Residency in Kazakhstan: unlocking a world of opportunities

Securing a Kazakhstan permanent residency opens doors to a wealth of rights and opportunities that significantly enrich the lives and endeavors of foreign nationals within this region. It's not just about receiving legal status; it's about gaining access to a range of benefits designed to enhance your experience and potential in this wonderful country. Let's explore the specific advantages awaiting those who choose to become residents:

• Freedom of movement and exploration: as a resident, you have the freedom to travel throughout Kazakhstan without the need for visas or additional official papers, except in restricted areas. Whether you wish to explore the diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities, or immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of this country, residency provides the flexibility to do so seamlessly.
• Integration and educational opportunities: residents enjoy unrestricted access to Kazakhstan's learning institutions. This access allows you to pursue academic goals, acquire new skills, or enhance existing ones, contributing to personal growth and professional development.
• Quality healthcare access: Residents benefit from access to state-owned healthcare facilities, ensuring prompt and reliable medical care when needed. This accessibility provides peace of mind and supports overall well-being during your stay in Kazakhstan.
• Supportive social welfare: this exciting country offers social welfare support to residents, providing a safety net that promotes stability and a sense of security. This assistance extends to various aspects of life, enhancing the overall quality of living for you and your family.
• Residency in this amazing republic grants you the freedom to engage in both employment and entrepreneurial activities without the complexities of securing additional permits. This flexibility encourages innovation, enhances economic participation, and allows you to contribute actively to Kazakhstan's dynamic professional environment.
• Gateway to regional exploration: strategically located in Central Asia, this country serves as a gateway to explore neighboring countries. Residency facilitates visa-free travel to nearby nations, allowing you to broaden your cultural experiences and expand your regional footprint.

By receiving Kazakhstan resident status, you are not merely acquiring a legal status; you are unlocking a myriad of chances in a nation poised for growth and development. It's an invitation to immerse yourself in a diverse and welcoming society, pursue your aspirations, and build a meaningful future. Whether you are drawn by educational pursuits, entrepreneurial ambitions, or the desire for a secure and enriching lifestyle, the country offers the framework and assistance to help you thrive.

Temporary residents in Kazakhstan enjoy the convenience of crossing borders and returning to the country effortlessly throughout the entire validity period of their residency document, without the requirement of receiving a visa. Residency in this amazing country opens doors to a realm of opportunities, empowering international residents to seamlessly integrate into society, pursue their ambitions, and contribute actively to the nation's development. Embrace the promising prospects that lie ahead and embark on a fulfilling journey in this dynamic and welcoming country.

Perspectives of permanent residency in Kazakhstan

Obtaining permanent residency in Kazakhstan offers foreign nationals a range of important rights and benefits that significantly facilitate their lives and activities there. Here are the key advantages that foreign citizens can enjoy once they obtain permanent residency:

1. Access to various educational institutions.
2. Free movement throughout this region without the need for visas and documents, except for restricted immigrant zones.
3. Access to state-owned medical facilities.
4. Eligibility for state assistance in the social sphere.
5. Permission to work and engage in entrepreneurial activities without requiring special permits.

Ethnic immigrants to the republic also have unique options, including access to paid services at specialized centers. Temporary residents of this region have the right to freely cross the country's borders and return without needing visas for the entire validity period of their residency document.

Grounds for obtaining Permanent Residency in the Republic

To obtain the desired permanent residency in Kazakhstan, several criteria must be met, reflecting modern regulatory standards in the country:

1. Residence justification: applicants should demonstrate a need to reside in this republic for more than three months.
2. Financial Stability and clean criminal record: evidence of financial stability and a clean criminal record are required for residency application.
3. Property ownership or rental: applicants must either own property in this region or reside in the country under a rental agreement.
4. Compliance with regulatory requirements: all necessary documentation must be gathered according to current Kazakhstan regulations.

