EU and Kazakhstan Engaged in Discussions to Simplify Schengen Visa Process for Kazakh Nationals

Key Points:

1. Kazakhstan and EU Begin Visa Facilitation Talks:
   • Kazakhstan and the European Union have initiated discussions aimed at easing the process for Kazakh citizens to obtain Schengen visas.
2. Deputy Foreign Minister's Announcement
   • Roman Vasilenko, Kazakhstan's Deputy Foreign Minister, expressed optimism that measures to simplify the acquisition of Schengen visas would be introduced soon.
3. EU as Kazakhstan's Main Trade Partner
   • The European Union remains Kazakhstan’s primary trade partner, constituting 30% of its total foreign trade. This partnership underscores the importance of facilitating travel for Kazakh citizens.

Context and Developments:

Kazakhstan and the European Union are actively working on plans to ease travel for Kazakh citizens intending to visit EU countries. During a meeting of the Cooperation Committee "Republic of Kazakhstan – European Union," Deputy Foreign Minister Roman Vasilenko emphasized the anticipation for simplified Schengen visa processes for his citizens.

Significance of the EU to Kazakhstan:

Vasilenko highlighted that the EU accounts for about 30% of Kazakhstan's foreign trade and a significant portion of foreign investments. He pointed out the need for diversifying trade, particularly by increasing the export of Kazakh products, notably agricultural goods, to EU countries.

Broader Cooperation:

In the meeting, both parties also discussed cooperation on climate change, aligning with Kazakhstan's goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The European side assured that sanctions against Russia do not target Kazakhstan.

Visa-Free Travel Agreements:

Kazakhstan has established bilateral visa-free travel agreements with over 20 countries, including several post-Soviet states, allowing for stays of up to 90 days with certain registration requirements. Additionally, Kazakhstan has introduced a unilateral visa-free regime for citizens of China, India, and Iran, permitting them to stay in Kazakhstan for up to 14 days per visit, with a maximum of 42 days within a 180-day period.

Visa Requirements for Kazakh Citizens Visiting the EU:

Despite Kazakhstan's unilateral introduction of a visa regime for EU citizens in 2017, Kazakh nationals still need to apply for a Schengen visa to enter the EU. Kazakhstan is now requesting the EU to reduce the number of required documents and increase the visa issuance rate. 

To apply for a Schengen visa, Kazakh citizens must provide:
1. Proof of accommodation booking in an EU country.
2. A flight reservation from Kazakhstan to the EU and back.
3. Proof of purchased travel health insurance with medical coverage of €30,000.
4. Proof of visa fee payment.
5. Proof of sufficient financial means.

By addressing these requirements and easing the process, Kazakhstan aims to enhance travel convenience for its citizens and strengthen economic and cultural ties with the European Union.