How do foreigners obtain a residence permit in Kazakhstan?

General information about Kazakhstan

The Republic of Kazakhstan occupies a central position on the Eurasian continent and shares borders with five countries. To the north and west, it neighbors Russia, which defines the longest border line. In the south, Kazakhstan's borders touch Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, while the eastern border is with China. In terms of size, Kazakhstan ranks ninth in the world ranking, similar in area to the territory of Western Europe.

It is the second largest country in the post-Soviet space, second only to Russia, and the largest landlocked country.

Economic development

Kazakhstan's economy has shown impressive growth since the collapse of the Soviet Union, increasing eighteen-fold to nearly 193 billion dollars. Gross domestic product per capita has increased more than 14 times, equivalent to 10,155 dollars in 2021. According to the national statistical service, this exceeds the 2020 level by 1,303 dollars.

International relations

Kazakhstan is actively involved in the functioning of many international associations, including:

• CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States)
• Eurasian Economic Union
• CSTO
• OECD
• Shanghai Cooperation Organization
• United Nations
• World Trade Organization
• OSCE
• Organization of Islamic Cooperation
• Türksoy

The capital of Kazakhstan isNur-Sultanand the country's currency is calledtenge.

Population and migration

The population of Kazakhstan exceeds 18.7 million people. Before the pandemic, more than 6 million foreign citizens visited the republic every year, and about 3 million were in transit. In 2021, according to statistics, 61.1 thousand Russian citizens, 8.2 thousand Ukrainians and 1.7 thousand Belarusians moved to Kazakhstan, totaling more than 767.5 thousand migrants.

The highest level of immigration was recorded in 2019, when Kazakhstan welcomed 1.122 million people, the majority of whom were from Central Asia.

Current migration trends

In the first half of 2022, there is a twofold increase in the number of Russians arriving in Kazakhstan compared to the previous year. In the period from February to April this year, more than 128 thousand citizens of the Russian Federation and about three thousand Ukrainians entered the republic. From January to March 2022, 16,837 people from Russia received temporary residence permits. The largest group of arrivals, 8,217 people, were labor migrants.

In the indicated period about thousand person filing application for the receipt of the view on the residence, a 170 rossiyan - on the receipt of the citizenship of Kazakhstan.

Nationality and passport data

In total, 57.7 thousand passports of citizenship were issued in 2021. In the first three months of 2022, the number of new citizens of Kazakhstan amounted to 4,438 people. This growth is indicative of the high interest from foreigners who are looking for a new place to live and work in the republic.

Almaty International Airport

Almaty International Airport occupies a central place in the air transportation system of Kazakhstan, being the most important transportation hub. It represents the main point for both domestic and international air transportation.

Visa policy of Kazakhstan

An important aspect of traveling to Kazakhstan is the visa policy, which allows citizens of certain countries that have visa-free entry agreements with the republic to visit the country without the need for a visa. Such countries include:

• Russia
• Belarus
• Ukraine
• Argentina
• Brazil
• Hong Kong
• Mongolia
• United Arab Emirates
• Serbia
• Turkey
• Ecuador
• South Korea

Visa-free entry for neighboring countries

Citizens of countries belonging to the near abroad can easily cross the border of Kazakhstan and stay in the country without a visa for a period up to90 daysper half a year, provided you have a valid passport. The list of countries whose citizens can enter without a visa is quite extensive. For example:

• Azerbaijan
• Armenia
• Belarus
• Georgia
• and others

These states grant their citizens the right to stay in Kazakhstan without a visa for a period of up to90 daysor during the term of the employment contract.

New rules for visa-free entry

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the list of countries with visa-free entry is quite diverse. Starting fromJanuary 1, 2022Kazakhstan has introduced a unilateral visa-free regime for its citizens57 Statesthat allows you to stay in the country without a visa up to30 dayson each new visit. However, the total number of days spent in the territory of the republic within the framework of different trips must not exceed90 daysfor180-day period.

Reasons for traveling to Kazakhstan

Travel to Kazakhstan under visa-free entry can have a variety of purposes, including:

• Tourist visits
• Private trips
• Short-term business objectives

Activities such as attending conferences or signing contracts are also included. However, it should be noted that it is prohibited for tourists to carry out labor activities in the country.

Notification of migration authorities

In addition, it is important that persons receiving foreign nationals notify the migration authorities of the arrival of a foreigner within the first three working days. This process is important and compliance with it contributes to a comfortable and safe stay in the country.

