Residence permit application process

Children under 14 years of age generally do not require a separate Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) to stay in Kazakhstan if they are accompanying a parent who holds a valid residence status (e.g., VNZh or RVP). Their presence is often linked to the parent's permit.

As of August 17th, Kazakhstan has implemented a simplified procedure for obtaining a Residence Permit (VNZH) for former citizens born in the country. This new process reportedly waives the Kazakh language exam, eliminates the points-based system, and allows for residency in any region. Discussions and details are available in dedicated Telegram groups. However, some sources suggest this may be a pilot project with certain limitations.

In Kazakhstan, the processing time for a Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) applied for via eGov is officially stated as 1 working day. However, this can be unpredictable. If you do not receive a response within the expected timeframe, it is advisable to visit the migration police office (TSON) to inquire about the status of your application.

If your RVP (Temporary Residence Permit) in Kazakhstan is canceled and you have a departure deadline, understand that days spent under RVP do not count towards tourist visa-free days. You can re-enter Kazakhstan immediately after the RVP expiration date. For example, if your departure is due on the 15th, you can re-enter on the 16th or later.

When renewing a foreign residence permit (VNZh) in Kazakhstan, ensure your foreign passport is also valid and up-to-date. If your passport is expiring or has expired, initiate the renewal process for it simultaneously. The processing time for a new passport can be up to 3 months. Expedited services might be available at the consulate for an additional fee. Alternatively, applying for a new passport in your home country might be an option, though it involves travel costs and time.

Temporary residence permits (RVP) in Astana, Kazakhstan, can be renewed. The process typically takes one day. Be aware that some regions, including Astana, may have limitations or quotas for issuing long-term residence permits (VNZh). It is advisable to check with the local migration authorities for the most current information regarding quotas and eligibility before your RVP expires.

To verify the validity of a Residence Permit (RVP) in Kazakhstan, citizens of Kazakhstan can use the eGov portal. Foreigners may need to visit the migration police office for verification. The QR code on the RVP typically contains the individual's IIN (Individual Identification Number), and additional data might be required for a comprehensive check.

As of July 14, 2026, internal Russian passports are no longer accepted for Temporary Residency Permit (RVP) or Permanent Residency applications in Kazakhstan, according to updated interior ministry regulations (Order No. 992). A valid international passport (zagran) is now required.

Obtaining a Permanent Residence Permit (VNZh) in Kazakhstan typically involves a multi-stage process. Initially, one might need to reside on an RVP (Temporary Residence Permit) for a year, particularly if seeking employment-based residency. Requirements include passing a Kazakh language test, undergoing interviews, and demonstrating financial stability or specialized skills. For former citizens or ethnic Kazakhs, certain requirements may be relaxed. Marriage to a Kazakh citizen can also be a pathway, though financial stability proof might still be necessary unless exemptions apply (e.g., for citizens of EAEU countries).

A Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) in Kazakhstan is distinct from a Residence Permit (VNZh). An RVP is typically for a shorter duration and often tied to employment. A VNZh is a more permanent status. Obtaining a VNZh usually requires a period of living in Kazakhstan on an RVP, passing language exams, and meeting other criteria. Both are temporary statuses and not equivalent to citizenship.

If you have changed your passport while holding a Russian permanent residency (VNZh), your VNZh becomes invalid. You must update it with the Ministry of Internal Affairs. When applying for VNZh in Kazakhstan as a former compatriot, if your region is not listed on migration.kz, contact the migration authorities for guidance, as applications might be accepted regardless of region. For Russian citizens with temporary residence permits (RVP) obtained through family reunification with a mother, there might be specific procedures and potential complications when applying for RVP for a spouse and child, as RVP for reunification is typically for minors. Consult the migration service for clarification.

The processing time for a residence permit (VNZH) in Kazakhstan is approximately 3 months. In Astana, there are significant challenges in scheduling an appointment for document submission. Applicants may need to wait in a queue and check in daily for about a month to secure a slot, in addition to the 3-month processing time.

Kazakh citizens who have obtained Russian Permanent Residence (VNZh) and are traveling between Kazakhstan and Russia should carry both their Kazakh passport and their Russian VNZh. Upon entering Kazakhstan, the Kazakh passport is sufficient. When crossing from Kazakhstan into Russia, present both the Russian VNZh and the Kazakh passport (or other valid identification) to border control.

In Kazakhstan, the processing time for a Temporary Residence Permit (RVP) can vary. While some TSON (Public Service Center) offices may indicate same-day or next-day results, delays can occur. If a confirmation code from 1414 is required from the property owner and is not received, this can halt the application process. It's advisable to follow up directly with the migration department or TSON for status updates.

When applying for residency (VNZH) or other official documents in Kazakhstan at a Public Service Center (TSON), professional photography is provided on-site for free. Applicants should check for document processing terminals available at specific TSON locations for high-quality, automated photo capture.