Kazakhstan phases in electronic entry permit for foreigners on visa-free trips

New rules on entry and stay for foreigners in Kazakhstan have come into force, requiring an electronic permit for visa-free travel. The new procedure will be introduced in stages.

From 1 November 2026, the requirement applies at Aktau International Airport and at the road checkpoints Urlyutobe in Pavlodar Region, Auhatty in Zhambyl Region, Atameken in Turkistan Region and Nurly Zhol in Zhetysu Region. From 1 January 2027 it extends to the international airports of Astana and Almaty, and from 1 March 2027 to all other checkpoints on the state border.

At these stages, foreigners will be informed of the need to obtain the permit, but entry will not yet be refused for its absence. From 1 July 2027, the lack of an electronic entry permit will be grounds for refusing entry to Kazakhstan.