ASTANA - Kazakhstan is preparing a large-scale migration policy reform, which includes updating the visa system and creating new conditions to attract investors, IT specialists, and qualified personnel, Kazinform reports.
According to government plans, new visa categories will be introduced in the country by the end of 2026. These include business visas for investors and board members, skilled worker visas for specialists in science, medicine, and culture, and for graduates of leading foreign universities. In addition, temporary worker visas will be introduced for participants in investment projects.
For IT specialists, the authorities intend to reduce the processing time for the Altyn investor visa to approximately one month.
Altyn visa holders will be able to use government services equally with Kazakhstani citizens, receive a digital resident ID, and enjoy a number of tax benefits. Specifically, they will be exempt from income, property, and land taxes, as well as from the universal income declaration requirement. At the same time, Kazakhstan plans to introduce automatic recognition of diplomas from leading foreign universities without the need for nostrification.
As part of the digitalization of migration services, a unified QazETA platform will be launched with an e-Residency module, allowing for remote application submission using a one-stop shop. The e-Residency Invest program will enable e-residents to invest in projects in Kazakhstan, including through the Astana International Financial Center.
The authorities also intend to reduce the minimum period of stay for obtaining tax residency at the Astana International Financial Center from 90 to 30 days.
In Astana and Almaty, zones with mandatory English-language service in healthcare, education, police, and public utilities are planned. In addition, Almaty plans to open the Almaty AI Hub, a center for the development of artificial intelligence projects.
The National Bank of Kazakhstan has been instructed to develop special payment solutions for new residents within the regulatory sandbox.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
May 21, 2026