Kazakhstan has sent information about the "QazETA" electronic entry permit system to 85 states through diplomatic channels. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
The system applies to citizens of countries that have the right to visa-free entry into the republic, the Foreign Ministry said. Earlier, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Moscow was awaiting additional clarification from Astana regarding the introduction of a new procedure for obtaining electronic permits to enter Kazakhstan.
She also noted that Russia respects the republic's sovereign right to improve its migration legislation.
"Full information about the QazETA system was sent through diplomatic channels to all the above-mentioned states (85 countries whose citizens can enter Kazakhstan visa-free — ed.)," the Foreign Ministry said.
The Kazakh government had previously adopted a resolution on introducing electronic entry permits. The requirement will take effect on July 1, 2027.
The new border-crossing requirement applies to citizens of member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), countries with visa-free agreements with Astana, and a number of other countries, including European Union member states.
Permits can be obtained at least 72 hours before entering the country, after passing identity verification or authentication, through the official QazETA mobile application.
The Foreign Ministry also noted that full information on the procedure for obtaining an electronic permit will be published on the websites of the republic's diplomatic missions abroad and other information platforms, allowing foreign citizens to familiarize themselves with the new entry requirements in advance.
In addition, the ministry said Kazakhstan's competent authorities will soon hold a special briefing in Astana for representatives of foreign diplomatic missions to explain how the QazETA system operates.