Kazakhstan

Petty crime and assault

Theft, pickpocketing, bag-snatching and assaults occur, particularly to foreign travellers. They can happen:

• on public transport
• in parks
• in shopping areas
• at open markets, including the Green Market in Almaty
• at restaurants
• near major tourist hotels and nightclubs, especially in the Almaty region

The risk of crime increases at night.

To lessen your risk:

• keep an eye on your belongings
• avoid walking alone at night
• monitor the media for new safety or security risks

Food and drink spiking

There are reports of thieves drugging and robbing travellers in nightclubs and bars in Almaty.

Methanol poisoning

Crime targeting expats and travellers

Criminals have targeted the expat community in Atyrau and Aktau in western Kazakhstan in the past. Expats have been the victims of violent attacks and muggings.

Carjackings have been reported.

Thieves posing as police officers or 'meet-and-greet' drivers at airports have robbed travellers. Official taxi drivers and police officers have ID.

To stay safe when using cars and taxis:

• if you can, pre-arrange your transport
• avoid taking unofficial taxis or taxis that have other passengers
• always keep car doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving
• if a police officer, taxi driver or official approaches you, ask to see their ID

Cyber security

Kidnapping

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.  

More information:  

• Kidnapping  

Demonstrations and protests

While the security situation is stable, in 2022, violent protests occurred in Almaty and other regions of Kazakhstan, leading to injuries and deaths.  

To stay safe during civil unrest:

• be vigilant and avoid large gatherings and protests
• monitor the media for possible unrest and avoid those areas
• follow the advice of local authorities and security announcements

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Authorities will arrest both participants and bystanders, even for non-violent demonstrations.

Overland border crossing by road or train to neighbouring countries, especially in winter, may not be possible or safe, and access to fuel may be limited. In the past, there have been tensions around the border with the Kyrgyz Republic. Security issues could emerge if tensions intensify.

If you plan to travel between Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic:

• monitor the media and local sources
• keep up to date on new security risks in the border regions

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest
• Travel advice for the Kyrgyz Republic

Terrorism is a threat worldwide and across Central Asia, including in Kazakhstan. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Foreigners have been a target. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather. 

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• be aware while in places known to be possible targets
• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism

Kazakhstan experiences natural disasters and severe weather.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur in Kazakhstan.

Severe weather

In April 2024, severe flooding affected Western and Northern Kazakhstan. A State of Emergency was declared in several regions, and over 100,000 people were evacuated.  

People have died in snow-related accidents in recent years, including:

• avalanches
• snow falling from roofs
• prolonged exposure to extreme cold
• car accidents

If a natural disaster happens:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place or carry it on you
• monitor local media and other sources, such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with friends and family

More information:

• severe weather
• flooding

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Kazakhstan.

Declare all medicine on arrival. You could face charges if you either:

• don't declare restricted medicines
• carry amounts over the legal limit

Officials may charge you for undeclared medicines even if you have a doctor's prescription and letter. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Kazakhstan for advice.

Insect-borne diseases

Visiting forested areas may expose you to tick bites. Ticks can carry diseases. They are common from Spring to Autumn.

Regularly check your body for ticks during and after visits to forest areas.

If a tick bites you:

• remove it from your body as soon as possible
• make sure you remove the whole tick
• monitor the site for any signs of infection

More information:

• Tick bite prevention

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. They include:

• typhoid
• hepatitis
• haemorrhagic fever
• tuberculosis
• brucellosis
• leishmaniasis
• rabies
• HIV/AIDS

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Talk to your GP or travel doctor about vaccinations before you leave Australia.

To protect yourself from illness:

• in rural areas, drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes in rural areas
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• avoid dogs and other mammals
• if an animal bites or scratches you, seek immediate medical help
• get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea

More information:

• Infectious diseases

There’s no agreement between Australia and Kazakhstan for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

Medical facilities in Kazakhstan are below Australian standards. Basic drugs and equipment are in short supply.