Usually this procedure of notification of the arrival of foreigners is carried out by the administration of hotels, but in case a tourist prefers to rent private accommodation or intends to stay with friends or relatives, the responsibility for notifying the migration service falls on the owner of the accommodation. This rule is very important to comply with migration regulations and to ensure the peace of mind of both the guests and the receiving party.

The application for registration can be submitted through a specialized visa and migration portal or in the eqonaq system. In addition, it is possible to submit documents in the usual form by going directly to the migration authorities. In order to successfully complete the registration procedure, it is necessary to have your passport, the migration card issued at the border, as well as a memorized application. Failure to comply with this mandatory requirement may result in a fine ranging from 10 to 20 monthly calculation indices (MRP). In 2022, the price of one MRP was 3,063 Tenge, which is equivalent to approximately US$7.2.

Foreign representations of Kazakhstan

Foreign representations of the Republic of Kazakhstan include embassies in a number of countries such as Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and Armenia.

Visa requirements for foreign nationals

When planning visits of foreign citizens to Kazakhstan, it is imperative to consider the possibility of obtaining a visa depending on the purpose of the trip and the expected duration of stay. Knowledge of the different types of visas and the criteria for obtaining them will be extremely useful.

Visa categories

• Investor visa- is created for directors and their deputies, as well as heads of departments of companies engaged in investments in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Also, foreigners making investments under the tax residency program for investors can give preference to this visa. Family members of such persons, including spouses and children, will also be able to apply for the visa. A single-entry visa of this type is issued for up to 90 days, while a multiple-entry visa can remain valid for 5 years with the possibility of extension for 3 years.
• B1, B2, B3 category visas- These visas are intended for those seeking to travel for business. They include participants in all possible events - conferences, forums, symposiums, as well as student and youth exchange programs, lecturers, consultants and auditors. Those wishing to conclude contracts or conduct negotiations can also apply. Single-entry visas of this group are issued for up to 90 days, while multiple-entry visas are issued for up to 1 year (categories B1 and B3), or 180 days (category B2).
• B8 visa- this category is intended for those who plan to obtain a residence permit. This category includes both citizens who arrived under the visa-free regime and those who are in Kazakhstan on a C3 work visa. Both single-entry and multiple-entry visas can be granted for a period of 90 days with a further right to extend for another 30 days.
• Visa category B10- a type of visa for individuals who seek to visit Kazakhstan for personal reasons. This visa is available to nationals from 48 countries with a high level of economic and political development, including country such as Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy and the Netherlands.

Conclusion

So, before planning a trip to Kazakhstan, you should carefully study the visa conditions and prepare an appropriate application to avoid possible problems in the future.

Categories of temporary visas to Kazakhstan

Temporary visas valid in Kazakhstan are classified into several types, each of which has unique characteristics and conditions. The first type is a single-entry visa, which provides the opportunity to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

For those who travel frequently, a multiple-entry visa is a better option, as it can be valid for up to 180 days. These visas are usually intended for tourists who want to attend cultural events, participate in excursions and get acquainted with the rich historical heritage of the country.

Visas for family reunification

There are also visas designed forfamily reunionswhich allow close people, such as spouses who have been married for at least three years, to meet in Kazakhstan.

In addition, family members include unmarried children who have reached the age of 18 and disabled parents. Forethnic Kazakhsand former citizens who have a residence permit (RVP) for at least two years, the conditions for staying in the country are significantly simplified.

Work visas in Kazakhstan

Citizens of foreign countries planning to carry out labor activity in Kazakhstan may obtain a work visa of the following typesC3,C4andC6. These visas are suitable for both the employees hired and their families.

Certain occupations may be subject to requirements that are considered a priority for Kazakhstan's economy. The jobs for which a work visa can be obtained include both temporary vacancies and permanent employment.

Citizens of CIS and EAEU countries, such as:

• Azerbaijan
• Armenia
• Belarus
• Kyrgyzstan
• Russia
• Tajikistan
• Uzbekistan

You can apply for single entry visa types C3, C4 and C6 for up to 90 days without the need to obtain a visa.

Multiple-entry visas

Multiple visas likeC3also exist and can be issued for up to three years for participants of Astana Hub programs. VisaC4can be obtained for a similar period of time. However, a multiple-entry visaC6assumes a validity period of only one year, and it cannot exceed the time frame specified in the authorization.

