cards or 60 days with foreign SIM cards in roaming mode before registration becomes mandatory to maintain network access.
What if my phone costs more than $1000 in Uzbekistan?
I recommend marking expensive phones as “used” on customs forms and declaring a value under $1,000 to avoid the 30% customs fee, which can add hundreds of dollars to registration costs.
What if I leave Uzbekistan for a short trip and return? Can I register my phone then?
Based on my experience, to be eligible to declare a phone upon re-entry, you must have been outside of Uzbekistan for at least three consecutive days. A shorter trip might not reset your eligibility.
Essential Tips for Smooth Registration
Based on my experience helping others with their registrations, here are the key strategies that ensure success.
Preparation Before Arrival
I always advise people to write down their IMEI codes before traveling and keep screenshots as backup verification.
For new phones, keeping the original packaging helps speed up the customs declaration process significantly.
During the Registration Process
What I found most important was ensuring good lighting and a stable internet connection during the Face ID verification process.
I recommend completing registration during business hours when support staff are available to help with technical issues.
Conclusion
Registering your phone IMEI in Uzbekistan doesn’t have to be complicated if you follow the proper steps and understand the requirements.
My experience taught me that proper customs declaration at the airport is crucial for avoiding expensive fees later in the process.
The key to success is acting quickly—complete your customs declaration upon arrival and finish online registration within 30 days to minimize costs and avoid service interruption.
While the system may seem bureaucratic, it serves an important purpose in protecting consumers from stolen devices and ensuring network security.
I encourage anyone visiting Uzbekistan long-term to budget for registration fees and plan accordingly to maintain uninterrupted mobile service.
