Kazakhstan introduces electronic entry permit requirement for Kyrgyzstan citizens

The Kazakh government has approved rules governing the entry, stay and exit of foreigners. Under the decree, citizens of countries with which Kazakhstan has a visa-free regime, including members of the Eurasian Economic Union such as Kyrgyzstan, will need an electronic entry permit. The permit will be issued free of charge by the internal affairs authorities in agreement with national security bodies.

Applications must be submitted through the QazETA digital platform no later than 72 hours before the planned entry date, and applicants must complete identification or authentication. Entry and exit must take place through international and passenger border crossings, using the passport or equivalent document specified in the platform. Border guards may still refuse entry to a foreigner even if they hold a permit.

The requirement will be introduced in stages. From 1 November 2026 it applies at Aktau airport and the Urlyutobe, Aukhatty, Atameken and Nurly Zhol road checkpoints. From 1 January 2027 it extends to Astana and Almaty airports, and from 1 March 2027 to all other border checkpoints. From 1 July 2027, lack of a permit will be grounds for refusing entry. The decree takes effect on 24 October.