Belarusians will need to request a pass three days in advance to enter Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan will introduce electronic entry permits for citizens of approximately 60 countries, including EAEU partners — Belarus, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia. The new entry procedure was approved by the Government of Kazakhstan on October 10, 2026, reports The Moscow Times.
Checkpoint on the border with Kazakhstan
From July 1, 2027, foreigners entering Kazakhstan without a visa will need to apply for an electronic permit through a digital platform no later than 72 hours before entry. The processing will be free of charge. The permit will be issued after coordination with national security agencies. It will be valid for 180 days and will allow multiple entries into the country during this period.
The new rules will be introduced in stages. From November 1, 2026, they are planned to be applied at Aktau Airport and at four road checkpoints on the border with Russia. From January 1, 2027, permits will be required at Astana and Almaty airports, and from March 1, at all checkpoints across the state border.
Until July 2027, the absence of an electronic permit will not be a reason for refusal of entry. After this date, its presence will become mandatory.
Previously, in September, a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia indicated that electronic entry permits to Kazakhstan might become paid, and they were planned to be introduced as early as November 2026. However, the procedure finally approved by the Government of Kazakhstan provides for free processing and a gradual introduction of new requirements.
Last year, Kazakhstan expressed dissatisfaction with Russia's requirement for foreigners, including citizens of visa-free countries, to submit entry applications in advance via the ruID application — no less than three days prior. Kazakh authorities then promised to respond with reciprocal measures.