How a foreigner gets an IIN in Kazakhstan

What the IIN is

The IIN (individual identification number) is a unique 12-digit number assigned once for life. It is entered into the state population database and used in all dealings with the government, banks and employers. In essence, it's your key to official life in Kazakhstan.

What it's used for

Without an IIN almost nothing official is possible in Kazakhstan. You'll need it to:

• open a bank account and get a card;
• apply for temporary or permanent residence;
• get an e-signature and use the eGov portal;
• register an LLP or sole proprietorship;
• buy property and register ownership;
• get a SIM card, an employment contract, insurance and utilities.

How to get it: step by step

The IIN is obtained in person at a PSC (Public Service Center). It cannot be done by proxy. A phone number is required — the IIN is sent to it. The order is usually:

• prepare your international passport; if you don't have one — a notarised translation of your national (internal) passport;
• get a SIM card in your own name — it's issued on your international passport, no IIN needed, so do it first;
• come to the nearest PSC, submit the application and documents, provide your phone number;
• the IIN arrives by SMS with a link to your number — usually within 24 hours (just like when applying for an RVP).

Documents, timing and cost

You'll need: an application, your international passport (or, if you don't have one, a notarised translation of your internal passport) and a phone number. The IIN usually arrives within 24 hours: an SMS with a link is sent to your number. It's inexpensive — the main cost is the notarised passport translation (a few thousand tenge).

Can it be done remotely

As of 2026 — no. A consular-issuance project abroad existed but has ended: from 1 January 2026 a foreigner's IIN is issued only inside Kazakhstan, in person at a PSC. So plan to get the IIN among your first tasks after arrival.

Common mistakes

To avoid wasting time:

• not preparing the notarised passport translation in advance — you'll have to come back;
• relying on a paid "remote IIN" — in 2026 such services are not legally valid and are risky;
• coming with a passport about to expire — sort that out first.