From January 1, 2026, the issuance of the Individual Identification Number (IIN) to foreign nationals through Kazakhstan’s missions abroad has been temporarily suspended, DKNews.kz reports.
This follows the completion of the pilot project.
Additional guidance on IIN procedures will be published on the Embassy website.
At the same time, foreigners will still have access to services.
What comes instead: the eResidency program
Kazakhstan is rolling out the eResidency program — a pilot initiative that gives foreigners and stateless persons access to government and financial services fully online.
Any adult can apply, regardless of country of residence.
The program is implemented within the Astana International Financial Centre and approved by competent authorities. Its goals are to:
- attract foreign investment
- support business and entrepreneurship
- increase budget revenues
- improve public service delivery
What eResidency offers in practice
eResidency becomes a single entry point for interaction with Kazakh government agencies and financial institutions.
Through the platform and the QazETA app, users can:
- pass remote biometric identification
- obtain electronic visas
- register their stay
- manage migration documents
- track their entry and exit from Kazakhstan
Digital status and opportunities
Participants will gain access to:
- a digital ID card with an IIN
- stock markets and crypto exchanges
- a Kazakhstan mobile number via eSIM
- digital signature and insurance services
- opening bank accounts online
- potential tax residency
- acquiring and payment services
In short, Kazakhstan is building a digital gateway for people and businesses worldwide.
Key takeaways
- issuing IINs abroad is temporarily suspended
- updates will appear on the Embassy website
- eResidency unlocks services online
- fewer trips, fewer queues, more digital options