Visa for entrepreneurs

A visa is available for entrepreneurs in KazakhstanS5A single-entry visa is valid for 90 days and a multiple-entry visa is valid for up to two or three years for ethnic Kazakhs. The single-entry version of this visa is valid for 90 days, while the multiple-entry version is valid for up to two or three years for ethnic Kazakhs.

Student visa

The other option is a visaS9This visa is intended for students who intend to study in educational institutions, both secondary and tertiary. Single-entry visas for students are valid for up to 90 days, while multiple-entry visas can be issued for up to one year.

Temporary residence permit

If a foreigner intends to stay in Kazakhstan for more than 30 days, he or she must obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP). A visa is not required for citizens of EAEU countries if their stay does not exceed 90 days.

A residence permit is granted for one year and can be used for a variety of purposes, including labor activity, entrepreneurship, family reunification, education, medical care and missionary work.

The request for such authorization is submitted by the receiving party to the migration authorities of Kazakhstan, which is a mandatory step for obtaining a visa.

ETA exemption for immigrants

Immigrants who came to Kazakhstan have the opportunity to obtain an exemption from the need to obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP) in various situations. Such categories include foreigners who arrived with visas, holders of service and diplomatic passports, as well as children under 16 years of age.

Capital of Kazakhstan

Speaking about the capital of this country, it is worth emphasizing that Nur-Sultan is an important center, where numerous public institutions and private companies are concentrated. In order to apply for a permit, it is necessary to prepare certain documents in advance.

Necessary documents

First of all, it is necessary to fill in the application forms (Form 1), which must be executed by the representative of the receiving party. In addition, it is necessary to provide the original and a copy of the foreigner's identity document for their verification.

General provisions on the status of aliens

The basic rights and obligations of foreign citizens, as well as the mechanisms for their entry, stay and exit from Kazakhstan are determined by legislation called the “Law on the Legal Status of Foreigners”. This normative act establishes clear rules for different categories of persons coming to the country. In particular, the possibility of obtaining a permanent residence permit in Kazakhstan is granted to ethnic Kazakhs, persons who are recognized as refugees, as well as foreign nationals on special visas allowing long-term stay in the country or for other legal reasons.

Visa-free entry for EEU citizens

One of the grounds allowing visa-free entry are citizens of the Eurasian Economic Union, which includes Kazakhstan, Armenia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Russia, as outlined in Article 7 of the migration legislation. Citizens of other states need to justify the reasons why they require a residence permit in Kazakhstan in their applications.

Reasons for obtaining a residence permit

• Opening a business
• Labor activity
• Investments
• Family reunion
• Marriage with a citizen of Kazakhstan
• Repatriation

It is important to note that simply acquiring real estate in the country is not a sufficient basis for obtaining a residence permit. Moreover, without this document, foreigners are prohibited from making real estate transactions.

Circumstances that facilitate the process of obtaining status

Certain factors can make it easier to obtain permanent residence. These factors include:

• Birth of a foreigner on Kazakhstani soil
• Having previously obtained Kazakhstani citizenship
• Close or distant relatives registered in the country
• Birth of a child on the territory of Kazakhstan

Real estate market offers

As far as the real estate market in Kazakhstan is concerned, there are attractive offers. For example, there is a 158 m² apartment for sale for €811,046 located in a new multifunctional residential complex in the center of Nur-Sultan (Astana). This complex includes both residential and hotel rooms, a class A business center and commercial premises with boutiques of famous international brands.

In addition, a land plot of 132,000 m² at a price of € 7,353,354 located in a picturesque area of Kokshetau at 1, Ablaikhan Avenue is for sale. The plot is equipped with a fence, has easy access for transportation and is partially free from development. On its territory there are buildings that were previously used as industrial premises and are now subject to demolition. The design documentation is being developed by the well-known architectural bureau “AEL Trust” LLP, located in Astana.

Documents for obtaining a residence permit

Now about the necessary documents to obtain a permanent residence permit in Kazakhstan. To obtain this status, foreigners need to fill out an application form and collect a package of other necessary documents, which will be submitted to the competent authorities. Obtaining this permit will allow them to stay legally on the territory of Kazakhstan and, subject to certain conditions, open access to a number of benefits that are related to the rights and obligations granted to foreigners residing in Kazakhstan.

Application process for permanent residence in Kazakhstan

In order to apply for permanent residence in Kazakhstan, it is necessary to have a valid passport, the validity period of which exceeds 180 days at the time of submission. You will also need to provide a document that confirms the consent of the state of citizenship to leave the country. This may be a certificate of departure or any similar document.

