Which U.S. Visas Are No Longer Issued to Kazakhstani Citizens?

Kazakhstan is not currently negotiating with the United States regarding the resumption of immigrant visa issuance. This was stated by Alibek Bakayev, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, while commenting on recent U.S. visa restrictions for citizens of Kazakhstan.

As of January 21, the U.S. Department of State has suspended the issuance of visas to citizens of 75 countries, including Kazakhstan. The reason cited for this move is an effort to curb the activities of applicants who "might become a public charge." This suspension has been implemented for an indefinite period.

According to Bakayev, the restrictions apply exclusively to immigrant visas.

"Student visas, visas for medical treatment, and tourist and business visas are still being issued as before. There are no changes regarding these categories in this case," the Vice Minister noted in response to a question from an Informburo.kz correspondent on the sidelines of the Senate.

He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan is not discussing the possibility of resuming immigrant visa issuance with the American side, emphasizing that every state has the right to independently decide on entry restrictions. According to him, Kazakhstan cannot interfere in the internal policy of a third country.

Bakayev also addressed a question regarding the potential simplification of tourist visa procedures for Kazakhstanis.

"We cannot fly to America without a visa, but we already have a simplified regime. Citizens of Kazakhstan receive visas for as long as 10 years. If the American side, or any other country, does not issue a visa, there are specific reasons for that. Therefore, in this case, I believe this is not the number one issue," the Deputy Minister said.