Foreign students coming to the country for education purposes can obtain a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP). They have the opportunity to study at educational institutions, participate in international exchange programs, and take professional development courses, including language courses. To substantiate their educational goals in the country, incoming students provide documents issued by the educational institution confirming their enrollment or permission from the organization for qualification training. Minor immigrants must obtain consent from their legal representatives to reside in the country. Obtaining a "C9" visa is a mandatory requirement.

Educational centers in this republic issue TRP to students, valid for the duration of their studies (up to twelve months). Immigrants holding temporary residency have the chance to apply for permanent residency in the future, which allows them to take advantage of an expedited procedure for getting citizenship in the country.

Kazakhstan offers temporary residency permits for family reunification to certain groups of relatives of its citizens who have resided in the country for at least 24 months, including:

• Spouses who have been married to a resident for at least three years.
• Unmarried minor children (including adopted ones) under the care of a resident or dependent on them for support.
• Family members in need of financial assistance from a resident/citizen of the country.
• Incapacitated parents who are financially dependent on a resident.
• Adult children with health conditions that require continuous financial support.

Temporary residence permits in Kazakhstan are initially issued for one year and can be renewed annually for the same duration. For non-citizens applying, it's crucial to note that the validity period of the residence permit is tied to the validity of the document held by the inviting party. Immigrants entering the country must obtain a "C2" visa type.

By meeting these criteria and understanding the specific grounds for residency, individuals can navigate the process effectively, ensuring compliance with Kazakhstani laws while benefiting from the privileges and opportunities residency offers in this diverse and welcoming nation.

The "C5" visa offers entrepreneurs from other countries the chance to stay in the republic for a limited period with specific purposes. Within 60 days of arrival in the region, individuals must launch a startup or join as partners in an existing enterprise within the country. Immigrants seeking to establish a comprehensive documentation package must provide company registration documents. The maximum duration of temporary residence based on different professional activities is 24 months, with the option for renewal contingent upon continued business operations in the republic.

Obtaining temporary residency through business establishment in the country offers several significant advantages:

• Market expansion opportunity: entrepreneurs can expand their product and service markets on an international scale.
• Potential for stable high profits: There are no minimum investment requirements for residency status, offering the potential for consistently high profits.
• Choice of stable economic environment: entrepreneurs can choose a country with a stable economic situation and favorable tax conditions for relocation.
• Right to invite family members: after completing the temporary residency process, entrepreneurs have the right to invite family members to join them.
• Straightforward legalization process: the procedure for subsequent legalization of residency in Kazakhstan is straightforward.

These benefits underscore the attractiveness of the country as a destination for entrepreneurs looking to establish or expand their business ventures, providing a supportive environment with clear pathways for legal residence and growth.

Individuals seeking better professional opportunities in Kazakhstan are provided the chance to apply for a Permanent Residence Permit (PRP). If eligible, the residency permit remains valid throughout the employment contract but is not extendable beyond 36 months. Candidates need to possess the relevant education and work experience necessary to fulfill job responsibilities. Foreign citizens require one of the following visas to stay in Kazakhstan:

• "C3" Visa: Intended for individuals who have already secured employment with a local employer.
• "C4" Visa: Issued to immigrants arriving for self-employment in high-demand sectors.
• "C6" Kazakhstan Visa: Designed for employees.

To compile their basic dossier, immigrants provide any of the following documents:

• Special work permit for foreign employees issued by the employer.
• Papers demonstrating the applicant's professional skills.
• Permission documentation for employment (official papers required for legal employment of a foreign citizen).
• Employment contract.

These documents substantiate the applicant's eligibility for employment-based residency in Kazakhstan, ensuring compliance with local laws and facilitating integration into the country's workforce.

Individuals who provide voluntary assistance, foreigners under international agreements for grants and humanitarian support, as well as those applying for refugee status or seeking political asylum, have the great possibility to apply for residency in Kazakhstan due to life circumstances requiring protection.

Volunteers must hold a "C8" visa to legally stay within the country, while other mentioned applicants do not require special entry permits. The maximum duration of temporary residency is 1 year, but it can be extended under the original conditions. To compile a comprehensive document package, applicants must provide one of the following official papers:

• Document of charitable activity.
• Inter-governmental agreement.
• Official document certifying the status of a person who has been forced to leave their country and has obtained asylum in another country.
• Document confirming the granting of political asylum.

