Kazakhstan Introduces New Requirements for Citizenship: Language, History, and Constitution Knowledge
Kazakhstan's Ministry of Internal Affairs has announced new regulations for acquiring Kazakh citizenship, mandating knowledge of the state language, as well as foundational knowledge of the country's history and Constitution.
Shyngys Alekeshev, an official representative of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, detailed these amendments during a recent briefing. The updated law will incorporate specific criteria for denying citizenship applications, primarily focusing on the applicant’s inability to demonstrate basic proficiency in the Kazakh language and an understanding of the nation’s history and Constitution.
“The elementary level of language proficiency will be determined by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education,” Alekeshev explained. “The purpose of these amendments is to facilitate rapid adaptation and integration into society. Knowing the language is essential for new citizens to fully participate in the life of the state.”
These amendments draw on practices from other countries, including Germany, Canada, and Türkiye. For instance, Germany requires citizenship applicants to have a high level of proficiency in the German language and to maintain German cultural traditions. In Canada, applicants must understand the history and responsibilities of citizenship and pass a test in English or French, depending on the province. Similarly, Türkiye mandates knowledge of the Turkish language for citizenship applicants.
This legislative change aligns with a recent law signed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, aimed at enhancing population migration policies and the penal system in Kazakhstan. The law “On introducing amendments and additions to some legislative acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan on improving legislation in the areas of population migration and the penal system” underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring new citizens are well-prepared for integration into Kazakh society.
