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Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan Discuss Biometric ID Recognition for Border Crossings

By Vusala Abbasova February 1, 2025

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If approved, this initiative would allow citizens to use their national biometric ID cards instead of passports when traveling between the two countries.

Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are exploring the possibility of recognizing biometric ID cards as valid documents for border crossing instead of passports. The initiative, if implemented, could simplify travel procedures between the two countries and reduce administrative burdens for citizens of both nations.

The proposal was discussed during an online meeting between representatives of Azerbaijan’s State Migration Service and the Citizenship Registration Department, along with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs’ Entry-Exit department. Consular and legal departments of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from both countries also participated in the discussion.

If approved, this initiative would allow citizens to use their national biometric ID cards instead of passports when traveling between the two countries. This move aligns with efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance regional connectivity.

Earlier in August, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed the mutual recognition of ID cards among Central Asian countries. He highlighted that the tourism sector is becoming a key driver of regional partnership and emphasized the benefits of easing travel restrictions.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to deepen cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in various sectors, including trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. Uzbekistan is among the top ten sources of tourists for Azerbaijan, with visitor numbers steadily increasing. In 2024, the number of Uzbek tourists traveling to Azerbaijan surged by 16 percent.

Azerbaijan has prior experience with similar agreements. In 2021, the country signed a protocol with Türkiye that allows citizens of both nations to travel using only an ID card instead of a passport. Similarly, since September 1, 2023, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have adopted an identical system, enabling citizens to enter, exit, and travel within each other's territories using ID cards.

Additionally, at a meeting of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis on November 20, 2024, President Mirziyoyev announced future plans to allow Uzbeks to cross the borders of Kazakhstan and Tajikistan using an ID card.