Almaty Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city and former capital, welcomes international travelers through Almaty International Airport (ALA), the country's busiest aviation hub. Kazakhstan has implemented a progressive visa policy in recent years, offering visa-free entry to citizens of numerous countries and an electronic visa system for many others. The entry process is generally straightforward for most Western travelers, with modern immigration facilities and English-speaking staff at major entry points. Upon arrival in Almaty, travelers will proceed through immigration control where passports are checked and entry stamps issued, followed by baggage claim and customs clearance. The entire process typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on flight arrivals and queue lengths. Kazakhstan requires all foreign nationals to register with migration authorities if staying longer than 5 days, though hotels typically handle this automatically for their guests. It's essential to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Kazakhstan. Travelers should also be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds, onward/return tickets, and accommodation details if requested by immigration officers. While Kazakhstan has streamlined its entry procedures significantly, requirements can change, so always verify current regulations with official sources before your trip.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Kazakhstan offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 70 countries, with additional nations eligible for electronic visas. The visa policy applies uniformly across the country, including Almaty.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 30 days within any 90-day period (some countries have different allowances)

Citizens of these countries can enter Kazakhstan without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand All European Union member states Norway Switzerland Iceland Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia United Arab Emirates Argentina Brazil Chile Turkey Israel Monaco Vatican City CIS countries (90 days)

Some nationalities may have different permitted durations. Citizens of EAEU member states (Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan) can stay indefinitely. Always verify your specific nationality's allowance before travel.

Electronic Visa (eVisa)

Single entry for up to 30 days

Citizens of eligible countries can apply for an electronic visa online before travel

Includes

India China Indonesia Philippines Vietnam Thailand Saudi Arabia Egypt Morocco South Africa Many other African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Kazakhstan eVisa portal (www.vmp.gov.kz) at least 4 business days before travel. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days. Upload a passport photo, passport copy, and complete the online form.
Cost: Approximately USD $60-80 depending on nationality and processing time

Print the eVisa approval and present it upon arrival. The eVisa is valid for 90 days from issue date and allows one entry with a stay of up to 30 days.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type (typically 30 days for tourist visas)

Nationals of countries not covered by visa-free or eVisa programs must apply for a traditional visa at a Kazakh embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply in person at the nearest Kazakh embassy or consulate. Submit application form, passport photos, passport valid for 6+ months, invitation letter (if required), proof of accommodation, and travel itinerary. Processing takes 5-10 business days.

Some nationalities may require an invitation letter from a Kazakh sponsor or hotel. Business visas require an invitation from a registered Kazakh company. Check with your nearest Kazakh diplomatic mission for specific requirements.

Arrival Process

The entry process at Almaty International Airport is modern and efficient. Most travelers clear immigration within 30-60 minutes, though peak times may be longer. Immigration officers generally speak English and Russian.

Disembark and Follow Signs

After landing, follow signs to 'Passport Control' or 'Immigration.' International arrivals are clearly marked in English, Russian, and Kazakh.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, visa (if required), and completed migration card (usually distributed on the flight). The officer will verify your documents, may ask brief questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with entry date. Keep the migration card as you'll need it when departing.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim and collect your luggage. Trolleys are available. Check flight information displays for your carousel number.

Customs Declaration

Choose the appropriate customs channel: Green (nothing to declare) or Red (goods to declare). Most travelers use the green channel. You may be subject to random inspection.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, you'll enter the public arrivals area where you can access taxis, car rentals, currency exchange, and meet greeters.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure from Kazakhstan. Must have at least one blank page for entry stamp.

Visa or eVisa (if required)

Print copy of eVisa approval if you applied online. Nationals requiring visas must have the visa sticker in their passport.

Migration Card

Completed migration card (provided on flight or at immigration). Fill out accurately and keep the departure portion for exit.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Kazakhstan. May be requested by immigration officers, though not always checked.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation or invitation letter from host. Occasionally requested to verify purpose of visit.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay. Rarely requested but advisable to have available.

Customs Declaration Form (if applicable)

Required if carrying amounts exceeding duty-free allowances or restricted items. Available at customs area.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents readily accessible in a travel folder before reaching immigration - don't pack them in checked luggage.

Fill out your migration card completely and legibly during the flight to save time at immigration.

Keep your migration card safe throughout your stay - you'll need to surrender it when departing Kazakhstan.

If staying more than 5 days, ensure your hotel registers you with migration authorities. If staying with friends/family, you must register at the local migration police office.

Download offline maps and have your hotel address written in Russian/Kazakh to show taxi drivers, as English is not universally spoken.

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate expenses, but better rates are typically found in the city.

Be polite and patient with immigration officers. Smile and answer questions clearly and honestly.

Take a photo of your passport information page and visa (if applicable) and store it separately as backup.

Customs & Duty-Free

Kazakhstan customs regulations are standard for Central Asian countries. Most travelers bringing personal items will have no issues, but it's important to be aware of duty-free allowances and prohibited items. Customs officers may conduct random inspections, and all travelers must be prepared to declare items exceeding allowances.

Alcohol

Up to 3 liters of alcoholic beverages

Must be 21 years or older. Amounts exceeding this limit are subject to duty or may be confiscated.

Tobacco

Up to 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco products

Must be 18 years or older. Excess quantities may be subject to duty.

Currency

Up to USD $10,000 equivalent (or any currency) without declaration

Amounts exceeding USD $10,000 must be declared on arrival. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and fines. Keep declaration form for departure.

Gifts/Goods

Personal goods up to €1,500 in value and weighing up to 50kg

Items clearly for personal use during your trip are generally exempt. Commercial quantities or expensive items may be questioned.