Autobiography and documents for children

The CV must be written in one of the state languages - Russian or Kazakh, in an arbitrary form and must be signed by the applicant. If you are applying together with children under 18 years of age, their birth certificates must be attached.

Requirements for teenagers

Teenagers aged 14 to 18 years old must provide a notarized consent for permanent residence in Kazakhstan. In addition, the application must be accompanied by:

• No criminal record;
• Medical records including:
• A certificate from the dermatovenereological dispensary;
• Conclusion of the psychoneurological dispensary;
• A certificate from a narcologist.
• HIV test result;
• Conclusion from the infectious disease specialist.
• One photograph sized 35×45 mm.

Documents confirming the right to housing

The document that confirms your right to housing must also be notarized. This can be a rental agreement or an agreement with an individual or legal entity. It is also important to have financial documents that verify your solvency. A certificate from a Kazakh bank should confirm the availability of funds of at least 1,320 MRP (approximately $9,500) for each adult family member, as well as sufficient funds to purchase housing, based on a minimum of 15 square meters per family member. Exceptions include:

• Ethnic Kazakhs;
• Individuals who were born or had citizenship of the Republic of Kazakhstan;
• Citizens of Russia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, and Ukraine.

If you already have a residence agreement, then a certificate of funds for housing is not required.

Validity periods of documents and services

The validity period of all submitted documents, including medical certificates, must not exceed 180 days. The notification of document acceptance is processed within 45 days, and this service is provided free of charge. A temporary residence permit can be issued for a period of up to ten years, or less if the passport's validity expires sooner.

Stages of obtaining a residence permit and citizenship

The procedure for obtaining a residence permit, permanent residency, and citizenship in Kazakhstan consists of the following stages:

• Temporary registration;
• Obtaining a temporary residence permit;
• Issuance of a residence permit;
• Obtaining citizenship.

For citizens of EAEU countries, this process is simplified: they only need to go through three stages:

• Temporary registration;
• Issuance of a residence permit;
• Obtaining citizenship.

Before applying for a residence permit, it is essential to register and obtain a temporary stay permit in Kazakhstan. Registration and obtaining the temporary stay permit can be done at government institutions, such as public service centers (PSC) or the migration police.

Opening a bank account for foreigners

After that, a foreigner needs to open a bank account, for which it is necessary to obtain a 12-digit individual identification number, known as IIN. This identification number is important for foreigners and is used in various situations:

• It is a necessary condition for opening an account in Kazakhstani banks.
• Necessary if a foreign individual receives income from Kazakhstan.
• For the purchase of real estate or vehicles that are subject to taxation in the country.
• When appointing foreign citizens to managerial positions in organizations registered as residents of Kazakhstan.
• It is also needed for appointments to managerial positions in the branches of foreign companies.

Ways to obtain an Individual Identification Number (IIN)

You can obtain an Individual Identification Number (IIN) in two ways: through the Public Service Centers (PSC) at your place of residence or online. To apply online, you need to either have an electronic digital signature (EDS) or be registered in the "mobile citizens" system to receive an SMS code. When applying for an IIN at the PSC, you must provide the following documents:

• Application for obtaining an Individual Identification Number (IIN).
• Certificate of temporary residence in the country.
• Identity document.

If the ID does not have the last name, first name, patronymic, or place of birth in Cyrillic or Latin script, notarized copies of the ID and copies of the migration card and registration will be required. This service is provided free of charge, and the processing time is one business day.

The process of opening an account

After the time has passed, once the foreigner provides their Individual Identification Number (IIN), a valid passport, documents confirming the legality of their stay in Kazakhstan, and a phone number from a Kazakhstani operator, the bank will open an account within a short period—approximately half an hour. After the account is opened, the applicant undergoes a medical examination. As soon as the results are ready, the complete set of documents is submitted to the local internal affairs authorities at the place of residence.

Obtaining a residence permit

Foreigners who have reached the age of 16 can apply for a residence permit. In case of a positive decision, the following documents must be submitted to the Public Service Center:

• Receipt for payment of the state duty (0.2 MRP).
• A photo sized 35x45 mm.
• Valid foreign passport.

