Kazakhstan to Make QazETA Mandatory for Visa-Exempt Travellers by July 2027

Kazakhstan has set a definitive timeline for the implementation of its QazETA electronic travel authorisation. This new system will become mandatory for eligible foreign nationals from July 1, 2027. The requirement is established under Government Decree No. 890, issued on October 10, 2026, which amends existing regulations for foreign nationals' entry, stay, and departure. This decree is scheduled to come into effect on October 24, 2026.

The rollout will occur in four distinct stages, gradually introducing ETA checks at border crossings nationwide. From November 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, travellers will not face denial of entry if they lack an ETA; instead, border officials will inform them of the upcoming requirement. The initial phase begins November 1, 2026, at Aktau International Airport and four specific road crossings. On January 1, 2027, the system will expand to Astana and Almaty international airports. By March 1, 2027, all remaining border crossings across Kazakhstan will implement ETA checks, leading to the full mandatory enforcement from July 1, 2027.

The QazETA will be issued free of charge to eligible applicants. It will be valid for 180 calendar days from the date of issuance. Travellers must submit their application online at least 72 hours before their planned entry into Kazakhstan. The authorisation process involves online submission via a digital platform, including applicant identification or authentication. Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs will issue these authorisations in coordination with national security authorities. Upon arrival, travellers must present the identity document used for their application, allowing border guards to verify the authorisation via the national Berkut information system.

This new electronic travel authorisation primarily targets nationals of countries currently enjoying visa-free entry to Kazakhstan. This includes passport holders from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, alongside travellers from numerous European countries, Japan, and South Korea. Certain nationalities benefiting from special visa-free arrangements, such as citizens of India, Iran, and Türkiye, will also be subject to the QazETA requirement. The provisions also mention citizens of Eurasian Economic Union member states; however, their implementation will require reconciliation with existing international agreements governing freedom of movement. The QazETA does not alter or replace existing visa requirements or permitted lengths of stay, merely adding an additional prerequisite before departure.

Several categories of travellers are exempt from the QazETA requirement, provided they present appropriate documentation. Exemptions apply to children under 16 and individuals aged 65 or older. Holders of a valid Kazakh visa are also exempt, as are foreign nationals with a temporary or permanent residence permit in Kazakhstan. International air transit passengers who remain within the airport's transit area without formally entering the country do not need a QazETA. Specific diplomats, government officials, official delegation members, and certain transport crew members are also excluded from the requirement.