Kazakhstan Expands Migration Control
Kazakhstan is implementing a series of reforms to strengthen migration control and improve transparency in the movement of foreign nationals. These measures include legal, digital, and procedural updates, many of which are expected to take full effect by the end of 2025.
1. Digital Monitoring with AI
A national-level monitoring system powered by artificial intelligence is being introduced to track the presence, purpose, legality, and duration of stay for foreign nationals in real time. This project will be fully operational by the end of the year.
2. Stricter Registration Requirements
A new law signed on July 17, 2025, requires foreign nationals to register with the authorities if they plan to stay in Kazakhstan for over 30 days. The Ministry of Internal Affairs is also authorized to deny invitations to individuals from designated “migration risk” countries. Administrative penalties for violations of registration rules are under review for inclusion in the Code of Administrative Offenses.
3. Oversight of Internal Migration
Authorities are actively targeting fictitious registrations, commonly referred to as “rubber apartments,” where individuals are registered but do not reside. Property owners can now be held legally accountable under Article 493 for such violations.
4. Passport Security Upgrades
Kazakhstan’s national passport, which allows visa-free travel to 43 countries, will receive enhanced security features. Planned improvements include microtext of the holder’s name embedded in the photo zone, aligning the passport with the latest international standards.
These efforts reflect the government’s broader strategy to balance ease of movement with national security and data integrity.