An identification card confirming the right to reside in Kazakhstan is issued no later than 17 working days. There is also an option to receive it in a shorter time frame – within seven working days. After obtaining this card, a foreign citizen gains the right to reside in Kazakhstan for a period of up to ten years. It is important to note that during the process of obtaining a new residence permit, the status of permanent resident remains unchanged.

Extension of residence permit

As for the extension of the residence permit, it should be done every ten years. Applications for extension must be submitted to the internal affairs authorities at the place of residence at least one month before the expiration of the permit, and in case of its loss – within three days.

Launch of the Soyuz rocket

The launch of the Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, located in Kazakhstan, highlights the nation's significant achievements in space exploration.

The procedure for obtaining a residence permit

The process of changing the document flow related to residence permits (RP) is similar to the procedure for initially obtaining this status. According to established regulations,The residence permit can be revoked.if a foreign citizen spends more than 183 days outside of Kazakhstan during a calendar year.

Permanent residence

Foreigners who have lived in Kazakhstan continuously for three years and already have a residence permit can apply forpermanent residence (PR)The main thing is that the applicant has a stable and legal source of income, as well as the ability to confirm the availability of living space, whether it is owned property or a rented apartment.

Moreover, it is essential to comply with all legal requirements and avoid attracting the attention of law enforcement agencies in Kazakhstan.

Necessary documents for obtaining permanent residency

To obtain permanent residency, various documents will be required. These include:

• Valid residence permit card
• Certificate of employment
• Medical certificate
• Filled out questionnaire
• Autobiography
• Two photos

Typically, the time required to process a request takes about one month.

Obtaining citizenship

Obtaining citizenship of the Republic of Kazakhstan is possible through various means:

• By right of birth
• For citizens who have lived in the country for the past five years
• For spouses of Kazakhstani citizens who have been married for more than three years
• For foreign citizens who have close relatives who are citizens of Kazakhstan and reside in the country.

Simplified procedure for CIS citizens

Citizens of Russia, Belarus, and Kyrgyzstan can take advantage ofsimplified procedure for obtaining citizenshipThis procedure is available regardless of the length of residence in Kazakhstan.

To contact the migration police at your place of residence, you will need to present the following documents:

• Identity document (passport)
• A standard application form
• A justified appeal for citizenship to the president
• Notarized renunciation of previous citizenship
• Commitment to comply with the laws of Kazakhstan on citizenship
• Notarized copies of birth and marriage certificates
• Certificate of the right to simplified citizenship acquisition
• Document of payment for the state duty

Important aspects

It is important to note that the Republic of Kazakhstan does not allow dual citizenship.The processing time for submitted documentscan last up to six months.

Regarding the cost of services for obtaining a residence permit, it should be emphasized that the process of obtaining a residence permit is characterized by itstransparency and simplicityThis implies the absence of the need to turn to intermediaries. This aspect significantly simplifies the task of legally obtaining status for foreign citizens seeking to live and work in the country.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to note that Kazakhstan is a unique country with a rich cultural heritage and a dynamically developing economy. The attraction of foreign citizens, including Russians and Ukrainians, has become a significant factor in the economic growth and cultural consolidation of the region. The visa-free regime for citizens of many countries facilitates travel and contributes to an increase in tourist flows; however, it is important to consider the requirements and rules of migration to avoid potential issues.

Advantages for foreign citizens

Since gaining independence, Kazakhstan has made significant strides in improving conditions for foreign citizens wishing to live and work in its territory. The simplified procedure for obtaining a residence permit, the possibility of acquiring citizenship, and the temporary residence program are just a few of the advantages the country offers.

• Simplified procedure for obtaining a residence permit
• Possibility of obtaining citizenship
• Temporary residence program

All of this creates additional incentives for migration and an increase in the number of specialists in various fields.

Cultural exchange

It is important to note that attracting foreign labor not only contributes to economic development but also to cultural exchange. Kazakhstan is becoming a multicultural country where people of different nationalities can coexist, enriching each other with their traditions and customs. All of this makes the country attractive for living and working.

The necessity of knowing the rules

Nevertheless, it is essential to pay attention to all the details, from the documents required for obtaining a residence permit to the possible reasons for its denial. These aspects are important to ensure that the immigration process goes smoothly and without complications.

Conclusion

Thus, Kazakhstan offers numerous opportunities for foreign citizens who wish to start a new life, develop their careers, or simply see a beautiful country. It is important to stay informed about current regulations and be prepared for the requirements that may arise during the documentation process. I hope this article has been helpful and will assist you in making the right decision regarding your move to Kazakhstan.