Kazakhstan to require electronic entry permit for visa-free arrivals from 24 October

Kazakhstan will require foreigners arriving without visas to obtain an electronic entry permit from 24 October, under updated rules approved by a government decree dated 10 October. The document was first published on 14 October and takes effect ten days after that date. The requirement covers citizens of Eurasian Economic Union member states and countries with which Kazakhstan has visa-free travel agreements.

The permit must be obtained through the Qazeta.kz digital platform at least 72 hours before arrival, and applicants must complete digital identification. It is free of charge and valid for 180 calendar days. Visa-free travellers may generally stay up to 30 days per entry and up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Children under 16, people aged 65 and over, and holders of valid Kazakh visas or residence permits are exempt.

Implementation will be phased. From 1 November, permits will be checked at Aktau airport and at four road checkpoints. From 1 January 2027 the requirement extends to Astana and Almaty airports, and from 1 March to all other checkpoints. From 1 July 2027 obtaining the permit becomes mandatory, and its absence will be grounds for refusing entry.