Paying a photo tax in Uzbekistan

Hi, I just read the various discussions about the photo tax that’s being asked for in Uzbekistan, but that info is from 2016/2017. I’m leaving next week for Tashkent/Samarkand/Bukhara/Khiva, and I’ve been told a 50 USD tax is required for photos. I really get the feeling this is a "forced sale" and an exorbitant amount. Have any of you paid this tax recently? Thanks

In 2024 we didn’t pay any tax for photos or videos anywhere in Uzbekistan.

Trip made in 2023 and no tax paid anywhere. Only note: I wanted to take photos with a tripod in the metro and the guards asked me to put it away. But normal photos, no problem at all.

Thanks for your reply.

Thanks for your reply

Only comment: I tried to take photos with a tripod in the metro and the guards asked me to put it away.

Ughhhh, Parkinson’s is such a pain when traveling...

Hi there. I was there in April. No photo tax was asked for, no matter the place. Enjoy your trip! This country and its people are wonderful.

At first glance, no taxes are required, but you do need prior oral or written permission from the people you photograph. A law was passed in early October 2025 by the Uzbek Parliament!! Will its enforcement be strict? Denis1955

We didn’t have to pay any photo tax. We didn’t even hear about it.