Kazakhstan introduces electronic entry permits at first checkpoints

At the first stage, the system became operational at Aktau International Airport, as well as at the automobile checkpoints "Urlyutobe" in Pavlodar region on the border with Russia, "Aukhatty" in Zhambyl region, "Atameken" in Turkistan region, and "Nurly Zhol" in Zhetysu region. From January 1, 2027, it will be extended to the airports of Astana and Almaty, and from March 1, 2027, to all other checkpoints across the state border.

A transition period is in effect until June 30, 2027: entry is permitted without an authorization, but foreigners will be warned at the border that they need to obtain one. From July 1, 2027, the ETA will become mandatory, and without it, entry may be denied. As Podrobno.uz notes, holding the permit itself does not guarantee entry: border guards have the right to deny entry on grounds provided by law.

Registration is free of charge via the QazETA digital platform, and an application must be submitted at least 72 hours prior to entry. A travel passport valid for at least six months, an email address, and an indication of the purpose of the trip are required. The authorization is issued by internal affairs bodies in coordination with national security agencies and is valid for 180 calendar days. At the same time, the length of stay is determined by Kazakhstan's migration rules; citizens of Uzbekistan are allowed to remain there without a visa for up to 90 days.

The requirement applies only to citizens of countries with visa-free entry to Kazakhstan. A total of 29 categories are exempt from it, including children under 16, people over 65, diplomats, holders of a valid Kazakh visa or residence permit, and transit passengers who do not leave the airport transit zone.