Kazakhstan Goes Visa-Free for 90 Countries

Officials in Nur-Sultan have announced the government’s plan to abolish visa requirements for foreign visitors as part of efforts to stimulate international tourism and enhance cross-border investment in the post‑COVID era.

According to the Ministry of Culture and Sports, 90 countries will soon be exempt from visa requirements when visiting Kazakhstan. The full list of eligible countries has yet to be published.

In addition, to streamline the arrival process for international travelers, the government intends to further ease its existing electronic visa (e‑visa) system. First introduced in 2019, the digital process allows applicants to submit their details—name, date of birth, travel purpose—online. Approval typically takes about five days, after which travelers receive a printable e‑Visa to present on arrival. Currently, 140 countries qualify for an e‑visa for tourism, business, or medical purposes.

Straddling Europe and Central Asia, Kazakhstan is rapidly gaining appeal among globetrotters. To simplify entry, the country rolled out its e‑visa program to cut red tape and accelerate border crossings.

The Rise of Tourism in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan has experienced a tourism surge in recent years. Official figures show inbound visits climbed sharply from 4.8 million in 2013 to nearly 9 million in 2018. Europeans rank among the largest contingents visiting this Central Asian nation.

Highlights include the futuristic capital Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana), the Hazret Sultan Grand Mosque, Ile-Alatau National Park, and Lake Balkhash—the second largest freshwater lake in Asia. Together they showcase Kazakhstan’s rich cultural and natural diversities.

Visa Waivers Aimed at Attracting More Tourists

To sustain this growth trajectory, Kazakhstan’s government is introducing visa waivers for selected countries. Most European Union member states no longer require a visa for tourist stays of up to 30 days.

Parallel to that initiative, the country is expanding its versatile e‑visa system, designed to slash administrative hassles and encourage yet more visitors to explore this still‑underrated destination.

E‑Visas: A Smarter, Faster Way to Enter

Saying Goodbye to Embassies and Paperwork

Until recently, securing a Kazakh visa meant lengthy embassy queues, reams of documents (passport copies, ID photos, hotel confirmations, etc.), weeks of waiting, and substantial fees. The new e‑visa eliminates most of those obstacles.

How to Apply for an E‑Visa

Simply fill out an online form on the Kazakh government’s dedicated e‑visa portal. You’ll need to supply personal data (full name, date of birth, nationality) and travel specifics (dates, purpose, accommodation). After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation email and be prompted to pay the visa fee online. Prices currently range from $20 to $60 USD depending on visa type and duration.

Once payment clears, processing takes 3–5 business days. Approved applicants receive their e‑visa as a downloadable PDF that must be printed and presented on arrival.

Why Travelers Are Choosing E‑Visas

The e‑visa delivers clear benefits to international—and especially European—tourists:

• Simplicity: complete the entire process from home, no embassy visit required;

• Speed: approval in 3–5 days instead of weeks;

• Flexibility: easy to adapt to itinerary changes or re-issue should plans shift;

• Savings: generally lower fees than traditional visas despite similar service levels.