Uzbekistan updates regulations on tinted windows for foreign vehicles entering the country

Uzbekistan has simplified the procedure for collecting mandatory fees from foreign vehicles with tinted windows entering the country. Under the updated rules, the fee will now apply only when the front side windows of a vehicle are tinted, while payments can be made electronically through a QR code in the E-tranzit system.

The changes were introduced through a joint resolution by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the State Security Service. According to the Customs Committee’s press service, the document was registered by the Ministry of Justice on March 4.

Fee now applies only to front side windows

Under the revised rules, the process for collecting mandatory fees from foreign passenger vehicles with tinted windows has been significantly simplified.

From now on, the fee will be charged only if the front side windows of a foreign vehicle are tinted. The previous requirement to pay separate fees for the front, side, and rear windows has been abolished.

Officials say the change aims to simplify procedures for foreign drivers entering Uzbekistan temporarily or traveling through the country in transit.

Electronic payment introduced through QR code

Another change allows drivers to pay the fee electronically using a QR code generated by the automated E-tranzit information system.

During inspections by road patrol officers, the payment confirmation can be verified either through a receipt or through the unified account data recorded in the system, both of which will be recognized as official documents.

Background of the regulation

The fee was initially introduced under a July 18, 2018 resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers titled “On measures to regulate the use of vehicles with modified tinted windows.”

Under that resolution, foreign passenger vehicles with tinted windows entering Uzbekistan temporarily or passing through the country in transit are required to pay a $15 fee to the state budget.

In Uzbekistan, rear windows and rear door windows may be tinted without permission and free of charge. However, for individuals, tinting the front door windows requires an annual payment of eight BCVs– currently amounting to UZS 3,296,000.

Regional debate over the fee

Earlier, Dastan Bekeshev, a member of the Kyrgyz parliament, stated that Kyrgyz drivers whose vehicles have tinted windows are required to pay the $15 fee when transiting through Uzbekistan.

He proposed introducing reciprocal measures or abolishing the fee altogether. Following the statement, the Kyrgyz Foreign Minister said the issue would be reviewed.