Citizenship by Investment Options in Kazakhstan

1. What is the process of obtaining citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan?


The process of obtaining citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan typically involves the following steps:

1. Meeting the eligibility requirements: The first step is to make sure you meet the basic eligibility requirements for citizenship by investment. This includes being at least 18 years old, having a clean criminal record, and having a minimum net worth as determined by the Kazakhstan government.

2. Choosing an investment option: Kazakhstan offers different investment options for foreigners looking to obtain citizenship, such as buying real estate, investing in a business, or making a non-refundable contribution to the National Fund or Social Projects Development Fund.

3. Preparing required documents: Next, you will need to gather and prepare all necessary documents for your application, which may include proof of identity and financial documents.

4. Submitting the application: Once you have all the required documents, you can submit your application for citizenship by investment to the Kazakhstan government.

5. Background check and due diligence: The authorities will conduct a thorough background check on your personal and financial history to ensure that you meet all requirements and have a clean record.

6. Approval from the President of Kazakhstan: After the background check is completed, your application will be reviewed by the President of Kazakhstan, who has final decision-making authority on granting citizenship through investment.

7. Invest on approved funds/projects: If your application is approved, you will then need to transfer your investment funds to an approved fund or project in Kazakhstan.

8. Oath of loyalty: Before being granted citizenship, you will be required to take an oath of loyalty to Kazakhstan.

9. Naturalization ceremony and issuance of passport: Once all steps are completed successfully, you will attend a naturalization ceremony where you will officially become a citizen of Kazakhstan and be issued with a Kazakhstani passport.

It is important to note that the exact process may vary depending on individual circumstances and changes in legislation. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or a reputable agency specialized in citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan for guidance and assistance throughout the process.

2. What are the main benefits of obtaining citizenship through investment in Kazakhstan?


1. Visa-free travel: By obtaining citizenship through investment in Kazakhstan, investors and their families are granted visa-free access to over 75 countries including the Schengen area, Russia, Turkey, and Hong Kong.

2. Fast and efficient process: The citizenship through investment program in Kazakhstan has a relatively quick processing time of 6 months. This allows investors to obtain citizenship and the associated benefits in a timely manner.

3. Business opportunities: With its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Kazakhstan offers a favorable business environment for investors. Becoming a citizen also opens up opportunities for investments in various industries such as oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, and technology.

4. Affordable investment options: The minimum investment requirement for obtaining citizenship in Kazakhstan is significantly lower compared to other countries offering similar programs. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking affordable citizenship by investment options.

5. Family benefits: Citizenship obtained through investment extends to the investor’s family members as well, including spouse, children under the age of 18 and parents over the age of 65. This allows families to enjoy all the benefits of being citizens of Kazakhstan together.

6. Tax benefits: As a citizen of Kazakhstan, investors can take advantage of its favorable tax system which includes low personal income tax rates and exemptions for certain types of income.

7. Education and healthcare benefits: Citizen investors have access to high-quality education and healthcare systems in Kazakhstan at a subsidized cost or sometimes even free of charge.

8. Dual citizenship allowed: The government of Kazakhstan allows dual citizenship, so investors need not renounce their current nationality when obtaining Kazakhstani citizenship.

9. Citizenship by descent: Investors who obtain citizenship through investment can pass on their citizenship status to future generations through birth or adoption.

10.Diverse culture and lifestyle: As one of the largest countries in the world with a rich cultural heritage, becoming a citizen opens up opportunities to experience the diverse and vibrant lifestyle in Kazakhstan.

3. How much is the minimum required investment for citizenship in Kazakhstan?


The minimum required investment for citizenship in Kazakhstan is not specified by the government. The decision to grant citizenship is based on various factors, including the applicant’s contribution to the country and their knowledge of the Kazakh language, culture, and history. It is recommended that individuals interested in obtaining citizenship contact the Ministry of Internal Affairs for more information.

4. Are there any residency requirements for citizenship through investment in Kazakhstan?


Yes, there are residency requirements for citizenship through investment in Kazakhstan. Applicants must have a valid residence permit and reside in the country for at least five years before being eligible to apply for citizenship. During this period, they must also have a clean criminal record and demonstrate that they are financially self-sufficient.

5. What types of investments are accepted for citizenship in Kazakhstan?


According to the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Citizenship of the Republic of Kazakhstan”, applicants for citizenship through investment must have invested at least 100 million Kazakh tenge (approximately $242,000 USD) in one or several types of investments, including:

1. Investments in fixed assets, such as land, buildings, equipment, etc.
2. Contributions to the authorized capital (equity) of a legal entity registered in Kazakhstan
3. Shares or stakes in companies involved in strategic industries designated by the Government
4. Investing in government bonds or securities issued by a Kazakh government agency or national development bank
5. Investment in industrial and innovative activities endorsed by the Government and implemented through state programs and projects
6. Financing scientific research and development projects
7. Donations to state institutions or public associations aimed at promoting cultural, education or healthcare initiatives.

It is important to note that the above list is not exhaustive and other forms of investment may be considered on a case-by-case basis by the competent authorities.

6. Is dual citizenship allowed in Kazakhstan?

Yes, dual citizenship is allowed in Kazakhstan. Citizens of Kazakhstan can hold citizenship of another country while retaining their Kazakhstani citizenship.

