Kazakhstan Introduces Kazakh Language Exam for Permanent Residency
In Kazakhstan, requirements have been tightened for foreigners who wish to obtain a permanent residence permit (PRP) and a residence permit. From February 13, the country introduced an assessment of the so-called "immigration potential."
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Now, applicants for a PRP must pass a Kazakh language exam at A1 level (elementary). The test will be conducted remotely and will include listening and reading tasks. 70 minutes are allocated for completion. To pass the exam, one must score at least 30% correct answers in each block. Retakes are allowed.
After successfully passing the exam, candidates must fill out a questionnaire on the migration.enbek.kz portal, indicating age, education, language proficiency, work and study experience, professional skills, and health status. The system will automatically assign points – at least 400 points are required to pass this stage. Further interdepartmental verification and an interview are planned.
A written consent from the country of citizenship for permanent emigration or a document confirming deregistration from the place of residence is also required. Lawyers note that this condition causes the most questions, as it is unclear what document will be considered sufficient and in which countries it can be obtained.
The entire assessment procedure, consisting of five stages, takes up to 29 days. After receiving a positive notification, a foreigner can apply for a permanent residence permit. Without it, Kazakh citizenship cannot be obtained.
The new rules affect only those who do not yet have a permanent residence permit. There is no need to take an exam to extend an already issued residence permit. Additional requirements also do not apply to participants of the Digital Nomad Residence program, minors, investors, and representatives of in-demand professions.
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