Dear readers,
Starting from 17 November 2024, updated visa issuance rules have come into effect in Kazakhstan, aimed at simplifying the visa process for in-demand specialists and business immigrants1.
Key changes include:
1. Introduction of a new visa category (B9)
Designed for individuals with in-demand professions. Both single-entry and multiple-entry visas are issued for up to 90 calendar days.
To obtain this visa, applicants must submit an application and a copy of their educational diploma corresponding to the list of in-demand professions required for foreigners to obtain permanent residency in the Republic of Kazakhstan (RK) (e.g., professions from the healthcare, natural sciences, engineering, digital development, innovation, creative industries, etc.)2.
2. Introduction of the new Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1)
For individuals with in-demand professions who are traveling to Kazakhstan to obtain a permanent residency.
A single-entry visa is issued for up to one year electronically via the Visa-Migration Portal based on the invitation. A multiple-entry visa for up to one year is issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan based on the application from the Kazakhstan Ministry of Culture and Information and the previously issued single-entry electronic visa.
3. Introduction of the new Neo Nomad Visa (B12-1)
Designed for remote workers with a stable income from foreign sources. This is a multiple-entry visa and is issued for up to one year.
Required documents:
- a bank statement for the past six months confirming a stable monthly income exceeding USD 3 000;
- a tax declaration issued by the competent authority in the applicant’s country of citizenship;
- a certificate of no criminal record issued by the authorized body in the applicant's country of citizenship or residence;
- medical insurance covering the requested visa validity period.
4. Reduction in the list of documents required for the business visa (C5)
The list of required documents has been simplified to:
- medical insurance;
- a certificate of no criminal record issued by the authorized body in the applicant's country of citizenship or residence.
Two documents have been excluded from the requirements:
- a medical certificate confirming the absence of diseases that prohibit the entry of foreigners or stateless persons into Kazakhstan;
- a certificate from the authorized body in the applicant's country of citizenship or residence stating the absence of a court-imposed prohibition on engaging in entrepreneurial activities.
These changes aim to enhance Kazakhstan’s attractiveness for foreign specialists and investors.
1 Joint Order of the Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of the RK No. 11-1-4/612 dated October 31, 2024, and the Minister of Internal Affairs of the RK No. 872 dated 31 October 2024, "On Amending the Joint Order of the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the RK No. 11-1-2/555 dated 24 November 2016, and the Minister of Internal Affairs of the RK No. 1100 dated 28 November 2016, 'On Approval of the Rules for Processing Invitations, Approving Invitations for the Entry of Foreigners and Stateless Persons to the RK, Issuing, Annulling, Restoring Visas of the RK, and Extending or Reducing Their Validity Periods”.
2 Annex 2 to the Order of the acting minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the RK's Order No. 134 dated 3 May 2024, "On Amending the Order of the Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the RK No. 49 dated 20 February 2023 “On Approving the List of In-Demand Professions for Foreigners to Obtain Permanent Residence Permits in the RK and the Rules for Its Formation”.