Business Licenses and Permits in Kazakhstan
Overview of Licensing in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan has implemented a fully digital licensing regime through the official portal eLicense.kz. This platform enables businesses to apply for over 500 types of licensed and regulated activities, including sectors such as construction, industry, telecommunications, and international trade.
Applications are submitted electronically and processed directly by the relevant government authorities. Applicants can monitor the real-time status of their applications throughout all stages of review.
In addition, the platform functions as a unified state register of licenses, allowing verification of the validity and status of any license issued in Kazakhstan—an essential due diligence tool for investors and counterparties.
International Recognition
The Electronic Licensing System of Kazakhstan received global recognition, winning first place in the “E-Business” category at the WSIS Project Prizes 2013 in Geneva. The competition included over 280 projects from 64 countries.
Legal Framework
Licensing and permitting procedures are governed by the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan On Permits and Notifications, which establishes a three-tier regulatory system:
1. License (High-Risk Activities)
A license is required for activities involving a high level of risk or public safety impact. It grants the legal right to carry out specific regulated activities.
2. Permit (Medium-Risk Activities)
A permit confirms compliance with regulatory requirements for activities that do not pose high risk but still require state oversight.
3. Notification (Low-Risk Activities)
Certain activities require only a notification procedure, where the business informs the authorities about the commencement or termination of operations.
Key Licensed Sectors in Kazakhstan
Under Article 28 of the Law, licensing applies to a wide range of industries, including:
- Television and radio broadcasting
- Architecture, urban planning, and construction
- Oil & gas (hydrocarbons)
- Industrial production
- Telecommunications and IT (informatization)
- Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
- Use of atomic energy
- Information security
- Arms and explosives circulation
- Alcohol and tobacco production
- Financial services
- Export and import operations
- Gambling business
- Transport and logistics
- Veterinary and agricultural activities
- Forensic and expert services
A comprehensive register of all permits and subcategories is provided in the annexes to the Law.
Application Requirements
To obtain a license or permit, applicants must typically:
- Obtain a valid electronic digital signature (EDS)
- Submit an application via eLicense.kz
- Pay the applicable state licensing fee
- Provide documentation confirming compliance with qualification requirements
“Silent Consent” Rule (Deemed Approval)
Kazakhstan applies a business-friendly principle known as “silent consent.”
If the licensing authority does not respond within the statutory review period (typically 15 working days):
- The applicant is deemed approved (recognized as a licensee)
- The authority must issue the formal license within 5 working days
This mechanism significantly reduces administrative delays and protects business timelines.
Why This Matters for Investors
- Fast-track digital licensing system
- Transparent verification of licenses
- Predictable regulatory timelines
- Strong legal safeguards for businesses
Kazakhstan is one of the most advanced jurisdictions in Central Asia in terms of digital public services and licensing efficiency.
Legal Support from Bond Stone
By engaging Bond Stone Law Firm, you gain:
- End-to-end support in obtaining licenses and permits in Kazakhstan
- Regulatory analysis of whether your activity requires a license, permit, or notification
- Preparation and submission of applications via eLicense.kz
- Liaison with government authorities
- expedited issue of permits (fast-track where applicable)