Kazakhstan Capital Gains Tax Guide 2026

CGT for Companies — Taxed at 20% CIT

For corporate taxpayers, capital gains are treated as ordinary business income and included in the company's taxable profit. The gain is calculated as the sale price minus the cost basis (acquisition cost plus capital improvements, less accumulated depreciation). Depreciation recapture rules may apply when fixed assets are sold at a gain above their tax-written-down value. Corporate capital losses can offset other capital gains in the same year and be carried forward for up to 10 years.

CGT for Individuals — Taxed at 10% IIT

Individuals pay capital gains tax at the standard IIT rate of 10% on gains from the sale of assets other than personal property. The gain is the difference between the sale price and the acquisition cost. Key rules for individuals include:

• Shares held >3 years: Exempt from IIT — this encourages long-term equity investment
• Property: Gains from sale of real estate are taxed at 10% IIT, with allowable deductions for acquisition cost and improvements
• Personal property: Gains from sale of personal vehicles, household goods, and other personal effects are generally not taxable
• Securities traded on KASE: Gains from trading on the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange may qualify for reduced treatment

3-Year Exemption for Shares

Individuals who hold shares in Kazakh or foreign companies for more than 3 years are exempt from IIT on any capital gains realised upon sale. This exemption applies to both listed and unlisted shares and is a significant incentive for long-term equity investment. The holding period is calculated from the date of acquisition to the date of disposal. For shares acquired at different times, the first-in-first-out (FIFO) method is used to determine which shares are sold and whether the 3-year threshold is met. This exemption does not apply to corporate shareholders.

Property Gains

Gains from the sale of real estate are included in ordinary income and taxed at 10% (individuals) or 20% (companies). The gain is calculated as the sale price minus the documented acquisition cost and allowable improvements. If no cost documentation is available, a standard deduction of 30% of the sale price may be applied. Primary residence sales may qualify for reduced taxation if the property has been held for a minimum period. Non-residents selling Kazakh property are subject to 15% WHT on the gross sale price (unless reduced under a DTA).

FAQs

Is there an annual CGT allowance for individuals?

No, Kazakhstan does not provide an annual tax-free allowance for capital gains. All gains are taxable from the first tenge, except for the 3-year share holding exemption and gains on personal property.

Can capital losses be carried forward?

Companies may carry forward capital losses for up to 10 years. Individuals may offset capital losses against capital gains in the same year, but unused individual capital losses cannot generally be carried forward unless the individual is registered as a sole proprietor.

Do non-residents pay CGT on Kazakh assets?

Yes, non-residents are subject to CGT at 15% on gains from the sale of assets located in Kazakhstan, including shares in Kazakh companies and Kazakh real estate. The buyer is generally required to withhold the tax from the purchase price and remit it to the tax authorities.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Kazakhstan capital gains tax for the 2026 tax year. Tax laws and rates may change. Always consult with a qualified Kazakh tax advisor or the State Revenue Committee for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.