Kazakhstan to introduce mandatory electronic permits for entry from July 2027

The government decree of Kazakhstan dated October 10 comes into force on October 24, 2026. According to the document, foreign citizens arriving under a visa-free regime must submit an application for a permit in the QazETA system at least 72 hours before the trip through a digital platform after passing digital identification. The permit is issued free of charge with a validity period of 180 calendar days, while it does not cancel the existing restrictions on the duration of stay in the country.

The implementation of the system will take place in several stages. From November 1, 2026, checks will begin at Aktau International Airport and at four automobile border crossing points (Urlyutyube, Auhatly, Atameken and Nurly Zhol). From January 1, 2027, the system will be launched at Astana and Almaty airports, and from March 1, 2027, the remaining border crossing points will be connected. Until July 1, 2027, border guards will explain the entry procedure without refusing to cross the border without a document. The requirement will become mandatory from July 1, 2027.

Children under 16 years old, citizens over 65 years old, holders of valid Kazakhstani visas, temporary residence permits or residence permits are exempt from the obligation to obtain a permit. The requirement also does not apply to diplomats, members of official delegations, transit air passengers, crews of aircraft and watercraft, train crews and drivers of international freight and bus routes.