You often need to pay in cash up-front before doctors or hospitals will treat you. This includes for emergency care.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to the United Arab Emirates or another place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Law enforcement agencies in Kazakhstan cooperate closely with agencies in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.

Criminal investigations can be lengthy in Kazakhstan. You may not be allowed to leave the country during the investigation process even if your legal status is a witness.

Drugs

Penalties are severe for carrying, using or trafficking in illegal drugs. They can include prison sentences and heavy fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Photography

It's illegal to take photos:

• of airport facilities
• near military and security establishments
• near border areas
• near some official buildings
• in premises where there are bans on photography, including many larger shops and supermarkets

Bans apply even if there are no notices banning photography.

Living and working in Kazakhstan

You may need to get official documents before you go to Kazakhstan if:

• you plan to live or work there for long periods
• you plan to get married there

Kazakhstan will only recognise an Australian-issued document if it is authenticated. Find out what you need to do from an embassy or consulate of Kazakhstan before you travel.

You may need a Certificate of No Impediment from the Australian Embassy in Moscow if you plan to get married in Kazakhstan

More information:

• Legalising documents
• Living or working overseas

Other laws

Identity checks by police are common.

Always carry your passport and your registration. A certified copy, including your registration, is usually sufficient.

It's illegal to drive if your blood alcohol reading is over 0%.

It is illegal to promote or share information about non-traditional sexual orientation. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment and deportation.

Social and cultural attitudes and acceptance of same-sex relationships can be extremely limited, especially outside major cities. There is a risk of discrimination or harassment against the LGBTIQA+ community and their supporters.

Avoid public displays of affection. Exercise caution and discretion at all times, including with public comments and on social media.

Kazakhstan doesn't recognise dual nationality. Authorities may treat you as a Kazakh citizen, regardless of your Australian passport. This can limit the consular services we can provide.

If authorities find out about a second nationality, they may:

• restrict your entry
• rescind your Kazakh nationality

If you're an Australian-Kazakh dual national, you might have to do national service if you visit Kazakhstan.

In deciding which passport to travel on, think about:

• the possible implications for your Kazakh citizenship
• your national service obligations
• your ability to access Australian consular help if authorities arrest or detain you

More information:

• Embassy or consulate of Kazakhstan
• Dual nationals

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in Kazakhstan.

Same-sex relationships are legal, but not widely accepted.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, dress and behave conservatively and seek local advice.

Ramadan

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Kazakhstan. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Visa-free travel for short stays

Before you travel:

• check the dates your visa is valid
• any rules or restrictions

Visa-free entry is available for Australians. You can stay in Kazakhstan without a visa for up to 30 calendar days on each entry. The number of visits is unlimited, but the total period of stay should not exceed 90 calendar days within a 180-day period. You're not allowed to work under the visa-free arrangement.

The host individual or accommodation provider is responsible for registering travellers within three working days of their arrival at the address. This includes family and friends and all forms of accommodation operators. Check that this has been done on your behalf. See the Visa and Migration portal for details.

If you overstay your visa or breach your visa conditions, authorities may fine, jail or deport you.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Before you travel, contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Kazakhstan for details about visas, currency and customs.

Longer stays requiring a visa

You should contact your nearest embassy or consulate of Kazakhstan for further information.

Make sure you have the right visa for the purpose of your travel, especially for business visas or work permits. Check the validity dates of your visa and any associated restrictions carefully before you travel.

You may be subject to mandatory fingerprinting as part of the application process for a visa or residency permit.

Anyone who has overstayed their visa needs to apply to the local migration service for an extension and may have to pay a fine.

More information:

• Visa and Migration Portal
• Fingerprinting and genome registration in Kazakhstan

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Kazakhstan if you arrive from a country with a risk of yellow fever.

Migration card

Officials will issue you with a migration card (white slip) on entry.

Keep this card in your passport. You'll need it:

• to check into hotels
• for any official business
• to leave Kazakhstan

The migration card must contain 2 stamps.

If you didn't get a migration card on entry, or your migration card contains only one stamp, contact the nearest Migration Police office.

