How I got my IT Card and IT Visa in 10 days: a founder’s experience in Uzbekistan

Tawney Kruger, a media specialist at Financial IT and a tech entrepreneur behind initiatives such as PraaktisGO, Zaytra.ai, and kpi.com, recently discussed the process of registering a business in Uzbekistan. In her latest article, she delves into the IT Visa program, detailing the application process, the necessary documentation, and how it is creating new opportunities for international entrepreneurs.

Tawney Kruger, city — Tashkent, media professional and tech entrepreneur, linkedin

My 10-day journey

It took just 10 days for me to obtain both my IT Card and my IT Visa. Presently, Uzbekistan is progressively establishing itself as a true regional technology hub. With generous tax incentives and startup-friendly regulations, the government is actively seeking to attract foreign entrepreneurs. One of the most advantageous initiatives they have launched is the IT Visa program, aimed at facilitating the residency and work of investors, specialists, and founders in the country. As a founder engaged in various other projects within the startup ecosystem, I immediately took advantage of this visa opportunity once I learned about it. What astonished me the most was the simplicity of completing the application and submitting it online, but primarily, the entire process took less than 10 days. Throughout this journey, I uncovered several insights that are often overlooked in most guides — such as the fact that applications are reviewed during IT Park’s monthly board meetings, and that possessing an active guest or B2 visa significantly eases the transition. Like everyone else navigating this process, I submitted all my documents through the IT Park online portal. The portal features a clear and user-friendly interface, available in English, which is a considerable improvement compared to other government portals I have encountered.

In a true display of Uzbek hospitality, several IT Park staff members reached out to me directly during the process. I had a dedicated support team assisting me and keeping me informed about my application status.

Since I submitted my application just prior to the board meeting, my case was reviewed and approved promptly.

Requirements in practice: steps to obtain an IT Visa after receiving the IT Card

As a founder, the documentation I needed included:

— two copies of the application form: one stamped as proof of submission.

— both the copy and the original of the IT Card issued by IT Park.

— an invitation letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

— a certificate of state registration for my company.

— order appointing a director, if necessary

— proof of my active business visa B2.

Applications are submitted through the portal but are finalized by the Migration and Citizenship Registration Department in Tashkent or the appropriate regional office, depending on your company's location.

IT Visa vs. IT Card

Let’s clarify the distinction, as this often confuses newcomers:

The IT Visa is a multiple-entry visa valid for up to three years. It permits you to legally reside and work in Uzbekistan without requiring a separate work permit. The IT Card serves as your access pass to various benefits and privileges. It grants you the right to:

— utilize medical and educational services in public institutions at the same rates as Uzbek citizens.

— acquire real estate of any value.

— secure residence registration in any region of Uzbekistan for the duration of the IT Card's validity.

These provisions also extend to family members who possess an IT Visa or IT Card.

Both are necessary. The visa provides the legal foundation for your presence; the card facilitates practical everyday freedoms.

What to know before you apply

While the application process is straightforward and efficient, there are two crucial points to consider when applying:

Applications are reviewed on a monthly basis. Each application — including mine — is presented at IT Park’s board meeting at the end of each month. The board votes on approvals and rejections. This means if you submit your application just before a meeting, you could receive your visa in 10 days, as I did. Conversely, if you apply right after, you may find yourself waiting closer to a month. Timing is essential. Ensure you have a valid guest or B2 visa beforehand. An active business visa facilitates the entire process. It keeps you legally in the country while your IT Visa is being processed. Without it, you risk legal complications that could affect your stay. Fortunately, B2 visas are relatively easy to acquire — either through Uzbekistan’s consulates abroad or via the e-visa portal — e-visa.gov.uz. Another alternative is to obtain a guest visa through an invitation from an individual or entity legally registered in Uzbekistan via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The IT Visa represents more than just paperwork — it embodies policy in action. Uzbekistan is clearly indicating its desire to attract global tech talent and is supporting this initiative with tangible structures:

— 3-year multiple-entry visas with renewable terms.

— tax exemptions for IT Park resident companies.

— property ownership rights for foreign founders.

— streamlined hiring regulations for foreign workers

— personal assistance throughout the application process.

For me, obtaining this visa represented more than simply remaining in the country. I aspire to integrate into their ecosystem and observe it in action. The IT Visa illustrates how this previously closed nation is now opening up to the world, signaling that international founders are not merely tolerated but are actively embraced.

Insights for prospective applicants

If you are contemplating the IT Visa, here are my recommendations:

1. Align your application with the board meeting schedule. Submit your application at least 7-10 days before the end of the month. This is particularly important if you have limited time or share my impatience, as I was pressed for time with my previous visa nearing expiration, making it a rush to finalize everything.

2. Enter on a valid guest or B2 visa. This is the simplest way to remain compliant during the transition.

3. Be prepared with your documentation. For specialists, proof of a $30,000 income is mandatory. For investors, the $10,000 requirement must be substantiated with a bank statement.

4. Anticipate genuine communication. Don’t be taken aback if IT Park staff reach out via call or message — they truly want to assist.

When I submitted my application, I expected a slow process laden with bureaucracy. Instead, I received prompt, clear responses and a positive outcome in just ten days.

Of course, there are some formalities: key decisions are made monthly, and you must possess a valid visa before commencing. However, my experience revealed a functional system — one that is designed to support founders, investors, and specialists eager to contribute to Uzbekistan’s rapidly expanding startup ecosystem.

To me, the IT Card and IT Visa represent much more than mere documents. They are keys — keys to making significant strides in Tashkent, keys that place me on equal footing with local entrepreneurs, and keys that open the doors to one of Central Asia’s most vibrant ventures.