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Kandas: the status for ethnic Kazakhs and the path to residence

SHANYRAQ Legal, Legal team · 5/30/2026

For ethnic Kazakhs returning to their historical homeland, a special status applies — kandas, with a simplified procedure and support measures.

Who a kandas is

A foreigner or stateless person of Kazakh ethnicity who moves to Kazakhstan for permanent residence. The status grants access to adaptation, a number of benefits, and simplified procedures for residence and admission to citizenship.

How to obtain it

  1. Applying to the authorised bodies (kandas adaptation and integration centres, the migration service portal).
  2. Granting of the status.
  3. Further arrangement of residence.

Separate visas (C1, C10) and simplifications are provided for ethnic Kazakhs.

What matters

The list of documents and support measures should be clarified at the kandas centres and on egov.kz; prepare proof of ethnicity and ties to Kazakhstan in advance.

Related materials: Residence permit and permanent residence · Immigration to Kazakhstan.


This material is for reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Rules, deadlines and rates change — before acting, verify against primary sources (egov.kz, adilet.zan.kz, vmp.gov.kz) or consult the lawyers of SHANYRAQ Legal.