The Kazakh Majilis has ratified a new agreement with Armenia regulating the travel and stay of citizens between the two countries, Kazinform News Agency reports. The measure, explained by Interior Minister Yerzhan Sadenov, is intended to strengthen migration control and streamline cross-border movement.
Under the updated rules, Armenian citizens in Kazakhstan must register with internal affairs authorities after 30 days, compared to the current 90-day grace period. Since the beginning of 2025, approximately 12,000 Armenians have entered Kazakhstan, highlighting the significance of new migration regulations.
The agreement allows citizens to extend their stay beyond 90 days in line with national legislation, provided they obtain a temporary residence permit.
For travel documents, the deal introduces key changes:
- Armenian citizens can now enter Kazakhstan with an identification card, similar to Kazakhstan’s own ID system.
- Kazakh citizens will be able to travel to Armenia using an identity card, whereas previously only passports (regular, service, or diplomatic), seafarer’s ID, or return certificates were accepted.
Armenia had previously accepted the agreement on November 15, 2024, setting the stage for bilateral implementation. The Kazakh move follows recent regional steps, including the ratification of the Kazakh-Kyrgyz allied relations treaty.
Officials believe the revised rules will enhance oversight, while still allowing flexibility for longer-term stays through residence permits. The contract also symbolizes Kazakhstan and Armenia’s increased collaboration in migration management and cross-border travel facilitation.
