Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has drafted a resolution that would require foreigners to obtain a paid electronic entry permit to enter the country. Meduza reports.

The cost of obtaining such a document is not yet known.

The draft prepared by Kazakhstan’s Interior Ministry states that the fee would be used to develop digital infrastructure and protect personal data. The introduction of rules for the paid digital permit is planned by the end of 2026.

Digital Business reports that the draft does not specify which categories of foreigners would be subject to the new rule, so it is premature to say that it would apply to everyone.

The draft was developed based on an order issued by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev providing for the digitalization of migration controls. In June, Tokayev signed a law that led to amendments to migration legislation and, according to the document, made it possible to introduce an electronic entry permit for the country.

Following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, Kazakhstan became one of the destinations for mass emigration from Russia. After staying in the country for 90 days, an emigrant can obtain a temporary residence permit.