Since the introduction of new eligibility criteria in July 2023, more than 10,000 ethnic Kazakhs have been granted the Kandas status, according to the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection.
The Kandas status is a special legal status granted to ethnic Kazakhs who return to their historical homeland. In an effort to encourage this return, the government has implemented new regulations to streamline the application process.
To qualify for the Kandas status, individuals must meet at least one of the following conditions: resettlement to labor-scarce regions, moving to areas with population growth potential, family reunification, employment offers, or enrollment in Kazakhstani universities.
The government has identified specific regions and areas where there is a demand for additional population. Those who relocate to these areas are prioritized for the Kandas status. Additionally, ethnic Kazakhs can apply for the status if they have family members living in Kazakhstan and can secure housing.
Since the new rules came into effect, thousands of ethnic Kazakhs have been granted the Kandas status. The majority of recipients have qualified through family reunification, followed by resettlement to labor-scarce regions.
It is worth noting that Kazakhstan has a long-standing policy of encouraging the return of ethnic Kazakhs. Since independence, over one million people have returned to the country and been granted the Kandas status.
