Is Christianity legal in Uzbekistan?

Although the Russian Orthodox Church is recognized and the majority of Christians in Uzbekistan are of Russian ethnicity, the house church movement has gained popularity recently. There may be as many as 10,000 ethnic Uzbek Christians. A small number of evangelical congregations have been permitted to register in recent years, but the majority have not, and they frequently hold meetings under secret service monitoring, running the risk of police searches, fines and literature seizure. Because they are viewed as cultural or religious traitors, converts from Islam also experience pressure from their families and communities.

Bibles and other Christian literature are frequently seized and destroyed. Christians have been informed that while owning a Bible is permitted, reading it is restricted to specific locations, such as officially recognized church buildings.Bibles cannot be sold through any other channels, and only religious materials authorized by the State Committee for Religious Affairs may be circulated. The government-recognized Uzbek Bible Society is permitted to exist, but its operations are severely controlled. Christians who are accused of unlawfully storing, importing, or disseminating Christian items may face steep fines. All imports of Bibles and Christian literature are inspected, occasionally seized and burned.

The peaceful coexistence of various religious traditions, such as Islam, Christianity and others, is a common sight for visitors to Uzbekistan. The country is a fascinating place for cultural discovery because its historical sites, including Samarkand and Bukhara, also show signs of various past influences.

If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan, applying for an eVisa is the easiest way to begin your journey. Visit our website to secure your Uzbekistan eVisa and experience the country’s unique mix of history, culture, and religious diversity for yourself!