Quick facts for visitors

Here are some quick facts for visitors to Kazakhstan:

Official Language: Kazakh and Russian

Capital: Astana

Largest City: Almaty

Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)

Time Zone: Kazakhstan Time (KZT) which is UTC+5

Entry Requirements: Visitors from many countries can enter Kazakhstan without a visa for various durations. However, the specific requirements and visa policies may vary, so it's essential to check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

Currency Exchange: The local currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). You can exchange currency at banks or exchange offices.

Safety: Kazakhstan is generally a safe country for travelers. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions and be aware of local customs and laws.

Emergency Number:

  • Police 102
  • Ambulance 103
  • Fire 101
  • 112 for the national emergency number.

Local Etiquette: Kazakhs are known for their hospitality. It's customary to accept offers of tea or snacks when visiting someone's home. It's also important to show respect to the elderly.

Language: While Kazakh and Russian are the official languages, English is not widely spoken, so having a basic knowledge of Russian can be helpful.

Here is information about the customs regulations for travelers entering and leaving Kazakhstan:

Goods Allowed for Import (for travelers over 18 years old):

  • 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 200g of tobacco products.
  • Up to 3 liters of alcoholic beverages.
  • A reasonable quantity of perfume for personal use.
  • Goods for personal use with a total value of up to €1,500.

Customs Declaration:

Upon entering Kazakhstan, travelers are required to complete a customs declaration form, which should be retained until departure. This declaration allows the import of articles intended for personal use, including currency and valuables, which must be registered on the form. These items must be exported at the end of your stay. Customs inspections can be detailed and time-consuming. It is advisable to keep receipts for items purchased in Kazakhstan to avoid difficulties during customs inspections when departing.

Banned Imports:

The following items are prohibited for import into Kazakhstan:

  • Photographs and printed matter directed against Kazakhstan.
  • Military arms and ammunition.
  • Narcotics.
  • Live animals.

Food items must be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate.

Banned Exports:

The following items are prohibited for export from Kazakhstan:

  • Arms and ammunition.
  • Precious metals and stones.
  • Furs.

Antiquities and art objects require an export permit.

Please note that customs regulations and restrictions can change, so it's a good idea to check with the Kazakhstani customs authorities or your country's embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information before traveling. Adhering to these regulations will help ensure a smooth entry and exit from Kazakhstan.