7. Are there any language or cultural requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment in Kazakhstan?


Yes, applicants must have a basic understanding of the Kazakh language and cultural traditions in order to obtain citizenship through investment. They must also pass a Kazakh language proficiency test and have knowledge of the country’s history, political system, and traditions.

8. Do I need to have a job offer or business plan to qualify for citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan?


Yes, you need to have a job offer or a business plan in order to qualify for citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan. The job offer must be from a company registered and operating in Kazakhstan, while the business plan must outline your proposed investment in the country and its potential economic impact. Without these requirements, your application for citizenship by investment may not be considered.

9. Can my family members also obtain citizenship through my investment in Kazakhstan?


It is possible for your family members to obtain citizenship through your investment in Kazakhstan, but it is not guaranteed. Each application for citizenship will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and the final decision will be made by the Kazakhstani government. The government may take into consideration factors such as the size of your investment, your family’s ties to Kazakhstan, and their contributions to the country’s economy and society. It is important to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the relevant government agency for specific details and requirements.

10. What is the timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan?


The timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan can vary, but it is generally estimated to take at least 6-9 months. This process includes the preparation and submission of all required documents, completion of an interview and background check, and approval from the government committee for foreign investment. Additional time may be needed if any additional documents or information is requested, so the overall timeline may vary for each individual applicant.

11. Can I invest in any industry or sector for citizenship purposes in Kazakhstan?


According to the Kazakhstani citizenship law, there are no specific restrictions on the industry or sector in which an investor can invest for the purposes of obtaining citizenship. However, it is important to note that all investments must comply with the laws and regulations of Kazakhstan and should contribute to the economic development and growth of the country. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a legal advisor or immigration specialist to ensure that your investment will be eligible for citizenship purposes.

12. Is there a limit on the number of people granted citizenship by investment each year in Kazakhstan?


Yes, there are annual quotas for citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan. The quota for 2021 is set at 200 people, with 50 slots reserved for applicants from each of the four required investment categories: entrepreneurship, innovation, education, and culture. However, the government may adjust this quota based on demand and national interests.

13. What level of due diligence is conducted when applying for citizenship through investment in Kazakhstan?


When applying for citizenship through investment in Kazakhstan, a thorough level of due diligence is conducted by the Kazakhstan government. This includes background checks, source of funds verification, criminal record checks, and other investigations to ensure that the applicant meets all eligibility requirements and does not pose any security or legal risks to the country. The level of due diligence may vary depending on the specific investment program being applied for.

14. Are children born to citizens through investment automatically granted citizenship?

No, children born to citizens through investment are not automatically granted citizenship. Citizenship laws vary by country and each country has its own requirements for granting citizenship. In some cases, children may be entitled to citizenship through their parents’ investment, but it depends on the specific laws of the country. It is important for parents to research and understand the citizenship laws of the country where they are looking to invest in order to determine if their child will be eligible for citizenship through their investment.

15. Are there any restrictions on which countries can apply for citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan?

Yes, Kazakhstan’s citizenship by investment program is currently only open to citizens of specific countries, which include:

– Argentina
– Australia
– Austria
– Bahrain
– Belgium
– Brazil
– Canada
– Chile
– Czech Republic
– Denmark
– Finland
– France
– Germany
– Greece
– Hungary
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Japan
Kuwait
Luxembourg
Malaysia
Mexico
Monaco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Oman

Poland
Portugal
Qatar

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

South Africa

South Korea

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Thailand

Turkey

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

United Kingdom (UK)
United States (US)

Uruguay

16. Does receiving citizenship through investment grant me voting rights and access to government services?


Yes, receiving citizenship through investment typically grants you full voting rights and access to government services, just like any other citizen of the country. However, it is important to note that each country may have its own specific laws and regulations regarding voting rights and access to government services for citizens who have acquired citizenship through investment.

17. Is it possible to lose my newly acquired citizen status if I fail to maintain my initial investment?


It depends on the specific requirements and regulations of the country where you obtained your citizenship. Some countries have a probationary period after receiving citizenship, during which individuals must maintain their initial investment in order to retain their citizenship status. If an individual fails to maintain their investment or abide by other requirements, their citizenship may be revoked. It is important to carefully review the specific rules and conditions of your citizenship acquisition.

18. Can I include dependents such as parents or siblings on my application for citizenship by investment in Kazakhstan?

No, the citizenship by investment program in Kazakhstan only allows for the main applicant, their spouse and dependent children under the age of 18 to be included on the application.

19. Does holding another passport affect my eligibility for gaining full citizen status through investing in Kazakhstan?

If you hold multiple passports, it should not affect your eligibility for gaining full citizenship through investing in Kazakhstan. As long as you meet all the necessary requirements and criteria for the investment program, you can apply for citizenship regardless of the other passports you may hold. However, please note that holding dual citizenship may have certain implications and restrictions in terms of travel, taxation, and other legal matters. It is important to consult with a legal professional or immigration specialist before proceeding with any citizenship applications.

20. Are there any tax implications associated with gaining economic residency and/or full nationality through investing in Kazakhstan?


There may be tax implications for gaining economic residency and full nationality through investing in Kazakhstan, as each individual’s tax situation is unique and may depend on factors such as their country of origin and the type of investment made. It is recommended to consult with a tax advisor or attorney for personalized advice on any potential tax implications.