Astana, 21 October. Kazakhstan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent through diplomatic channels detailed information on the QazETA electronic entry authorisation system to all 85 countries whose citizens may enter Kazakhstan without a visa, including Russia, which had asked for the new rules to be explained.
"As is known, the QazETA electronic entry authorisation system will apply to citizens of 85 countries, including the Russian Federation, who have the right to visit Kazakhstan visa-free," the ministry said. Ministry spokesman Zhanbolat Ussenov added that the competent authorities will shortly hold a special briefing in Astana for foreign diplomatic missions to explain how the system works.
Moscow had publicly asked for an explanation: Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Russia expected additional clarification from the Kazakh side because the new rules also apply to citizens of EAEU member states.
The government approved the rules by a resolution of 10 October: foreigners from visa-free countries must obtain a free electronic authorisation in advance, no later than 72 hours before travelling, and from 1 July 2027 the lack of one will be grounds for refusing entry. Checks will be introduced in stages: from 1 November at Aktau airport and four road border crossings, from 1 January 2027 at the airports of Astana and Almaty, and from 1 March 2027 at the remaining checkpoints. Until July 2027, border guards will only explain to arrivals that the document is required.
What it means: The Foreign Ministry answered Moscow's public request with a mailing to all 85 visa-free countries, and a separate briefing will be held for embassies in Astana. The ministry has not announced any postponement or easing of the requirements.
Who benefits: The explanation is addressed to foreigners from the 85 visa-free countries, including citizens of Russia and other EAEU states, who will need an authorisation to enter from 2027. The Foreign Ministry's statements do not assess how the system will affect tourist and business travel.
Background: In September, Russia's trade representative in Kazakhstan, Anton Loginov, wrote to Russia's deputy transport minister that QazETA was working in pilot mode and that the authorisation was voluntary and free of charge. At the same time Zhanbolat Ussenov explained that the system was being considered not only for Russian citizens but for all countries with which Kazakhstan has a visa-free regime.
List of sources used: Tengrinews, NUR.KZ, TASS, BES.media, Spot, PRIME, Zakon.kz
Artificial intelligence was used in preparing this material.