These provisions ensure that individuals with humanitarian or political motives can legally reside in the country, providing them with a secure environment and necessary support in their respective situations.

Other reasons

There are numerous other reasons why individuals can obtain a residency permit in Kazakhstan:

1. Property acquisition: foreign people who purchase real estate in the country are eligible to apply for residency. This pathway encourages investment in the local property market and fosters economic ties.
2. Medical purposes: foreigners arriving in Kazakhstan with a "C12" visa for medical reasons, such as treatment, diagnostics, or accompanying family members who are Kazakhstani citizens or residents for medical care, are eligible for residency. This residency is limited to six months. Applicants must supplement their main dossier with documents confirming the necessity of medical treatment. Accompanying persons must provide a certificate certifying that the patient requires assistance for travel to the country due to various health reasons.
3. Extraordinary achievements: individuals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the country's history or culture may qualify for residency based on their exceptional achievements.
4. Official activities: diplomats or representatives of international organizations working in the country are eligible for residency based on their official duties. This ensures smooth diplomatic relations and international cooperation.
5. Scientific research: researchers engaged in scientific projects in Kazakhstan can obtain residency to facilitate their work and collaborations with local institutions. This promotes knowledge exchange and advances in various fields of study.
6. Religious activities: Visitors entering the country to fulfill religious obligations must obtain a "C7" visa. Their document package should include a registration or re-registration statement as a missionary, approval from the religious mission, a written invitation from the religious organization, a copy of the organization's charter where they intend to work, as well as literature and other materials necessary for their activities. Additionally, a certified positive expert conclusion on religious studies (if required) and confirmation of registration of the relevant religious organization outside the country are also necessary.

Each of these pathways has unique conditions and requirements that are crucial to consider when deciding to apply for residency in Kazakhstan. These provisions cater to diverse needs and purposes, ensuring a comprehensive framework for legal residence in the country.

Investment visa policy of Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's investment visa policy offers significant opportunities for foreign investors and entrepreneurs looking to engage in investment or entrepreneurial activities within this country. Under this policy, investors can apply for a multiple-entry visa category "a5," granting them the right to enter the country to pursue their investment projects. The "a5" visa can either be single-entry with a stay of up to 90 days or multiple-entry with a stay of up to 36 months.

To qualify for such a visa, individuals must engage in specific investment activities, such as investing in funds registered on the Astana Stock Exchange, acquiring securities traded on the exchange, or purchasing real estate within the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). Participants in the program may also consider registering as tax residents of Kazakhstan and benefiting from tax exemptions on income earned abroad.

So, AIFC plays a pivotal role in this strategy, offering a unique infrastructure for securities trading, asset management, innovative FinTech, and private banking services. AIFC also provides special tax conditions for residents, including exemption from corporate income tax, making it an attractive destination for international investors seeking to diversify their portfolios and expand their presence in the region.

Kazakhstan's investment visa policy serves not only as a tool for attracting capital but also as a key element of the country's economic development strategy in the global competitive landscape.

The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) stands out as a unique system in its region, providing broad access to significant financial resources, services, and assets that generate income. Established on precedential law and protected by Kazakhstan's Constitutional Law, the AIFC serves as a pivotal hub of regional business and financial activity, bridging economies across Asia and Europe. It focuses on several key areas:

• Developing modern infrastructure for securities trading, attracting investments, and stimulating economic growth.
• Offering high-quality asset management services for institutional and private investors.
• Implementing FinTech innovations.
• Providing private banking and environmentally sustainable finance solutions.

Officially launched on July 5, 2018, the Astana International Financial Centre is equipped with innovative facilities and advanced technologies, offering opportunities to participate in its investment residency program. A key feature of this program is its tax privileges, with AIFC investors required to pay tax only on local income, thus avoiding global taxation.

