Kazakhstan to Offer Free ID Cards Starting 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, Kazakhstani citizens will not have to pay state fees when obtaining an ID card for the first time or replacing it after its expiration, according to Polisia.kz.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs reported that digitalization of the documentation process is being systematically implemented. Currently, passports can be issued in electronic format not only within Kazakhstan but also abroad. This service is available in 99 foreign institutions across 71 countries, allowing Kazakh citizens abroad to receive a passport in one month instead of several months as before.

The Ministry emphasized that efforts in this area will continue, aiming to simplify services for citizens as much as possible.

According to Aslan Atalykov, Chairman of the Migration Service Committee, the unified information system manages issuing individual identification numbers, registering citizens, and processing passports and ID cards.

He confirmed that starting in 2026, both first-time issuance and replacement of expired ID cards will be free of charge.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs noted that this initiative is designed to simplify the document issuance process and reduce financial burdens on citizens.