Guide to Obtaining a Kazakhstan Investor Visa (C5): Requirements and Process for Foreign Nationals
Foreign nationals seeking to invest or conduct business in Kazakhstan must secure the Kazakhstan Investor Visa (C5). This visa is essential for foreign investors looking to establish companies, acquire stakes in existing businesses, or engage in commercial activities in Kazakhstan. Under Kazakhstan’s Law on Migration, engaging in business activities, such as registering a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), without a business immigration visa is prohibited. The C5 visa is mandatory for all adult foreign investors entering the Kazakhstan market.
How to Obtain a Kazakhstan Investor Visa (C5)
The process of securing a C5 visa is divided into two main stages:
Stage 1: Obtaining a Single-Entry Kazakhstan Investor Visa (C5)
Initially, foreign investors must apply for a single-entry Investor Visa (C5), which is valid for up to 90 days. This can be processed in the applicant’s home country or upon arrival at designated airports in Kazakhstan.
A key requirement is an invitation letter from a Kazakhstan-based company, along with a visa support numberprovided by the Migration Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. If no company is yet established, a Kazakh law firm can issue the invitation letter on the investor’s behalf.
Documents Required for Stage 1:
Medical certificates proving absence of restricted diseases
Medical insurance
Certificate of no criminal record from the country of residence
Certificate confirming no business activity prohibition by court order
After the invitation is processed, the visa support number is typically issued within 5-7 business days. However, in cases requiring additional approval from the National Security Committee, this may extend up to 30 days.
Obligations After Obtaining the Single-Entry C5 Visa:
Company Registration: Foreign investors must either register a new company or become shareholders in an existing entity within the visa’s validity period.
Capital Deposit: Investors must deposit no less than the minimum capital requirement into a local second-tier bank, as stipulated by Kazakhstan law.
Stage 2: Extending to a Multiple-Entry Investor Visa (C5)
Upon fulfilling the initial company registration and capital deposit obligations, investors can extend their visa to a multiple-entry Kazakhstan Investor Visa (C5). This extension is valid for up to 2 years (or up to 3 years for ethnic Kazakhs) and is processed through the Migration Service of Kazakhstan.
Documents Required for Stage 2:
Application letter from the registered company
Power of attorney for the company’s representative
Original passport of the foreign investor
Completed visa application form
One recent passport-sized photo (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
Visa extension processing usually takes 7-10 business days, though further review by the National Security Committee could extend this period to 30 days.
Reasons for Visa Denial
Several factors could lead to the denial of a Kazakhstan Investor Visa (C5), including:
A criminal record
Presence of prohibited diseases
Failure to complete company registration or capital deposit within the specified timeline
Submission of incomplete documents or a non-compliant business plan
Failure to comply with business registration requirements may also result in a reduced stay, as determined by local authorities.
Family Reunification and Dependent Visas (C2 Visa)
Family members of foreign investors, including spouses (with a minimum of three years of marriage), children under 18, and dependent parents, can apply for the C2 visa. This visa permits family reunification for up to 1 year and allows adult dependents to work in Kazakhstan.
Employment Opportunities for Company Founders Under the C5 Visa
Foreign investors holding a C5 visa can work as directors of their registered companies, in accordance with Kazakhstan’s labor laws.
Additional Requirements for Foreign Employers and Employees
Foreign employers are required to notify the authorities of the foreign employee’s status, and the foreign national must obtain an Individual Identification Number (IIN) for tax and legal purposes after obtaining the C5 visa.
Conclusion
Securing a Kazakhstan Investor Visa (C5) is an essential step for foreign investors looking to do business in Kazakhstan. While the process can be complex, following the visa application steps and meeting legal obligations for company registration and capital deposits is crucial. With expert legal guidance, investors can navigate Kazakhstan’s growing market and successfully establish their business.
For those looking to streamline the process, BOND STONE International Law Firm offers comprehensive assistance in obtaining the C5 visa, legal entity registration, and ensuring full compliance with Kazakhstan’s business regulations.
Contact us today for professional support in securing your Kazakhstan Investor Visa and exploring business opportunities in this dynamic market.
