Company registration and re-registration
Whether you are setting up a new company or re-registering an existing one, Kazakhstan offers many opportunities for business development. For foreign entrepreneurs, registering a company is a way to obtain a business visa (C5), which allows them to legally reside in the country and engage in commercial activities.
Why register a company in Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan’s strategic position as a transit country between Europe and Asia, combined with its growing economy and investor-friendly policies, makes it an attractive location for entrepreneurs and businesses. With a stable political climate and membership in international organizations such as the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), Kazakhstan offers numerous advantages to both local and foreign investors.
For foreign citizens, registering a company in Kazakhstan is not only a way to set up a business, but also an important step towards obtaining a Business Visa (C5). This visa allows foreign entrepreneurs to reside legally in Kazakhstan while managing and expanding their businesses.
The process of registering a company in Kazakhstan is simplified and aimed at promoting entrepreneurship. Whether setting up a new venture or expanding an existing business, the country offers a favorable legal framework, tax benefits and access to a vast consumer market.
Main stages of company registration
Registering a company in Kazakhstan involves several important steps to ensure compliance with local regulations. Below is an overview of the standard process:
Choose a business structure: Entrepreneurs can choose from a variety of business structures, including limited liability partnerships (LLPs), joint stock companies (JSCs) and representative offices. LLPs are the most common choice for SMEs because of their flexibility and limited liability of the founders.
Prepare documentation. The main documents required to register a company are:
- Identity documents of the founders (passports for foreign citizens).
- Memorandum or Articles of Association.
- Legal address of the company.
- Proof of capital contribution (if applicable).
For foreign founders, additional documents may be required, such as:
- Proof of residence permit (if applicable).
- Business visa (C5) documents, which often include a certificate of incorporation of the company.
Obtaining a taxpayer identification number (TIN): All businesses must register for a TIN with the tax authorities in accordance with tax law.
Apply for it: The application for registration is submitted to the Ministry of Justice or an authorized registration authority. This process usually takes a few days, provided that all documents are in order.
Open a bank account: Once incorporated, companies are required to open a corporate bank account in Kazakhstan to manage finances and comply with banking regulations. This account is also required for official business transactions.
Re-registration of companies
Re-registration is necessary when a company undergoes a significant change, such as a change in its legal structure, a change of ownership or a move in legal address. The re-registration process ensures that the company’s information remains up to date with the state authorities.
When re-registration is required:
- Change of company name or legal address.
- Introduction of amendments to the constituent documents.
- Transfer of ownership or merger of companies.
Stages of re-registration:
- Submit an updated application with supporting documents reflecting the changes.
- Notify the appropriate authorities, including the IRS and the Department of Justice.
- Update bank and other official documents to reflect new company details
Customized solutions for foreign entrepreneurs
Kazakhstan welcomes foreign investors with open arms, offering simplified procedures and incentives for international business owners. However, without local knowledge, navigating the legal and administrative environment can be challenging.
Why a registered company is a key factor in obtaining a business visa (C5): The C5 visa allows foreign nationals to reside legally in Kazakhstan for business purposes. To apply for this visa, applicants must provide:
- Certificate of incorporation of the company.
- Evidence of the company’s active operations, such as tax records or financial statements.
- Invitation letter from a registered company certified by the relevant authorities.
Services for foreign investors:
- Assistance in obtaining residence permits and visas for company founders.
- Recommendations for complying with local labor laws when hiring employees.
- Support in obtaining necessary licenses and permits for specific industries.
By utilizing professional consulting services, foreign entrepreneurs can simplify the registration process and ensure a smooth visa application, avoiding delays and potential problems.