Steps to get residency in Kazakhstan

When undertaking the process to obtain residency in the country, you must follow several mandatory steps:

1. Registration upon arrival in this country is also a mandatory step. To complete all formalities upon arrival in the country, immigrants have 3 working days to notify the state authorities of their visit. Registration can be done by visiting the migration office in person or through official websites like gov.kz and vmp.gov.kz.
2. For those needing a visa to enter the country, the immigration process begins with applying at the relevant diplomatic mission. The specific mission to apply at depends on the purpose of obtaining immigration status. However, citizens of some countries are allowed visa-free entry for periods ranging from 1 to 3 months.
3. Obtaining an Individual Identification Number is also a mandatory step. People are provided the opportunity to apply in two ways: by personally visiting the nearest "Government for Citizens" office or remotely through the unified electronic portal of state services gov.kz.
4. Visiting the nearest police station or "Government for Citizens" center is a mandatory requirement for immigrants applying for temporary residency in the country. When applying in person, it is crucial to visit state authorities again to obtain identification. Using the online service to submit applications for temporary residence, identification is available in the account section.

These steps allow you to legally reside in the country by the established procedure for obtaining residency.

Interesting guide and list of needed documents

This full-of-possibilities country is well-known for being the fastest-growing economy in Central Asia. Since 2000, the country's economy has more than quadrupled due to the extraction of natural resources, especially oil and gas. The local government has actively pursued economic diversification policies aimed at developing non-resource sectors such as transport and logistics, tourism, agriculture, information technology, and manufacturing. This great country has a favorable investment climate with developed infrastructure to attract foreign investment. Several international companies are already successfully operating in the Kazakh market. It is not surprising that many consider this country a wonderful place of residence. Requirements for the document package for applying for temporary residency in the country for foreign citizens:

1. Completed application for temporary residency. It serves as the lawful basis for applying for residency.
2. A special document providing medical coverage during a stay in this country.
3. Papers substantiating immigration purposes (e.g., employment confirmation, educational documents), which serve as the reasons for staying in the country.
4. Notification of crossing the border of the country. It serves as a document of registration with the state authorities upon arrival in the country.
5. Document of financial capability.
6. An official certificate of no criminal record issued by the authorized institution in the applicant's country of citizenship or PR.
7. Proof of payment of fees prescribed by the government.

What else do you need to get a chance to live in this hospitable country? Additional steps and considerations:

1. Document of no criminal record and departure sheet or consent of the state.
2. Copies of documents: given that residency is granted for the duration of the passport's validity, it's recommended to renew your passport if it expires within a few years.
3. Permanent Registration/Residence Address:
   • Notarized consent from the homeowner for PR (for natives, repatriates, and family reunification) and/or a lease agreement (a lease agreement can be registered without compensation, if applicable), notarized.
   • Form-2 (certificate of real estate ownership) and Form-6 (certificate of absence of encumbrance on real estate).
   • Copy of homeowner's identification.
   • Birth certificate of the applicant.
   • Marriage registration/termination certificate, passport/identity card of the spouse, birth certificate of children.
   • Identification of close relatives of citizens of Kazakhstan and so on.
4. Four photos: take four photos in any nearest photo shop with a size of 3.5 by 4.5 cm, on a light background, matte.
5. Application form
6. The Medical Certificate Form 028u, issued by the Medical Commission, verifies that the individual does not have any diseases that would prevent foreigners and stateless persons from entering this country.
   • Mental disorders.
   • Tuberculosis.
   • Leprosy (Hansen's disease).
   • Drug addiction.
   • Infections primarily transmitted sexually (STIs) - syphilis, venereal lymphogranuloma (donovanosis), and chancroid.
   • Acute infectious diseases (except acute respiratory viral infections and influenza).
7. Special application form for issuance of a residence permit in Kazakhstan (application form filled out by hand or using technical means (typewriters, computers), without abbreviations, acronyms, corrections, and strikeouts).
8. State duty Payment of state duty 4 MRP (13,800 tenge), (1 MRP = 3,450 tenge) is made at any second-level bank branch in the country.

