The information shown below is just for reference. Since the details may change from time to time, we suggest participants search for the most recent policy before making visa application. 

Visa & Entry Basics

Many foreign citizens can enter Kazakhstan visa-free (i.e., no visa required) for a short stay (often up to 30 days) under the “visa-free” regime. For those who do need a visa (for example: longer stay, work, business beyond meetings, or if their country has no visa‐free agreement), there are procedures to apply via consulate/embassy or via a dedicated e-visa portal. The visa application often requires: a valid passport, a completed application form, recent photo(s), in some cases an “invitation” or “letter of invitation” from Kazakhstan side, payment of consular fee. There is an electronic visa (e-visa) option for certain countries and certain types of travel (tourism, business, medical), which can simplify the process.

Types of Visas

According to official Kazakhstan sources, visas are classified by purpose of stay. Some examples:
※ Diplomatic/service visas (for government officials, diplomats)
※ Investor/business visas (for foreign investment or business activity)
※ Tourist visas
※ Transit visas (for passing through)
※ Visas for education/training/internships
※ Private/visit visas (for visiting relatives/friends etc)

Each category may have different allowed stay periods, single or multiple entry, and validity periods.

Some Key Rules

※ Even for the visa-free regime: check how many days you may stay and whether repeat entries are allowed. For example, U.S. citizens may stay up to 30 days per visit, but cannot exceed 90 days in a 180-day period under certain rules.
※ For e-visas: the entry may be restricted to certain international airports (for example: only via certain airports when using the e-visa).
※ If you stay more than a few days (often more than 5 days) you may be required to register with migration authorities while in Kazakhstan. Failure to do so may lead to fines, complications at exit and future entry.
※ Passport validity, number of blank pages, and “invitation letter” (for some visa types) are often required. E.g., passport must not raise doubts, 2 blank pages, etc.

Practical Tips

※ Before you travel: check the latest visa requirements for your specific country of citizenship — these regimes can change.
※ If you are eligible for visa-free entry and intend to stay only for tourism/short visit, still be aware of the length of stay permitted and that you’ll comply with registration if required.
※ If you will stay for longer, or your purpose is business/work/investment, apply for the appropriate visa category ahead of time (don’t rely on visa-free entry).
※ Make sure your passport is valid for the required period (often beyond your intended stay), has enough blank pages, and you keep copies of your key documents.
※ If you have to register on arrival (if staying more than a set number of days) make sure you know how and when to do it, to avoid fines or issues.
※ If using the e-visa system: ensure you enter via an approved airport/check-point, fill out online form carefully (data must match your passport, invitation info) and print/bring your e-visa.

For more information, please visit: https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-ottawa/press/article/details/5326?directionId=5838&lang=en