Kazakhstan: Electronic travel authorisation (ETA) introduced

November 10, 2026
Immigration

Kazakhstan is starting a phased rollout of the electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system via the QazETA platform. It covers nationals of countries with a visa-free regime, including EAEU member states.

The transition period will run from 1 November 2026 to 30 June 2027. During this time, obtaining an ETA is recommended but not mandatory. From 1 July 2027, the ETA will become mandatory for all travellers covered by the new regime, except for exempt categories.

What legal act introduces the changes?

Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan Resolution No. 890 of 10 October 2026, amending Government Resolution No. 148 of 21 January 2012.

What are the main changes?

Application procedure: the application is submitted online via the QazETA platform no later than 72 hours before travel.

Validity: the ETA is valid for 180 calendar days. It does not extend the permitted period of stay in Kazakhstan.

Phased implementation:

from 1 November 2026 — at selected border crossing points;
from 1 January 2027 — at the international airports of Astana and Almaty;
from 1 March 2027 — at the remaining border crossing points;
from 1 July 2027 — the ETA becomes mandatory for all travellers covered by the new regime, except for exempt categories.

Who is affected?

Nationals of countries entering Kazakhstan visa-free. The Resolution expressly covers nationals of EAEU member states and of countries with which Kazakhstan has visa-free travel agreements.

Exemption from the ETA depends not on nationality but on the traveller’s status or circumstances. Exempt categories include:

holders of a valid Kazakhstan visa or residence permit;
children under 16;
persons aged 65 or over.

What to pay attention to?

Visa-free entry does not remove the ETA requirement once it becomes mandatory.
A valid ETA does not guarantee admission to Kazakhstan.
ETA validity is not the same as the permitted duration of stay.
Before departure, check the traveller’s nationality, passport and applicable exemptions.