Perfume

Up to 250ml of perfume or eau de toilette

For personal use only.

Prohibited Items

Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances - strictly prohibited with severe penalties including imprisonment
Weapons and ammunition - without proper permits and documentation
Explosives and flammable materials - except in approved containers and quantities
Pornographic materials - subject to confiscation
Materials promoting terrorism, extremism, or violence - illegal and subject to prosecution
Counterfeit currency and goods - subject to confiscation and legal action
Endangered species and products - protected under CITES regulations
Certain plants and seeds - agricultural restrictions apply

Restricted Items

Medications containing controlled substances - bring prescription and doctor's letter; quantities should not exceed personal use for trip duration
Professional camera/video equipment - may require declaration and temporary import permit if appearing commercial in nature
Drones and radio-controlled devices - require special permission from aviation authorities; declare upon arrival
Cultural artifacts and antiques - require export permits; purchasing such items requires careful documentation
Large amounts of cash or monetary instruments - must be declared if exceeding USD $10,000
Precious metals and stones - amounts exceeding personal jewelry require declaration
Hunting weapons - require special permits obtained in advance through Kazakh authorities
Certain food products - meat, dairy, and plant products may be restricted; check current regulations

Health Requirements

Kazakhstan does not have extensive mandatory vaccination requirements for most international travelers, but certain health precautions are recommended. Health requirements can change based on global health situations and disease outbreaks.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - only if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days prior to arrival. Proof of vaccination (Yellow Card) must be presented.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure you're up to date with standard vaccines including MMR, DTP, and seasonal influenza
Hepatitis A - recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food or water
Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Typhoid - recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or adventurous eaters
Rabies - consider for travelers spending significant time outdoors, working with animals, or in rural areas
Tuberculosis - BCG vaccine may be considered for travelers with extensive contact with local population
Tick-borne encephalitis - recommended if planning extensive outdoor activities in rural/forested areas during spring/summer

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Kazakhstan's healthcare system may require upfront payment, and quality medical facilities are limited outside Almaty and Astana. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Some activities (skiing, mountaineering) may require additional coverage.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 requirements have been largely removed as of 2024, but verify current regulations before travel as policies can change. Check the official Kazakhstan Ministry of Health website and your government's travel advisory for the latest health entry requirements. Some countries may still have testing or vaccination requirements for travelers returning from Kazakhstan.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Almaty or Astana for citizen services and emergencies

Register with your embassy's traveler program before departure. Most major countries have diplomatic representation in Almaty or Astana. Check your government's foreign affairs website for contact details.

Immigration Authority

Ministry of Internal Affairs, Migration Police Department - www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/qriim

For visa extensions, registration questions, and official immigration information. The eVisa portal is at www.vmp.gov.kz

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 112 (unified emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services)

English-speaking operators may be limited. Also available: Police 102, Ambulance 103, Fire 101. Consider having a Russian/Kazakh speaker assist if possible.

Almaty International Airport

Airport information: +7 727 270 3333 - www.alaport.com

For flight information, lost luggage, and airport services. Information desks are located in arrivals and departures halls.

Tourist Information

Almaty Tourism Information Center - located in the city center

For city maps, attraction information, and general tourist assistance. Limited English availability.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (included on parent's passport is not accepted for international travel). If a child is traveling with only one parent, a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent is strongly recommended, though not always required. If traveling with someone other than parents, a notarized letter from both parents authorizing the travel is required. For divorced or separated parents, custody documents may be requested. Single parents should carry birth certificates and custody documents if applicable. Minors traveling alone require special documentation and advance notification to airlines.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Kazakhstan require: a veterinary health certificate issued within 5 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry, microchip identification (recommended), and import permit from Kazakhstan's veterinary authorities. Certain breeds of dogs may be restricted. Pets must enter through designated ports of entry. Airlines have specific requirements for pet carriers and advance notification. Allow several weeks to complete all documentation. Contact the Kazakhstan Ministry of Agriculture's Veterinary Department for current requirements.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas and visa-free entry typically allow stays of 30 days. For longer stays, you must apply for a visa extension through the Migration Police Department before your authorized stay expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and require justification (employment, study, family reasons). Business visas can be obtained for longer durations (90 days to 1 year) with appropriate sponsorship from a Kazakh company. Work permits and residence permits are required for employment and long-term residence, requiring employer sponsorship. Students need acceptance from a recognized educational institution. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, and entry bans.

Business Travelers

Business travelers can often use visa-free entry for short trips (meetings, conferences). For longer business stays or repeated visits, a business visa is recommended. This requires an invitation letter from a registered Kazakh company or organization. The invitation must be registered with migration authorities. Business visas can be single, double, or multiple entry with validity from 90 days to 1 year. If conducting business activities, ensure compliance with local business registration and tax requirements.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Almaty International Airport without leaving the international transit area generally do not need a visa if continuing their journey within 24 hours. If you wish to leave the airport or have a longer layover, standard visa requirements apply based on your nationality. Some nationalities can obtain a transit visa for up to 72 hours. Confirm with your airline and the Kazakh embassy if you're unsure about your transit visa requirements.

Dual Citizens

If you hold Kazakh citizenship in addition to another nationality, you must enter and exit Kazakhstan using your Kazakh passport. Kazakhstan does not officially recognize dual citizenship, though it tolerates it in practice. Attempting to enter on a foreign passport when you hold Kazakh citizenship can create complications. Former Kazakh citizens who have renounced citizenship should carry documentation proving renunciation.