Kazakhstan and China introduce visa-free regime

As a result of a deal the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan has reached with its Chinese counterparts, citizens of Kazakhstan will be able to stay in China for 30 days. The same rule will be applied to Chinese citizens in Kazakhstan.

According to the ministry’s decree, citizens of both countries who have a passport and head to a neighboring country as tourists, for medical treatment or with business purposes for a maximum of 30 days are relieved from visa requirements. In total, citizens of the two countries can stay in either of the states for 90 days within 180 days.

However, if Kazakhstani or Chinese citizens want to stay in a neighboring country longer, they must apply for a visa.

Despite simplified entering procedures either of the countries can ban a person from entering to protect its national security, public order and health of the population as Chinese and Kazakhstani legislation requires.

The agreement is expected to be signed in May when Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu comes to China on an official visit. The draft agreement has been published online for public consideration and has no expiration date.

So far, China requires a visa for those Kazakhstanis who are heading there. In order to apply for a Chinese visa an individual needs a set of documents such as a passport, photo, written application, accommodation confirmation, insurance, tickets and invitation from a tour operator or a hotel. In some cases, Chinese authorities can require additional documents.

In July 2022, Kazakhstan introduced a 14-day visa-free regime with China, India and Iran. In January 2023, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan agreed to increase visa-free staying in both countries to 30 days.