The European Union and the Republic of Kazakhstan are progressing in their diplomatic engagement, with EU member states recently approving a mandate for the European Commission to begin formal negotiations on a visa facilitation agreement. This development marks a notable step forward in strengthening bilateral relations and expanding mobility opportunities for Kazakh citizens.
The envisioned agreement is designed to streamline the process for Kazakh nationals applying for Schengen visas, making travel to the EU more accessible and efficient. Among the key priorities for Kazakhstan in the negotiations are several crucial reforms to the current visa application process. These include shortening visa processing times, reducing the cost of visa applications, increasing the issuance of long-term multiple-entry visas, simplifying documentation requirements, and establishing preferential categories for certain groups such as students, business travelers, and cultural professionals.
However, despite the positive developments, the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs has cautioned that it is premature to speculate on when the agreement might be signed or enter into force. In a statement to the Astana Times, the Ministry emphasized that the timeline for finalizing the agreement depends on the successful conclusion of negotiations and the completion of requisite legal and administrative procedures on both sides.
The potential agreement reflects Kazakhstan’s broader strategic goal of enhancing people-to-people ties and economic cooperation with the EU. Visa facilitation has long been a key item on the agenda, and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev reiterated its importance during his recent meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Their discussions took place on the sidelines of the inaugural Central Asia–European Union Summit, held earlier this month in Uzbekistan. During the meeting, both leaders welcomed the tangible progress made so far in the visa dialogue and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing mutual cooperation.
To bolster its case for a facilitated visa regime, Kazakhstan has highlighted its proactive approach to migration management. Authorities have assured EU counterparts that sufficient measures are in place to prevent any rise in irregular migration as a result of eased travel rules. Furthermore, Kazakhstan has expressed its willingness to cooperate with the EU on the readmission of its citizens found to be staying unlawfully within the bloc's territory.
The strong demand for Schengen visas among Kazakh nationals underscores the relevance of the proposed agreement. According to recent statistics published by SchengenVisaInfo, citizens of Kazakhstan submitted 159,072 applications for Schengen visas in 2023 alone. Of these, 143,970 were approved, while 14,285 applications were rejected. The figures demonstrate both the high level of interest in travel to Europe and the need for a more efficient and transparent visa process.
Once signed and implemented, the visa facilitation agreement is expected to bring wide-ranging benefits—not only by making travel easier for Kazakh citizens, but also by enhancing business, educational, and cultural exchanges. It would also contribute to the broader goals of regional stability, connectivity, and economic integration between the EU and Central Asia.
As negotiations move forward, both sides are expected to maintain close diplomatic engagement to finalize the terms of the agreement. If successful, the visa facilitation deal could serve as a model for similar partnerships in the region, reflecting a shared commitment to open dialogue, mutual respect, and deeper integration.
