Kazakhstan
Korea Visa Guide
Kazakhstan is home to a significant 고려인 (Koryo-saram) ethnic Korean community, making it one of the key countries for F-4 Overseas Korean and H-2 Working Visit visa applicants. Kazakhstan is also an EPS partner country, and Kazakh IT and engineering professionals are increasingly present in Korea's tech sector.
Visa required — C-3 needed for short-term visits
Kazakh passport holders are not eligible for visa-free entry to Korea. A C-3 tourist visa is required. Ethnic Koreans may apply for C-3-8 simplified processing.
Visa-free entry?
No — C-3 visa required for tourism
K-ETA eligible?
No
F-4 eligible?
Yes, if Korean descent (고려인)
H-2 eligible?
Yes, for ethnic Korean-Kazakhs
EPS partner country?
Yes
Kazakhs in Korea
~20,000 residents
Korean Embassy in Kazakhstan
Astana + Consulate in Almaty
Overseas Korean (고려인 / F-4)
PopularKazakh citizens of Korean descent (고려인) can apply for F-4 with proof of Korean lineage. University graduates, KIIP Stage 4+ completers, and those aged 60+ also qualify even without ethnic background.
Working Visit (방문취업)
PopularEthnic Korean-Kazakhs are eligible for H-2, allowing work in approved sectors for 3–5 years. Entry via points-based selection, family connection, or special allocation.
Non-Professional Employment (EPS)
PopularKazakhstan is an EPS partner country. Apply through Kazakhstan's Ministry of Labour and Social Protection in cooperation with HRD Korea. Must pass EPS-TOPIK.
Skilled Worker
Kazakh professionals in IT, engineering, and other skilled fields can apply for E-7. Kazakhstan's strong STEM education system produces many qualified candidates.
Short-Term Visit
Kazakh citizens require a C-3 visa for short-term visits to Korea. Apply at the Korean Embassy in Almaty or Astana.
Do Kazakh 고려인 qualify for F-4 and H-2?
Yes. 고려인 from Kazakhstan are recognized as overseas Koreans under Korean law (재외동포법). Proof of Korean ancestry is required — typically a 출생증명서 (birth certificate) and 가족관계 확인 서류 (family relationship documents) tracing your lineage to Korean-born ancestors. The documents should be officially translated into Korean and apostilled or authenticated.
What sectors are open to Kazakh EPS E-9 workers?
Manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fisheries, and service sectors approved under the EPS system. Kazakhstan is particularly active in manufacturing sector placement.
Are there Korean language resources for 고려인 in Kazakhstan?
Yes. Korean cultural centres (한국문화원) and Korean language education programmes are available in Almaty and Astana. KIIP (Korea Immigration Integration Programme) preparatory courses are available online and help with both language and the KIIP aptitude test required for F-2-99 and F-5.
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