From 10 April 2026, Kazakhstan has introduced additional measures for accepting foreign nationals for permanent residence. At the same time, a simplified entry procedure remains in place for investors and sought-after specialists, aimed at attracting talent and developing the economy.
WHAT HAS CHANGED
According to Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva, the new measures concern the regulation of accepting foreign nationals who wish to obtain permanent residence in Kazakhstan.
She emphasised that the changes are linked to the objectives of sustainable socio-economic development of the country and improving the quality of human capital.
WHO RETAINS SIMPLIFIED ENTRY
For investors, separate categories of visas continue to apply. These are provided for heads and participants of investment projects, as well as members of their families.
As noted, this arrangement allows investors to enter Kazakhstan’s economy in a simplified manner, develop businesses, and create new jobs.
WHICH SPECIALISTS REMAIN A PRIORITY
For specialists with in-demand professions, special visas are also available, granting the right to obtain permanent residence. The current list includes 51 professions, among them:
- neurosurgeons and haematologists;
- process engineers in the pharmaceutical industry;
- bacteriologists;
- graphic animation technicians.
The list is not permanent and is updated according to economic needs in consultation with relevant government bodies.
The next update to the list is planned as part of the implementation of the migration policy concept until 2030. It is intended to be completed by the end of this year.
CONTEXT
Earlier, Aida Balayeva explained the provisions of the Migration Policy Concept until 2030, adopted by the government in December 2025. The document provides a balance between the needs of the economy, the interests of citizens, and issues of national security.
It was also reported that new approaches would be gradually introduced, along with increased monitoring of compliance with migration legislation and the use of digital tools in the selection of foreign nationals.