India announces the introduction of visa-free entry for citizens of Kazakhstan, marking a significant step toward strengthening people-to-people ties and expanding bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
The announcement was made in Astana during an official reception celebrating the 77th anniversary of India’s Republic Day. Speaking at the event, India’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Sailas Thangal, confirmed that the Government of India will grant Kazakh citizens free short-term visas for stays of up to 30 days.
The visa-free regime will apply to tourism, medical treatment, and accompanying persons. According to the ambassador, visas can be obtained either online or through direct application at the Embassy of India.
“In order to encourage bilateral tourism, the Government of India has decided to grant citizens of Kazakhstan free visas for a period of up to 30 days,” Ambassador Thangal said.
Highlighting the growing exchange of visitors, the ambassador noted that approximately 250,000 Indian nationals visited Kazakhstan in 2025, reflecting rising mutual interest in travel and cultural engagement.
Ambassador Thangal also underscored India’s strong economic performance, describing the country as the world’s fourth-largest economy and one of the fastest growing. He pointed to India’s achievements in information technology, artificial intelligence, fintech, pharmaceuticals, and digital infrastructure.
Emphasis was placed on the strategic partnership between India and Kazakhstan, including active cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, BRICS, the United Nations, and the India–Central Asia dialogue.
Bilateral trade between the two countries currently stands at around US$1 billion, with significant potential for further growth.
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Thangal congratulated guests on India’s Republic Day and expressed confidence that India–Kazakhstan relations will continue to strengthen across multiple sectors.