It is crucial to note that all documents obtained outside Kazakhstan or Russia require translation into Kazakh or Russian and legalization (notarization or apostille). The entire process, including obtaining RPP and residency, takes up to 3 months.

Costs to obtain temporary residency

Expenses to obtain temporary residency in Kazakhstan and fees set by the government must be paid. Below are all expenses related to obtaining temporary residency:

• Single entry visa - USD 80.
• For a multiple entry visa, you need to choose the desired duration and pay the corresponding fee - $200-USD 100.
• The state does not charge a fee for processing permanent residency.

Acquiring a Permanent Residency Permit in Kazakhstan

All individuals must obtain a Permanent Residency Permit (PRP) in the Republic as the first step towards obtaining a long-term residency permit (residency for 10+ years). You are required to submit a specific set of documents to the Migration Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. This list of official papers required includes:

• Certificate of financial stability.
• Special application form for permanent residency in the republic.
• Passport/identity card valid for at least the next 6 months.
• Legally certified consent from the children aged 14-18 for their PR in the country.
• Original certificate of good conduct (or equivalent document) issued in your country of citizenship or permanent residence, with a special validity period of no less than six months.
• Legally executed contract demonstrating financial stability.
• Official medical certificate confirming the absence of pathologies that would hinder entry into the territory of this country, valid for six months.
• The photograph is sized 35 mm horizontally and 45 mm by vertical dimensions.
• Financial evidence of payment of 20% of the monthly calculation indicator as a state fee.

This process ensures compliance with the requirements for obtaining permanent residency in Kazakhstan.

Receiving Permanent Residence Permit (RPP) in Kazakhstan

Obtaining a Permanent Residence Permit (RPP) is the first step towards establishing yourself in Kazakhstan for the long term. This permit grants residency rights for 10 years or more, paving the way for a stable and fulfilling life in this dynamic nation.

1. Special application form for PR.
2. Passport or identity card valid for at least the next 6 months.
3. Police clearance certificate valid for six months, issued by your home country or country of residence.
4. Certificate of financial solvency.
5. Legally executed consent from children aged 14-18 for their permanent residence.
6. Legally executed contract demonstrating financial stability.
7. Official medical paper confirming the absence of diseases that would prevent entrance into this excellent country, valid for 6 months.
8. The photograph is sized 35 mm by 45 mm.
9. Proof of payment for the state duty, which is twenty percent of the monthly calculation indicator.

Certain categories are exempt from demonstrating commercial capability when applying for citizenship. These include ethnic Kazakhs, former compatriots, and foreign specialists in fields such as IT architecture, aviation engineering, and neurosurgery. These exemptions apply to individuals who qualify for citizenship under simplified official processes and are not required to provide financial documents. To become a citizen of this country under simplified procedures:

• Descendants, spouses, ancestors, and blood relatives who are already citizens of this country.
• People who were citizens of the Belarusian, Kazakh, Kyrgyz SSRs or RSFSR and lived in the country before 1992.

Refusal to Grant Permanent Residence Permit

Foreign nationals, stateless individuals from other countries, or apatrides may be denied a residence permit or have their permit revoked under the following circumstances:

• Unauthorized entrance into the country or involvement in illegal activities in their country of origin.
• Release from prison after residing abroad before sentencing.
• Illegal activities that violate human rights.
• Refusal to provide financial solvency documents, except in specific cases (e.g., individuals from ethnic groups historically linked to Kazakh culture or those eligible for expedited citizenship).
• Repeat violations of foreigner status regulations.
• Incitement of interethnic, interreligious, and spiritual conflicts.
• Attempts to unlawfully seize power in this region.
• Various actions aimed at curtailing the independence and authority of this country.
• Suspicions of involvement in extremist or various terrorist activities (based on materials from operational and investigative activities).
• Failure to serve a sentence for a crime or failure to comply with other legal measures (e.g., probation).
• Submission of falsified documentation or failure to submit required needed within specified deadlines.
• Failure to provide fingerprints.
• Deportation from the country within the last 5 years.
• Abuse of lawful rights and freedoms of residents of this country.
• The total length of time spent outside the territory within any given year from the date of issuance of the temporary residence permit is restricted to 182 days.
• Court annulment of a marriage with a citizen (if the basis for temporary residence is a registered marriage).
• Application of administrative measures for different violations of migration, tax, and labor laws.
• Threat to national safety.
• Detection of infections preventing entry into the region.
• Exclusion from citizenship according to legal norms.

