Kazakhstan Plans to End Social Benefits for Wealthy Citizens

The Kazakh government plans to end social benefits for wealthy citizens, a move expected to save 700 billion tenge in 2027 and almost 2.5 trillion tenge over three years. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov said that shifting to needs-based payments would end the unfairness of wealthy and low-income families receiving the same support. The Ministry of Labour said about 1.38 million households, or 21% of recipients, will lose benefits, including those with incomes above 305,000 tenge per person per month who own large or medium businesses, several properties or premium cars.

From 1 January 2027, unemployed mothers from wealthy families will lose childcare benefits until their child turns one and a half. Large-family mothers who are pensioners, people with disabilities and orphans will not be affected by the new rules. So far, more than 200 wealthy Kazakhs have voluntarily waived benefits through a new service in the eGov Mobile app.

Parliament criticised the draft 2027–2029 budget for its minimal financial safety cushion and a deficit of 4.6 trillion tenge.