The document provides for large-scale digital reform and the abandonment of the previous permit-quota system in favor of an incentive approach. The main goal is to form a regional hub for investment and human capital in the country. The Government has been instructed to complete the implementation of all changes by the end of 2026.
As part of the reform, the visa system will be revised. The categories will be unified and supplemented with new formats. A business visa is being introduced for investors and members of boards of directors, a skilled worker visa for scientists, doctors, cultural figures and graduates of leading universities, as well as a temporary worker visa for participants in specific investment projects. The key element will be the “Altyn visa”, designed for investors and in-demand specialists. For IT personnel, the processing time can be about one month. Holders of this visa will receive expanded access to government services, effectively comparable to the rights of citizens.
Significant tax benefits are provided for Altyn visa holders and their family members. We are talking about exemption from individual income tax, as well as taxes on property and land. Reporting is also simplified – such residents are exempt from general income declaration. At the same time, a digital resident ID is being introduced, which will become an analogue of an identity card when accessing government and financial services. It also provides for automatic recognition of diplomas from leading foreign universities without the nostrification procedure.
A separate area of reform is digitalization. A single QazETA platform with an e-Residency module will be created for foreign citizens, which will allow them to submit applications remotely using the “one window” principle. Additionally, the e-Residency Invest program is being launched, giving electronic residents the opportunity to invest in projects in Kazakhstan and on the AIFC site through partner banks.
At the same time, zones with mandatory English-language service will be formed in Astana and Almaty. This will affect medical institutions, schools, public service centers, police and public services. Almaty also plans to launch Almaty AI Hub, a specialized platform for the development of projects in the field of artificial intelligence.
The changes will also affect the Astana International Financial Center. The minimum period of stay for obtaining tax residency will be reduced from 90 to 30 days, which should increase the attractiveness of the jurisdiction for mobile investors. The National Bank and relevant departments were instructed to create a favorable financial regime for new residents, including the issuance of special payment cards within the regulatory “sandbox”.
The decree comes into force from the date of signing.
Let us remind you that for the first quarter of 2026 in Kazakhstan fixed growth of investment in fixed assets.
