Considering a journey to Kazakhstan? Here’s what you should be aware of:

Visa-Free Entry: Many travellers can enter without a visa:

- Citizens from Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Russia, and Ukraine can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.

- Nationals from several countries, including the UAE, USA, EU member states, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea can enjoy up to 30 days of visa-free travel.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa): If you do not qualify for visa exemption, you can apply online for a single-entry e-visa — be it for tourism, business, medical purposes, or investment. This e-visa permits stays of up to 30 days and is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.

Necessary Documentation:

- A passport with at least 6 months' validity remaining
- A digital photo (35×45 mm) against a white backdrop
- Proof of travel plans, including accommodation details and return flight
- An invitation letter from an authorized Kazakh organization (mandatory for e-visa applications)
- Online payment of the consular fee (approximately US$60)

Note that this e-visa is only applicable for entry through Almaty or Astana airports.

Visa on Arrival: This option is only available if you have a pre-approved invitation letter and arrive at designated airports such as Almaty or Nur-Sultan; it is not valid at land borders. The fee is typically around US$80.

From the UAE:

UAE citizens can enter Kazakhstan without a visa for up to 30 days.

For expatriates of other nationalities living in the UAE, applying for an e-visa or embassy visa may be necessary, often requiring a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from a Kazakh sponsor.

Application Steps:

1. Determine your eligibility: Are you exempt from needing a visa, eligible for an e-visa, or required to visit the embassy?
2. If you are visa-exempt, just gather your passport along with your travel and accommodation confirmations.
3. If an e-visa is needed, obtain an invitation letter from a Kazakh agency, apply online, pay the fee, and expect approval within approximately 5 to 10 days.
4. If applying at the embassy or upon arrival, ensure you possess a valid invitation letter. Some travellers have reported agencies charging over US$100 for these letters.