Kazakhstan Overhauls Migration Policy to Lure Skilled Workers and Investors

Kazakhstan is updating its migration policies to attract skilled workers and investors. Officials gathered at a roundtable hosted by the Human Resources Development Center to discuss new strategies for recruiting highly qualified specialists. The changes aim to strengthen the country’s economic and demographic position. First Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Protection Yerbol Tuyakayev explained that the reforms follow a presidential decree to modernise migration policy. The Ministry of Labor plans to simplify administrative steps, introduce a unified digital platform called QazETA, and apply a 'one-stop shop' approach for faster processing.

Anna Alshanskaya, Head of Economic Policy Analysis at the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies, stressed the role of migration in ensuring economic and demographic stability. She noted that Kazakhstan sits between nations with ageing populations and those with large youth cohorts, creating opportunities for targeted migration policies.

The government will categorise foreign nationals into four groups for tailored visa rules: business migrants, highly skilled professionals, mid-level specialists, and labour immigrants. A new 'Altyn Visa' programme will offer strategic investors and in-demand experts a path to long-term residency, with benefits similar to Kazakhstani citizenship.

Said Latipov, Deputy Chairman of the Migration Service Committee, reported that Kazakhstan already allows visa-free entry for citizens of 87 countries. Last year, over 16 million foreign visitors entered the country. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has backed these initiatives, suggesting Kazakhstan could become a regional hub for attracting talent and investment. The proposed changes include streamlined procedures, a digital visa platform, and a new residency programme for investors and specialists. If implemented, these measures could reshape Kazakhstan’s labour market and strengthen its role as a destination for skilled migration. The reforms are expected to take effect in stages over the coming months.