New Rules for Kazakhstanis’ Stay in Kyrgyzstan Effective from September 5
Starting September 5, 2024, new regulations will be implemented for citizens of Kazakhstan and other Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member countries regarding their stay in Kyrgyzstan. These changes come as part of the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers' resolution concerning the stay of foreign nationals and stateless persons.
The updated procedures affect citizens from countries with visa-free arrangements, including:
- Russia
- Kazakhstan
- Tajikistan
- Armenia
- Belarus
- Georgia
- Azerbaijan
- Moldova
According to the Ministry of Digital Development of Kyrgyzstan, citizens of these nations staying in Kyrgyzstan for private purposes, unrelated to work or studies, and who plan to remain beyond 60 days, must now register based on specific documents that grant the right to stay. Previously, these citizens could stay for up to six months with the possibility of extension based on the purpose of their visit.
Moving forward, long-term stays for private purposes will require one of the following documents:
- Residence permit
- Stateless person certificate
- “Kairylman” certificate
- “Meken-kart” certificate
EAEU member states (Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia) will be allowed to stay in Kyrgyzstan for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without the need for additional documentation. For citizens of Tajikistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Moldova, the stay is limited to 60 days within a 120-day period.
After these periods, individuals must either leave Kyrgyzstan or complete registration if they wish to stay longer. Failure to register will result in the need to exit the country, with re-entry allowed after a waiting period of 60 or 90 days.
For those staying for private purposes, a temporary residence permit can be obtained. The application is processed within 15 working days, granting a one-year permit with the option for annual renewal for up to five years.
The Ministry of Digital Development of Kyrgyzstan also reminded that citizens of the EAEU countries (Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Armenia) are exempt from mandatory registration for 30 days upon entry, while citizens of Azerbaijan are exempt for 15 days, Georgia for 90 days, and Tajikistan for 60 days. Citizens of Moldova must register within five working days after entering Kyrgyzstan.
In related news, Kazakhstan updated its foreigner and refugee registration rules on March 6, 2024.
