Mobile Device Registration Rules Have Changed
As of March 25, 2025, new regulations for registering subscriber devices have come into effect in Kazakhstan.
These changes only apply to devices brought into the country after March 25. All mobile phones that were already in use in Kazakhstan have been automatically added to the “white list” and will continue to function without restrictions.
Following consultations with business representatives, the government has granted an additional 60 days to register previously imported but unsold devices. This means that businesses and individuals have until May 25, 2025, to legalize their devices through the kz-imei.kz portal.
Under the new rules, all mobile devices entering the country for the first time must undergo verification in the GSMA international database and Kazakhstan’s state tax and customs systems. This process ensures:
The device meets the specifications declared by the manufacturer
It has been imported legally
The IMEI code is not listed as lost, stolen, or blocked
Who needs to go through verification?
Importers – for all devices brought into the country
Individuals – if the device has never been used in Kazakhstan’s mobile network
Authorized service centers – if an IMEI code change was necessary for technical reasons
After the deadline, unregistered devices will be restricted from using mobile network services. Additionally, devices that are not registered within 30 days of their first connection to the network will be blacklisted and blocked.
Before purchasing a mobile device, users can check its IMEI code at imei.rfs.gov.kz to avoid buying counterfeit or stolen devices.
Devices already in use before March 25, 2025, are not subject to these new regulations and will continue to operate normally.
The Ministry of Digital Development will continue to inform the public about the new regulations and advises citizens to carefully check device details before making a purchase.
