Navigating Work Visas and Authorizations in Kazakhstan: A Guide for Employers

Understanding work visas and authorizations in Kazakhstan

Navigating Kazakhstan's immigration system means understanding two key concepts: work visas and work authorizations. While often used interchangeably, they serve different functions. A work visa grants legal entry into the country, whereas a work authorization (often in the form of a work permit) allows foreign nationals to legally work within Kazakhstan. Most foreign workers need both.

Compliance is crucial. The Kazakh government strictly regulates the hiring of foreign nationals, and non-compliance can result in hefty fines or even bans on future hiring. Local authorities require detailed labor market testing and adherence to quotas, especially for companies outside the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), which has a slightly more relaxed framework.

There are several types of work visas that each serve different purposes, depending on the nature of the job and length of stay. 

• B2 visa. For short-term business trips, valid up to 90 days.
• B3 visa. For installation or maintenance work.
• B10 visa. Typically for investors and business founders.
• C3 visa. For full-time employment with a Kazakh employer.
• C5 visa. Often used for intra-company transfers or secondments.

Understanding the appropriate visa category ensures smoother processing and mitigates delays.  

The process of obtaining a work visa as an employer

For companies hiring foreign talent in Kazakhstan, the employer typically initiates the work visa process. Here’s how it usually unfolds:

1. Labor market testing. Employers may need to prove there are no suitable local candidates for the position.
2. Work permit application. The employer submits documents to the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection.
3. Approval and invitation letter. Once approved, the employer receives an official invitation letter.
4. Visa issuance. The foreign employee applies for a visa at a Kazakh embassy or consulate.

Opening a work visa application requires gathering employee documents, including a passport, job offer, and health certificate. The employer must also provide corporate registration documents and a description of the role.

For those considering expansion into new markets, this blog on how to expand business internationally offers valuable guidance.

Work permit costs and duration

Costs vary depending on the visa category and the region where the employee will work. As of 2025, fees can range from US$500 to $2,000 per work permit. Renewal costs are similar, and fees may be higher for sectors with higher labor demand or more complex documentation requirements.

Work permits are usually valid for one year, with an option to renew for an additional two years depending on the position and nationality. Some categories—like the C3 visa—offer longer durations for executive or technical staff. Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Labor offers more details on quotas and duration policies.

Sponsorship and employment authorization

Employers can sponsor foreign nationals, but sponsorship requires meeting local compliance thresholds. This includes registration with immigration authorities and maintaining proper documentation throughout the employee’s tenure.

To obtain employment authorization, companies need to:

• Submit an application to the regional labor office
• Provide justification for the foreign hire
• Submit copies of the employment contract, job description, and required licenses (if applicable) 

Employers are expected to stay compliant with Law No. 477-V on Migration, which outlines employer responsibilities, penalties for non-compliance, and procedures for revoking permits.

Businesses can avoid common pitfalls by hiring an Employer of Record (EOR) and letting them handle staying current on changes in Kazakhstan’s labor and migration laws.

Considerations for hiring foreign workers

Kazakhstan is increasingly becoming a hub for foreign professionals, particularly in energy, mining, engineering, and IT. The country ranks high in Central Asia for economic freedom and offers tax incentives in certain special economic zones.

Legal protections for foreign employees are on par with those for Kazakh citizens. Workers are entitled to fair wages, contracts in both Kazakh and Russian (with translations), and access to healthcare and social benefits. Discrimination based on nationality is explicitly prohibited under Kazakhstan’s Labor Code.

Still, not every region offers the same opportunities. While cities like Almaty and Astana are known for diverse, international workforces, rural areas may have more restrictive hiring conditions.

According to a 2025 report from the World Bank, Kazakhstan continues to see a rise in demand for foreign technical specialists and senior managers.

Tips and resources for a successful application

Successfully securing a work visa in Kazakhstan requires a proactive and organized approach. Employers should consider the following:

• Thorough documentation. Ensure all documents are correctly translated, notarized, and submitted on time.
• Early preparation. Start the process as early as possible to account for processing delays.
• Understand visa types. Select the correct visa category for the role and duration.

Utilizing support from EOR providers

An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party organization that hires employees on behalf of another company. In Kazakhstan, an EOR ensures that foreign workers are hired in full compliance with local labor laws, handles payroll, benefits, taxes, and navigates complex visa and work permit processes.

Partnering with an EOR provider like Velocity Global can significantly reduce the administrative burden and legal risk, while speeding up onboarding and ensuring compliance across the board.

FAQ

Can an individual apply for a work permit directly?

No, work permits must be initiated by a sponsoring employer.

How long does the application process take?

Typically 30–45 business days.

Is there a fast-track option?

Some sectors may qualify for expedited processing through regional investment programs.

How Velocity Global can help

Velocity Global’s Employer of Record solution helps businesses hire seamlessly in Kazakhstan and beyond. With our local expertise and deep understanding of Kazakhstan’s regulatory landscape, we enable compliant hiring, faster onboarding, and ongoing support for international teams.

By leveraging us as the legal employer in country, businesses can sidestep administrative hurdles, meet labor quotas, and ensure every foreign employee is authorized to work and given the tools to succeed.

This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided “as is,” and no representations are made that the content is error-free.

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