You want to become a Kazakhstani citizen

Citizenship of the Republic of Kazakhstan may be acquired:

• by birth;

• through admission to citizenship;

• on the grounds and in accordance with the procedures established by international treaties of the Republic of Kazakhstan;

• on other grounds established by law.

General Procedure

The following persons may be admitted to citizenship of the Republic of Kazakhstan:

1. Persons who have permanently resided in Kazakhstan for at least five consecutive years.

2. Persons who have been married to a citizen of the Republic of Kazakhstan for at least three years.

3. Citizens of former Soviet republics who have arrived in Kazakhstan for permanent residence and have close relatives who are citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as specified by law.

For certain categories of persons, legislation provides exceptions to the general residence period requirements.

Simplified Procedure

The simplified (registration) procedure applies to categories specified in the Law “On Citizenship of the Republic of Kazakhstan” and international treaties, including the following persons, subject to meeting the established requirements:

• Kandas (ethnic Kazakh returnees);

• certain categories of rehabilitated victims of mass political repression and their descendants;

• ethnic Kazakhs studying at higher education institutions in Kazakhstan;

• widows of citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan;

• citizens of countries covered by the relevant international treaties;

• foreign women married to citizens of Kazakhstan, in cases provided for by law.

Application Processing Times

• Under the general procedure — up to six months.

• Under the simplified (registration) procedure — up to three months.

Important! The simplified procedure does not mean automatic acquisition of citizenship. Applicants must meet the conditions established by law and submit the required documents.