Kazakhstan is preparing to change the rules of migration. In December 2025, the government approved the Migration Policy Concept until 2030, a document developed in line with the instructions of the country’s leadership. Starting from 2026, migration procedures will become more structured, transparent and strictly regulated, DKNews.kz reports.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva explained the logic behind the new approach and what migrants should expect.
Migration as a strategic issue
According to Balayeva, migration today goes far beyond labor mobility and directly reflects global and domestic changes.
“In today’s conditions, migration is an important indicator of socio-economic and geopolitical changes. That is why the state is revising its approaches to regulating migration processes, making the system more transparent, manageable and focused on the interests of Kazakhstan’s citizens.”
The new policy is built on a balance between economic needs, public interests and national security.
Priority for citizens of Kazakhstan
One of the key principles of the concept is the clear prioritization of local interests.
“First of all, we proceed from the interests of Kazakhstan’s citizens. Foreign labor will be attracted only where there is a real shortage of personnel. Migration flows will be formed taking into account the actual needs of industries, regions and specific projects.”
This means Kazakhstan is moving away from uncontrolled migration and toward a targeted, demand-driven model.
Law and order - without exceptions
A strong emphasis in the new policy is placed on legality and accountability.
“Compliance with the law is mandatory for everyone, regardless of status. Therefore, control over compliance with migration legislation will be strengthened, and responsibility for violations will be inevitable for both migrants and employers. Security must be ensured at every stage - from entry to exit.”
The minister stressed that respect for the country’s legal and cultural norms is a basic requirement.
“Our goal is for people to come to Kazakhstan who are ready to live and work here while respecting the laws and culture of the country.”
New selection system from 2026
From January 2026, Kazakhstan will introduce a scoring-based pre-selection model for foreign nationals applying for permanent residence, including ethnic Kazakhs. The process will include mandatory testing of knowledge of the state language, digital questionnaires, background checks by competent authorities and a final interview.
The authorities expect this system to reduce risks and eliminate fraudulent schemes at an early stage.
Special conditions for ethnic Kazakhs
Ethnic Kazakhs who wish to receive state support will follow a separate procedure. To qualify for benefits, they must obtain kandas status and settle in labor-deficient regions.
“We call on our compatriots to follow the state strategy, and in return they will receive all the necessary support - with relocation, settlement and employment. Kandas included in the regional quota sign a five-year social contract when they relocate.”
At the same time, the state clearly defines the conditions of responsibility.
“If, for example, a kandas family receives support and after two or three years decides to leave the host region for another city without completing the required five years under the social contract, they will be obliged to return the full amount of state support received.”
An alternative option remains
Balayeva also noted that ethnic Kazakhs may choose another path.
They can apply for permanent residence on general grounds, without regional quotas or state support. This option allows individuals to choose their place of residence independently, within the framework of existing legislation.
Gradual implementation and feedback
According to the minister, the new migration policy will be introduced step by step, taking into account feedback from society, businesses and regions. Priority will be given to law-abiding and responsible individuals, while digital tools will help eliminate illegal schemes and fake documents.
“Migration must be legal, controlled and safe. Only in this format does it serve the interests of our state and our citizens.”
This principle, the authorities say, will define Kazakhstan’s migration policy in the years leading up to 2030.
