What are the rights of Turkish citizens who have immigrated to Kazakhstan?
ENTRANCE
Historical, cultural, and economic ties between Turkey and Kazakhstan have increased the reciprocal migration of citizens from both countries. Turkish citizens prefer to migrate to Kazakhstan, particularly for reasons such as investment, trade, education, and family reunification. However, the decision to live permanently in a foreign country brings with it significant legal responsibilities and rights. In this context, the rights of Turkish citizens migrating to Kazakhstan should be considered within the framework of migration law and international agreements.
I. Legal Framework
The rights of Turkish citizens in Kazakhstan stem from three main sources:
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Kazakhstan's national legislation – the Migration Law, the Foreigners Law, the Labor Law, and education and health legislation.
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Bilateral Agreements – Mutual cooperation agreements signed between Türkiye and Kazakhstan.
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International Law – International documents relating to human rights conventions and refugee law.
These regulations ensure that Turkish citizens can live under legal protection in Kazakhstan.
II. Right of Residence
Turkish citizens can benefit from visa exemption for short-term entries into Kazakhstan. However, a residence permit is required for long-term stays.
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Temporary Residence Permit: Issued for education, short-term work, or project-based stays.
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Permanent Residence Permit: This is the first step towards long-term residency and citizenship.
Turkish citizens holding residence permits can legally reside in Kazakhstan, enter into rental agreements, and open bank accounts.
III. The Right to Work
Turkish citizens need a work permit to work in Kazakhstan. Employers apply within the framework of the foreign worker quota.
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With a work permit, Turkish citizens can work in paid jobs.
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According to the Labor Law, wages, overtime, leave, and compensation rights are at the same level as those of Kazakh citizens.
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Work safety and social security rights are also covered by the work permit.
IV. The Right to Education
Turkish citizens can study at universities in Kazakhstan with a student visa after being accepted.
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Turkish students studying at universities in Kazakhstan can benefit from scholarship opportunities.
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Children have the right to access basic education in state schools.
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Diploma equivalency processes have been simplified thanks to education agreements between Türkiye and Kazakhstan.
V. The Right to Health
Turkish citizens holding a residence permit or work permit can access healthcare services in Kazakhstan.
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Emergency medical services are available free of charge.
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Holders of long-term residence permits may be covered by state health insurance.
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The right to use private healthcare facilities is reserved.
VI. Investment and Trade Rights
Kazakhstan offers an attractive market for Turkish investors.
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Turkish citizens can establish companies and conduct commercial activities.
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They can buy real estate.
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Special residence and work permit procedures have been simplified for investors.
VII. Right to Family Reunification
Turkish citizens have the option of a family reunification visa to live with their families in Kazakhstan.
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Spouses, children, and dependent parents can be brought to Kazakhstan under the family reunification program.
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With a family reunification visa, spouses and children can benefit from education and healthcare services.
VIII. Social and Cultural Rights
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Turkish citizens have the right to establish associations and participate in cultural events in Kazakhstan.
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Social life is supported through Turkish cultural centers and schools.
IX. Fictional Case Study
Person A is a 40-year-old Turkish businessman. He settled in Almaty for investment purposes and obtained a permanent residence permit.
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Residence: Person A legally resides in Kazakhstan thanks to a permanent residence permit.
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Work: He operates as both a manager and employer in the company in which he has invested.
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Family: He brought his wife and children to Kazakhstan on a family reunification visa. His children attend a state school.
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Healthcare: He and his family utilize state hospitals and private clinics.
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Conclusion: Individual A enjoys all rights as both an investor and a resident foreigner in Kazakhstan and is integrated into society.
This case demonstrates the breadth and diversity of rights that Turkish citizens enjoy with immigrant status in Kazakhstan.
X. Rejections and Restrictions
Although Turkish citizens have many rights, certain limitations exist:
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They do not have the right to vote or stand for election (unless they have acquired citizenship).
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They cannot work in public service.
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Military service does not apply to foreigners.
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Investment restrictions may apply in certain strategic sectors.
XI. Conclusion
Turkish citizens who immigrate to Kazakhstan have extensive rights in areas such as residence, work, education, healthcare, investment, and family reunification. However, to exercise these rights, legal procedures such as residence permits, work permits, and family reunification visas must be completed correctly. Professional legal advice will help Turkish citizens establish a safe and trouble-free life in Kazakhstan.
Gamze Akbulut, Law Faculty Student
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