The Ministry of Labor of Kazakhstan plans to tighten work visa regulations for 100% foreign-owned companies. According to the draft amendments, only the following will be able to work without an employment permit:
One director (chief executive);
One deputy director.
For all other foreign employees, companies will need to obtain quotas-based work permits, complicating the hiring process.
The purpose of the new regulations is to combat quota circumvention and illegal migration. These amendments are based on Article 36-1 of Kazakhstan's Law "On Population Migration." Although the changes have not yet taken effect, companies should begin preparations now to ensure timely compliance with the new requirements
The upcoming adjustments will complicate the hiring process for foreign specialists. Companies will face increased bureaucratic burdens, as work permits will now be required for most foreign employees. Consequently, many businesses will need to revise their HR policies, potentially placing greater emphasis on hiring local specialists.
Action plan for companies
To effectively prepare for the upcoming changes, Acsour experts recommend:
Conduct a staff audit: analyze the current staff and determine how many foreign nationals are currently working without a permit.
Assess possible risks: identify which positions or business processes may be at risk due to the new rules.
Consider alternative solutions: explore the possibilities of switching to local hiring or initiate preparation for obtaining the necessary permits for key foreign specialists.
Support from Acsour
Acsour is ready to provide comprehensive support in migration and labor law issues for the smooth adaptation of your business.:
Personnel structure analysis: identify employees affected by the new requirements and assess potential risks.
Work permit processing: full legal and documentary support of the permit process.
Expert consultations: recommendations on the adaptation of personnel policy and work processes in accordance with the new standards and the general labor legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Selection of local personnel: assistance in the search and hiring of qualified Kazakhstani specialists, if replacement of foreign personnel is required.
Now is the best time to prepare, submit a request, and our experts will help your business maintain stability in the face of new requirements.
Source: Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan sour.