Over 14,000 migrants arrive in Kazakhstan in 1H24, majority from China and CIS

Kazakhstan has recorded a significant rise in migration from China and CIS countries during 1H24, according to Askarbek Yertayev, Vice Minister of Labor and Social Protection. The country’s migration balance has remained positive since 2022.

In total, more than 14,000 people arrived in Kazakhstan for permanent residence during the reporting period, while approximately 7,000 individuals left the country. This has resulted in a net positive migration of around 7,300 people.

Yertayev emphasized that most migrants relocating to Kazakhstan originate from China and CIS states. Additionally, a notable portion of these migrants possess higher education qualifications, particularly in technical fields, education, and economics, contributing to the country’s skilled workforce.

Internal migration within Kazakhstan has also increased considerably. During the first half of 2024, around 688,000 people moved within the country, representing a 1.7-fold increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent remain the primary destinations for internal migrants, with over 64,000 people moving to Astana, nearly 60,000 to Almaty, and more than 31,000 to Shymkent during this period.

Despite the positive migration trends, media outlets reported earlier this year that four additional regions in Kazakhstan might face labour shortages due to low birth rates and high outmigration. Experts also foresee a trend of young people leaving Kazakhstan due to economic and social factors.

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