Kazakhstan: new rules for expats
Starting September 1, 2025, Kazakhstan has introduced changes to the rules for obtaining permits to hire foreign workers.Regulation introducing the changes:
Order No. 93 of the Acting Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan, dated March 28, 2025.
Key changes:
- The requirement to search for local candidates on the labor market has been reinstated. Employers must post the vacancy on the enbek.kz portal at least 15 days before applying for a work permit.
- Labor localization requirements will now apply to small businesses with more than 20 employees. Previously, all small businesses were exempt.
- Applications for issuance or renewal of permits can be submitted both via the e-government portal and the new migration.enbek.kz portal.
- Employers must ensure that data on employment contracts with foreign workers, as well as letters or agreements on intra-corporate transfers, are entered into the Unified Labor Contracts Accounting System (ESUTD) and that foreign employees obtain an Individual Identification Number (IIN).
Who is affected:
Employers applying for permits to hire foreign workers.