Medical certificate

If you plan to stay longer than 3 months, you must register with local authorities, you'll need a medical certificate showing a negative HIV result. 

Export laws

Strict rules apply to the export of antiquities.

Children 

Children travelling alone or with only one parent or guardian must carry a letter of consent for travel. Both parents must have signed the letter.

Registration

The host individual or accommodation provider is responsible for registering travellers within three working days of their arrival at the address. This includes family and friends and all forms of accommodation operators. Check that this has been done on your behalf. See the Visa and Migration portal for details.

Validity

If you're travelling to Kazakhstan, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 3 months beyond the expiry date of your visa. Your passport should also have at least one blank page for your visa.

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

The local currency is the Kazakh Tenge (KZT).

Declare amounts over USD10,000 or equivalent on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Only change your money at authorised commercial banks and exchange bureaus.

Cash payments are preferred. Large hotels accept traveller's cheques and credit cards.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Astana and Almaty.

Outside of Astana and Almaty, ATMs are limited.

Contact your bank to make sure your cards will work.

More information:

• Kazakhstan Government advice for importing cash and goods

Travel restrictions

The following areas of Kazakhstan are closed to visitors unless prior permission has been received from the Foreign Ministry, Interior Ministry, and Kazakh National Security Committee:

• the Gvardeyskiy urban-type village in Almaty region (south eastern Kazakhstan)
• the town of Baykonur
• the districts of Karmakchi and Kazalinsk in southern Kyzylorda region.

Border regions

Do not cross the border into or out of Kazakhstan illegally. Overland border crossing by road or train to neighbouring countries, especially in winter, may not be possible or safe, and access to fuel may be limited. 

Strict border controls apply to road travel between Almaty in Kazakhstan and Bishkek in the Kyrgyz Republic.

Crossing the land border between the Kyrgyz Republic and Kazakhstan by car can be slow. Customs checks can create long delays.

The border between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan may close for short periods. Before you go, check with the Kazakhstan Border Service (Russian).

Driving permits

To drive in Kazakhstan, you need both:

• a valid driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a car accident in Kazakhstan than in Australia. Hazards include:

• poor road conditions
• poor driving standards
• lack of street lighting
• pedestrians crossing streets with no warning
• snow and ice on roads during winter

Cars often don't give way to pedestrians on roads.

In rural areas, animals on roads are another hazard.

It may be difficult to access service stations in rural areas. Fuel shortages happen sometimes.

If you plan to drive:

• check your travel insurance covers it
• learn local traffic laws and driving practices
• beware of animals on the roads
• look out for pedestrians crossing streets without warning
• avoid travel at night, especially in rural areas

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check your insurance policy covers you using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use only registered taxis and limousines. Arrange them through your hotel if you can.

Public transport

Avoid public transport.

Local buses and minibuses have poor safety standards and maintenance.

Rail travel can be unreliable and dangerous due to petty crime.

Air travel

In April 2022, the EU announced that 21 Russian owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns.

In 2022, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) issued a ‘red notice’ highlighting significant safety concerns with all Russian airlines. A number of countries, including the United States and the European Union have banned Russian air carriers from their airspace. Check your insurance policy covers you for travel on your chosen airline and understand the risks.

Check Kazakhstan's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

National emergency number

Call 112.

Fire and rescue services

Call 101.

Medical emergencies

Call 103.

Police

Call 102.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australia has a Consulate in Almaty headed by an Honorary-Consul. The Consulate provides limited consular services. It conducts passport interviews but doesn't offer notarial services.

You can access a full range of consular services at the Australian Embassy in Moscow. 

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky Pereulok
Moscow 119034
Russia
Phone: (+7 495) 956-6070
Website: russia.embassy.gov.au
X: @PosolAustralia
Telegram: https://t.me/AusEmbMoscow

Australian Consulate, Kazakhstan

Esentai Tower
77/7 Al-Farabi Ave
Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan
Phone: +7 776 108 3090 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia