Kazakhstanis reminded of new stay rules in Russia

Tengrinews.kz – Kazakhstan’s citizens have been reminded about updated migration rules now in force in Russia since January 1, 2025.

Under the new regulations, foreigners — including Kazakhstanis — may stay in Russia no more than 90 days per calendar year without registration, regardless of the number of entries and exits, according to Kazakhstan’s Committee for Road Transport and Transport Control.

“The permitted period of stay for foreign nationals without registration, including citizens of Kazakhstan, has been reduced from 180 to 90 days per calendar year, regardless of the number of entries and exits,” the committee stated.

Previously, Kazakhstanis could remain in Russia without registration for up to six months — a convenient rule especially for international freight drivers and transport companies. Now, the 90-day limit applies to them as well.

“These requirements also extend to drivers engaged in international road transportation,” the committee added.

However, discussions are underway in Moscow about possible adjustments for Kazakh transport workers, given the importance of cross-border logistics between the two countries.

Until a final decision is made, authorities advise Kazakh transport companies to check their drivers’ stay durations in Russia in advance to avoid potential violations and penalties.

Earlier, on June 30, Russia also implemented new entry procedures for all foreign citizens, including Kazakhstanis. Each visitor now receives a digital profile containing passport data, a facial image, and fingerprints.

Kazakhstanis can still travel to Russia visa-free, but must comply with additional requirements:

• biometric registration at checkpoints (e.g., Moscow airports, Mashtakovo crossing in Orenburg region);
• completing an online entry form through the ruID app;
• SIM card registration only via biometric identification;
• mandatory medical examination and fingerprinting for stays longer than 90 days.

Additionally, Russia introduced stricter border-entry rules: frequent traffic law violations may now serve as grounds for denying entry for up to three years.