Kazakhstan introduces electronic permit requirement for visa-free travelers

Kazakhstan's government has approved new rules for the entry, stay and exit of foreign citizens. Citizens of visa-free countries, including Kyrgyzstan, will need an electronic permit issued through the QazETA platform. The system will be introduced in stages from 1 November 2026, and from 1 July 2027 a missing permit will be grounds for refusal of entry.

Permits will be issued free of charge by Kazakhstan's Interior Ministry in coordination with national security bodies. Applicants must apply through QazETA 72 hours before crossing the border and specify their passport or other travel document. Holding a permit does not guarantee entry, as border guards retain the right to refuse foreigners.

Rollout begins on 1 November 2026 at Aktau airport and selected road checkpoints, with Astana and Almaty airports added on 1 January 2027 and all other crossings on 1 March 2027. Citizens arriving on a Kazakhstan visa, diplomats and children under 16 are exempt from the temporary residence permit requirement.