Kazakhstan investigates fake residency permits amid Russian emigrant concerns

Kazakhstan’s National Security Committee is investigating a major criminal case involving fake temporary residence permits, with dozens of Russian citizens of draft age being questioned as witnesses, according to the Slovo Zashchity Telegram channel.

Human rights activists warn the probe could lead to deportations of Russian emigrants who left the country due to the war in Ukraine. The investigation, conducted by Kazakhstan’s special services rather than migration police, suggests broader measures may be planned.

Temporary residence permits allow foreigners to stay in Kazakhstan for up to a year, but require employment and registration. A market of intermediaries offering fake permits has emerged, and many Russian emigrants have reportedly used these services.

Lawyers advise Russians at risk to leave Kazakhstan, citing cases of expedited deportations and compliance with Russian extradition requests, including high-profile critics of the Kremlin. Margarita Kuchusheva of the Anti-War Committee said, “Kazakhstan has become a categorically unsafe country for Russians.”

By Sabina Mammadli