What to do if problems arise? If your application for this RP is denied, you have the right to challenge this decision according to the actual law. You also can file an appeal to ensure your case is reviewed and reconsidered. If you need to extend your residence permit in this republic, you have the convenience of completing the necessary formalities online. This online process simplifies the extension procedure, making it easier and more accessible.

Features of obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit in the Republic

This important procedure of obtaining temporary resident status in Kazakhstan offers both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, one significant benefit is the ability to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) online, which streamlines the process by eliminating the need for personal visits to government offices. This digital application process ensures swift handling, often with approvals granted within a single working day. Additionally, applicants can conveniently apply for RP for all family members simultaneously, simplifying the procedure for those moving with their families.

Moreover, the online system is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, providing clear guidelines and support throughout the application process. This accessibility is particularly beneficial for those who are unfamiliar with the local administrative procedures. The streamlined process saves time and reduces the stress often associated with bureaucratic formalities.

Despite these challenges, the advantages of the TRP process in Kazakhstan make it a viable option for many seeking temporary residency. The convenience of online applications, the ability to include family members in a single application, and the use of Russian for documentation all contribute to a more efficient and less cumbersome experience for applicants.

Obtaining citizenship in Kazakhstan

It can be an intricate process, but it is certainly possible for those who meet the requirements. There are two primary pathways to becoming a citizen of this republic: by birth or through naturalization.

Citizenship by birth is straightforward. If you are born to at least one parent who is a Kazakhstani citizen, you automatically acquire citizenship. This applies regardless of where the birth takes place, whether within Kazakhstan or abroad.

For those not born to Kazakhstani parents, naturalization is the common route to citizenship. Here are the key steps and needs involved in this process:

1. Residency requirement: you should have legally resided in the country for at least five years. This residency period can be reduced to 36 months if you marry a Kazakhstani citizen.
2. Special conditions: there are specific provisions for certain groups, including ethnic Kazakhs, individuals who have suffered political repression, their descendants, and other specified applicant categories. These groups may benefit from more streamlined processes or reduced residency requirements.
3. Application process: foreigners seeking Kazakhstani citizenship must submit their applications directly to Kazakhstan’s President. This necessary process involves providing comprehensive documentation, including proof of residency, background checks, and other personal details.
4. Language and integration: applicants must demonstrate a basic knowledge of the local language and an understanding of Kazakhstani culture and laws. This is often assessed through a formal examination.

Kazakhstan does not recognize dual citizenship. If you obtain Kazakhstani citizenship, you are required to renounce your previous citizenship(s). This is an important consideration for those who hold citizenship in countries that also do not allow dual citizenship.

While the process of obtaining Kazakhstani citizenship involves several steps and adherence to specific requirements, the benefits it offers can be substantial. Whether through birth or naturalization, becoming a citizen of Kazakhstan opens up numerous opportunities and advantages, making it a worthwhile pursuit for those who qualify.

Welcome to Kazakhstan

Securing a residence permit in Kazakhstan marks a pivotal milestone for international residents aiming to solidify their legal standing in the nation. While the procedure for applying for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) demands meticulous preparation and adherence to all required formalities, the availability of online application options and adaptable terms enhances its accessibility and convenience.

We stand prepared to extend our guidance and proficiency in navigating the TRP acquisition process within this region. Our objective is to deliver professional assistance throughout every phase, ensuring assurance in accomplishing your objectives.

Collaborating with our team will simplify the complexities of document management and ensure you secure the most advantageous conditions for obtaining and using a TRP in Kazakhstan. We are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.