Deputy Prime Minister — Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva has outlined the key provisions of the Migration Policy Concept until 2030. The document was adopted by the government in December 2025 and defines new approaches to regulating migration processes.
WHAT THE NEW CONCEPT PROVIDES
The Concept is based on a balance between the needs of the economy, the interests of citizens, and issues of national security.
The Minister emphasised that the state is revising its approaches to migration, making the system more transparent and manageable. The priority is the interests of citizens of Kazakhstan. The recruitment of foreign labour is permitted only when there is a genuine shortage of personnel in specific sectors and regions.
HOW MIGRATION CONTROL WILL BE STRENGTHENED
Particular attention is paid to the principle of 'Law and Order'. According to Aida Balayeva, compliance with legislation is mandatory for everyone, regardless of status.
Control over compliance with migration legislation is being strengthened, and liability for violations will apply to both migrants and employers. Security is stated as a mandatory condition at all stages — from entry into the country to departure.
WHAT NEW REQUIREMENTS ARE INTRODUCED FROM 2026
From January 2026, a scoring model for the preliminary selection of foreign citizens, including ethnic Kazakhs, will be introduced in Kazakhstan.
It provides for mandatory testing of knowledge of the state language, a digital questionnaire, checks by competent authorities, and a final interview.
WHAT CONDITIONS ARE ESTABLISHED FOR ORALMANS
A separate procedure is being introduced for ethnic Kazakhs who are eligible for state support. They must obtain the status of oralman and resettle in labour-deficient regions: Akmola Region, Abai Region, Kostanay Region, Pavlodar Region, Atyrau Region, West Kazakhstan Region, East Kazakhstan Region and North Kazakhstan Region.
When included in the regional quota, migrants enter into a social contract for a period of 5 years. If oralmans who have received support leave the region before the end of this period, they are obliged to return the full amount of assistance provided to the state.
AN ALTERNATIVE OPTION FOR MIGRANTS
In addition, the possibility of applying for permanent residence on a general basis is provided — without participation in regional quotas and without receiving state support. In this case, migrants can independently choose their region of residence within the framework of the law.
HOW THE POLICY WILL BE IMPLEMENTED
According to the Minister, the new migration policy will be implemented in stages, taking into account feedback from society, businesses, and regions.
Priority will be given to law-abiding citizens, and the use of digital tools is aimed at reducing the risks of fake documents and 'grey' schemes.