Setting Up a Company in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is Central Asia's largest economy — a G20-aspirant nation with vast hydrocarbon resources, the AIFC common-law financial hub, and a strategic position on the China-Europe trade corridor.
Kazakhstan's economy is anchored by oil and minerals but is diversifying aggressively under the Nurly Zhol and Kazakhstan-2050 development programmes. The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), modelled on the Dubai International Financial Centre, provides an English common-law framework, independent courts (with DIFC bench members), and a zero-tax regime for qualifying financial sector participants. Kazakhstan is a member of the EAEU, giving market access across Russia, Belarus, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan.
Key facts for 2026
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Corporate income tax | 20% (standard rate) |
| VAT | 12% (standard rate) |
| Foreign ownership | 100% in most sectors |
| AIFC tax exemption | 0% CIT, 0% VAT, 0% WHT for AIFC participants until 2066 |
| SEZ tax holiday | 0–10 years CIT depending on SEZ and activity |
Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC)
The AIFC is Kazakhstan's most significant structural innovation for attracting foreign investment. Established in Astana (capital city), it operates under English common law with independent courts and an arbitration centre. AIFC participants are exempt from Kazakhstani CIT, VAT and withholding tax until 2066. Qualifying activities include financial services, fintech, professional services, technology and innovation, and holding company functions. The AIFC is increasingly used as a regional HQ and fund domicile for Central Asia-focused businesses.
Onshore structures — LLP and JSC
Outside the AIFC, the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP / ТОО) is the standard vehicle — analogous to an LLC in other jurisdictions. It requires a minimum charter capital of KZT 100 tenge (essentially nominal) for small businesses. A Joint Stock Company (JSC / АО) is required for regulated entities, listed companies and large investments. Foreign investors can own 100% in most sectors without a Kazakhstani partner. Registration is handled through the eGov portal.
The incorporation process
- For AIFC: register through the AIFC Authority's online portal; English-language documentation accepted.
- For onshore LLP: register through Kazakhstan's eGov portal or via a Public Services Centre; typically 1–3 days.
- Obtain a Business Identification Number (BIN) — Kazakhstan's company tax and registration code.
- Register with the State Revenue Committee for CIT and VAT.
- Open a corporate bank account at a Kazakhstani second-tier bank.
Frequently asked questions
What is the AIFC and why is it significant?
The Astana International Financial Centre is an English common-law financial hub in Kazakhstan's capital offering 0% CIT, VAT and withholding tax for participants until 2066, with independent courts. It is Central Asia's most developed international financial platform and increasingly used for regional HQ and fund structures.
What is the corporate tax rate in Kazakhstan?
20% standard onshore rate; 12% VAT. AIFC participants pay 0% on both. SEZ entities can access CIT holidays of 0–10 years.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Kazakhstan company?
Yes, for most sectors. Strategic sectors — oil and gas, mining, media, telecoms and defence — may require government notification or approval for foreign acquisitions above defined thresholds.
Official sources
This guide is general information prepared by ARM Management and is current as at July 2026. It is not legal advice. Confirm with Kazakh Invest or an advisor before incorporating.