Kazakhstan Special Economic Zones Guide

Overview — SEZ Tax Incentives

Special Economic Zones in Kazakhstan are designated areas where qualifying businesses benefit from a package of tax incentives designed to promote investment, job creation, and economic diversification. The legal framework is established by the Law on Special Economic Zones and the Tax Code. The key tax benefits for SEZ participants include:

• 0% Corporate Income Tax: On qualifying activities for 5-10 years (extendable depending on investment volume)
• VAT exemption: Exemption from VAT on goods and services supplied within the SEZ for qualifying activities
• Customs duty relief: Exemption from customs duties on equipment, raw materials, and components imported for SEZ activities
• Land tax exemption: Exemption from land tax for the duration of the SEZ participation agreement
• Property tax exemption: Exemption from property tax on assets used within the SEZ

Astana Hub — IT and Innovation Park

Astana Hub is Kazakhstan's leading technology park, established as a Special Economic Zone for IT and innovation companies. Located in Nur-Sultan (Astana), it offers:

• 0% CIT: On qualifying IT activities for 5 years, extendable
• 0% VAT: On supplies of goods and services for IT activities
• 0% Social tax: Reduced social tax rate for IT company employees
• 0% Land and property tax: On assets used within the hub
• Streamlined procedures: Accelerated visa and work permit processing for foreign IT specialists
• Co-working and infrastructure: Modern office spaces, data centres, R&D facilities

Over 1,000 IT companies are registered at Astana Hub, working in areas including artificial intelligence, blockchain, fintech, cybersecurity, and software development.

AIFC Tax Regime

The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) provides a separate preferential tax regime for financial services and fintech companies operating within its jurisdiction. Key features include:

• 0% CIT: On income from qualifying financial and fintech activities for 25 years (until 2050)
• 0% VAT: On supplies of financial services within the AIFC
• 0% WHT: On dividends, interest, and capital gains paid to non-residents from AIFC-based activities
• Common law framework: AIFC operates under English common law with an independent court system
• No currency controls: Free capital movement and foreign exchange within the AIFC
• Licensing: Regulated by the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA)

The AIFC is modelled on financial centres such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the London Stock Exchange. It hosts banks, insurance companies, asset managers, fintech firms, and digital asset platforms.

Other Major SEZs

Kazakhstan operates several other SEZs across different regions, each focused on specific industries:

• Aktau Sea Port (Морпорт Ақтау): Logistics, shipping, and port-related services in the Caspian Sea region
• Astana Business Centre (Астана Бизнес Орталығы): Commercial services, trade, and business support
• Almaty (Алматы Арнайы Экономикалық Аймағы): Commercial activities, trade, and services
• Taraz Chemical Park (Тараз Химиялық Парк): Chemical manufacturing and processing
• South Kazakhstan (Оңтүстік Қазақстан): Textile and garment manufacturing
• Saryarka (Сарыарқа): Metal processing and machine building
• Khorgos — Eastern Gate (Қорғас — Шығыс Қақпасы): Logistics hub on the China-Kazakhstan border

Qualification Requirements

To qualify for SEZ benefits, companies must meet specific requirements that vary by zone:

• Registration: The company must be registered as a resident of the SEZ and sign a participation agreement with the SEZ management company
• Activity restriction: At least 90% of revenue must come from qualifying activities specified for that SEZ
• Investment threshold: Minimum capital investment requirements apply, varying by SEZ (typically KZT 500 million to KZT 5 billion)
• Employment: Minimum job creation targets must be met within specified timeframes
• Local content: Certain SEZs require a minimum percentage of local goods and services in operations

FAQs

Can a foreign company participate in a Kazakh SEZ?

Yes, foreign companies may establish subsidiaries within Kazakh SEZs and benefit from the same tax incentives as domestic companies. There are no nationality restrictions on SEZ participation. Foreign SEZ participants benefit from the same investment protection guarantees under Kazakh law and international treaties.

How long do SEZ tax benefits last?

The duration of tax benefits varies by SEZ and investment volume, typically ranging from 5 to 10 years. The AIFC regime provides benefits for 25 years (until 2050). Benefits may be extended for additional periods for large-scale strategic investments with government approval.

What happens if an SEZ participant fails to meet qualification requirements?

If an SEZ participant fails to meet the investment, employment, or activity requirements, the tax benefits may be retroactively withdrawn. The company would be required to repay the tax benefits received plus penalties and interest. Regular compliance reporting to the SEZ management company is mandatory.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Kazakhstan Special Economic Zones and tax incentives for the 2026 tax year. SEZ regimes, qualification requirements, and benefits may change. Always consult with a qualified Kazakh tax advisor or the Ministry of National Economy for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.