President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan signed a decree on April 25 to improve the country's migration policy, aiming to attract highly qualified specialists, foreign investors, and entrepreneurs, as reported by Zakon.kz.

According to the document, Kazakhstan is transitioning from a permit-quota system to an incentive-based model of migration policy. Plans include simplifying and digitizing immigration procedures, notably implementing a 'single window' principle.

The primary goal of the reform is to transform the country into a regional hub that attracts investment and talent. The government has been tasked with fully implementing the changes by the end of 2026.

Current visa categories will be unified. A key innovation is the introduction of the 'Altyn Visa' ('Golden Visa'), available to investors and qualified personnel. For IT specialists, the waiting period is just one month. Holders of this visa are exempt from taxes and income declaration. Additionally, they are granted equal rights with Kazakh citizens in accessing state and financial services.

A unified QazETA platform with an e-Residency module will be launched for foreign nationals, allowing remote application submission.

In Astana and Almaty, zones with mandatory English-language service will be established, covering hospitals, schools, public service centers, police, and utility services.

Source: www.gazeta.uz