Uzbekistan expands legal migration pathways to US following New York forum

A high-level delegation of Uzbekistan, including representatives from the Migration Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Embassy of Uzbekistan in the United States, participated in the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) held in New York City from May 5–10. During the event, the delegation conducted a series of negotiations with American educational, recruiting, and legal organizations to expand bilateral cooperation in labor migration.

Strategic partnerships were established to prepare Uzbek specialists for the US labor market across several high-demand sectors. A cooperation agreement was signed with Logan University to launch joint educational programs for training medical personnel. Similarly, discussions with the Missouri Trucking School focused on a mechanism to train and place truck drivers according to American standards through a specialized 160-hour training curriculum.

Agricultural labor migration also featured prominently in the negotiations. The delegation met with the National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) to discuss organizing labor forums and expanding seasonal work programs. Furthermore, an agreement was reached with Head Honchos, a seasonal recruiting firm, to facilitate H-2A visas and organize 8–10-week preparatory courses that highlight Uzbekistan’s agricultural human resources potential.

To ensure the safety and legality of Uzbek citizens working abroad, the delegation met with the law firm Ballon Stoll. The talks centered on expanding employment opportunities via O, H-2A, H-2B, H-1B, and E visas, while also strengthening legal protection mechanisms for Uzbek migrants currently in the United States.

Earlier, the agency reported on agreements reached with USA Farm Land. Under the arrangement, Uzbek citizens are expected to work on American farms with an average monthly salary of $3,500. A similar partnership with Head Honchos LLC ensures that candidates undergo rigorous selection and training to meet international standards before placement in the U.S. agricultural sector.