Kazakhstan changes rules for obtaining a passport

Tengrinews.kz - Kazakhstan has revised the exam requirements for those seeking to obtain or restore citizenship. The Minister of Science and Higher Education signed a new order changing the assessment system.

To pass the test successfully, applicants must now score:

• 15 points in the state language (previously 36);
• 20 points in the Constitution (previously 9);
• 15 points in the history of Kazakhstan (unchanged).

Why the change

The focus has shifted from language proficiency to knowledge of the Constitution. The exam remains mandatory, but the requirements are now more balanced: less emphasis on the Kazakh language score, and more on citizens’ rights and responsibilities.

When the new rules take effect

The document will come into force after its first official publication. The order has already been sent for registration to the Ministry of Justice and will be published on the website of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

Earlier, officials announced that Kazakhstan’s national passport would soon receive a design update, with the iconic snow leopard set to appear in the new version.