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Kazakhstan

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At a glance

Living index rating
Very affordable
Monthly rent
₸25,000 – ₸90,000 in a dormitory; ₸150,000 – ₸300,000 for a flat in Almaty
Monthly food
₸60,000 – ₸100,000
Other monthly expenses
₸20,000 – ₸40,000 (transport, phone, personal)
Visa processing time
Invitation 5 – 7 working days, then about 20 – 30 working days for the visa
Family allowed for students
Yes

Visa requirements

  • Student visa (C9 category), issued on an invitation your university arranges through the migration service
  • Admission letter, passport and photos; nationals of visa-free countries still need to register and get the right status
  • Register with the migration police within 3 days of arriving (your university usually does this)
  • Health insurance and a medical certificate may be required
  • International students on student visas aren't allowed to work, even part-time

Work permit after studies

  • No post-study work visa
  • With a job offer, your employer must obtain a work permit for you under the foreign labour quota, or you can apply for a work visa in some skilled categories

Citizenship route

  • Permanent residence permit, which since 2026 requires an 'immigration potential' assessment and a basic Kazakh language test (A1)
  • Citizenship usually after at least 5 years of permanent residence, with Kazakh language and history knowledge
  • Dual citizenship isn't allowed

Family details

  • Family members of students can get a C9 visa as accompanying family
  • A spouse and children over 16 need a temporary residence permit
  • Family members can't work on this status

Universities in Kazakhstan

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (96), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.