Be sure to have a copy of the invitation and the telex number when applying for a visa. Except in emergencies, visas are no longer issued at the Almaty airport. Registration with OVIR is very important for travelers staying in Kazakstan for more than three days, and must be completed within three business days of arrival. A letter from the inviting organization, two completed applications, and one passport-size photo are required for registration. Visa Terms and Costs Be sure to allow adequate time for processing your visa application.
Fees change frequently and with little notice, and are considerably higher for expedited processing.
OVIR registration fees are based on the length of a traveler's stay in Kazakstan. Visitors planning to stay longer than three months must present a certificate indicating a negative HIV test conducted no more than one month prior to registration. Evidence of an HIV test performed outside Kazakstan is acceptable, but testing is also done at the Center for Prevention and Control of AIDS in Almaty. The U.S. Embassy strongly recommends that all travelers purchase evacuation insurance prior to arrival in Kazakstan.