Kazakhstan has announced the phased introduction of QazETA, a new Electronic Travel Authorisation system for foreign nationals who are eligible for visa-free entry. The requirement will become mandatory from July 1, 2027, after a transitional period designed to let travellers and transport operators adapt.
The government introduced amendments to Decree No. 148 of January 21, 2012 to set up the framework for the digital system. Officials say the initiative aims to strengthen border security, improve migration management and simplify entry procedures for international visitors. QazETA will apply to nationals of 85 countries that currently qualify for visa-free entry, subject to applicable exemptions.
The rollout begins on November 1, 2026 at Aktau International Airport and four road crossings: Urlyutobe in Pavlodar Region, Aukhatty in Zhambyl Region, Atameken in Turkistan Region and Nurly Zhol in Jetisu Region. From January 1, 2027 the system covers Astana and Almaty International Airports, and from March 1, 2027 it extends to all remaining border crossing points.
During the transitional period until June 30, 2027, obtaining QazETA will be voluntary but recommended, and travellers will not be refused entry solely for lacking it. From July 1, 2027 a valid authorisation becomes mandatory, and failure to obtain it will be grounds for refusal of entry. Applications must be made through the official portal, qazeta.kz, at least 72 hours before intended entry. The authorisation is free of charge and valid for 180 calendar days, and travellers must use the same passport submitted in the application.
The government has identified 29 exemption categories, including heads of state and government, members of official delegations, diplomatic and service passport holders, staff of accredited missions, and holders of valid Kazakh visas or residence permits. Children below 16 and individuals above 65 are also exempt, as are transit passengers staying within airport transit areas and aircraft, maritime, river and railway crews and international transport drivers. Possession of an approved QazETA does not guarantee entry, and border authorities retain the right to refuse admission.
For travellers, the new system adds a pre-travel step for eligible visa-free visitors to Kazakhstan. Travel advisors and tour operators will need to account for the 72-hour application requirement when planning itineraries, particularly once the system becomes mandatory in July 2027.
