Uzbekistan introduces new subsidies for education and employment support

The government of Uzbekistan has established a new framework for providing subsidies and loans aimed at boosting professional development and supporting vulnerable segments of the population. These measures, funded by the State Fund for Employment Promotion, focus on expanding access to the labor market for people with disabilities, former inmates, and educators.

Under the new regulations, individuals with disabilities who intend to start or expand a business can apply for interest-free loans. These loans, capped at 75 times the Base Calculating Amount (BCA) – which currently equals UZS 30,900,000 – are provided for up to three years with a six-month grace period. The funds are designated for purchasing equipment, tools, raw materials, and covering internet connection costs. For reference, the BCA has been set at UZS 412,000 since August 1, 2025.

Employers are also eligible for various subsidies to encourage inclusive hiring practices. Companies that adapt their workplaces and labor conditions for employees with disabilities can receive up to 40 times the BCA per workstation. Furthermore, if a company hires workers through employment centers, the state will cover vocational training and retraining costs, providing four times the BCA monthly for each employee over a six-month period.

Additional incentives target the employment of socially vulnerable groups. Businesses that hire such individuals beyond the mandatory minimum quota will receive a monthly subsidy of two times the BCA per worker for one year. Similarly, a one-time subsidy of three times the BCA is available to employers who hire individuals released from correctional facilities, provided the employee remains in the position for more than three months.

The support package also extends to the education sector. From July 1, 2026, to January 1, 2028, teachers and industrial training masters can apply for a 50% reimbursement of costs incurred while obtaining recognized national or international professional certificates. This reimbursement is capped at 20 times the BCA, or approximately UZS 8,240,000. During the same period, businesses establishing centers for professional skills assessment can claim 30% of their equipment costs, up to a maximum of 200 times the BCA.

Applicants can access these financial instruments through several digital platforms, including my.gov.uz, the "Single National Labor System," and the "Online Mahalla" electronic portal.