Kazakhstan to Implement Mandatory Paid Electronic Entry Permits for Visa Free Foreigners

Kazakhstan will introduce a mandatory paid electronic entry permit, known as the Electronic Travel Authorization or ETA, for citizens of visa free countries including Russia starting November 1. The permit will be issued through the QazETA digital platform and must be requested at least 72 hours before travel. Once issued, the ETA is valid for 180 days and allows for multiple entries.

The rollout will occur in stages. Starting November 1, the permit is required for those arriving by plane. On November 15, the requirement extends to those entering by car or bus through borders with countries outside the Eurasian Economic Union, such as China, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. On November 30, it will apply to road crossings at internal Eurasian Economic Union borders, including those with Russia and Kyrgyzstan. Finally, on December 15, the permit will be mandatory for travelers arriving by train or sea.

From August 25 to November 1, the system will operate in a test mode. During this period, foreigners may still enter without a permit, although border guards will notify them that one will be required for future visits. Regarding cost, one source reports the permit will cost 3,900 tenge, approximately 7 euros, if obtained via QazETA, while applying at the border will cost double that amount. Another source notes that the specific sum is still being finalized.

Kazakhstan has been a popular destination for Russians fleeing the country following the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent mobilization. While Russians can currently enter without a visa, they must obtain a temporary residence permit if they stay longer than 90 days within a six month period.