Uzbekistan Boosts Overseas Jobs with Cruise Industry Pact with North Macedonia

Uzbekistan and North Macedonia are advancing their partnership in international labor migration, focusing on employment opportunities for Uzbek citizens aboard international cruise ships.

A meeting was held in Tashkent between officials of the Agency for External Labor Migration of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Zoran Kochoski, Executive Director of Kouzon Corporation, a North Macedonian recruitment company with nearly three decades of global experience, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

The two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at facilitating the official employment of Uzbek nationals on international passenger vessels operating in major maritime regions, including the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Baltic Sea, Scandinavia, and parts of the Pacific Ocean.

The initiative targets English-speaking Uzbek citizens seeking legal employment abroad in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Kouzon Corporation, operating in 18 countries, currently places 20,000-25,000 workers annually across its international cruise network.

According to the agreement:

Initial contracts will offer a starting monthly salary of $1,200 during six months.

After completing the term, workers will receive a two-month paid vacation.

Renewed six-month contracts may include salary increases of up to $4,000, based on role and experience.

All accommodation and onboard living expenses will be covered by the employer. Additionally, an expedited visa process for C1/D transit visas-ranging from 45 to 90 days-will be arranged and financed by the hosting party.

At the close of the meeting, both parties agreed to jointly develop a roadmap for swift implementation, paving the way for Uzbek citizens to access high-demand cruise industry jobs under secure and regulated conditions.