+4 hours during Swiss winter time / +3 hours during Swiss summer time

Astana

Official language

Kazakh

Language capabilities

Russian
English

220 volt; 2-pronged round plug / adapter required for 3-pronged plug

Banks

9.00 am–1.00 pm and 2.00 pm–6.00 pm (Mon–Fri)
Opening hours may vary. Some branches also open on Saturdays, usually from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm.

Shops

9.00 am–8.00 pm (Mon–Sat)
Opening hours may vary. Larger supermarkets and shopping centres may stay open longer, particularly in major cities such as Almaty and Astana.

• 1 and 2 January: New Year holidays
• 7 January: Orthodox Christmas
• 8 March: International Women’s Day
• 15 March: Constitution Day
• 21–23 March: Nauryz celebrations
• 1 May: People’s Unity Day
• 7 May: Defender of the Fatherland Day
• 9 May: Victory Day
• Variable date:* Kurban Ait
• 6 July: Capital City Day
• 25 October: Republic Day
• 16 December: Independence Day

* Islamic holidays such as Kurban Ait follow the lunar calendar, so their dates may vary from year to year.

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens residing in Switzerland. The following requirements apply when entering Kazakhstan:

• Passport: A Swiss passport valid on arrival is required. Passports with an extended validity period are not accepted.
• Visa: No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days when travelling on an ordinary Swiss passport.
• Return or onward ticket: Visa-exempt visitors must be able to present a return or onward ticket. Otherwise, entry may be refused.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

Northern Kazakhstan

• Summer (June–August): Temperatures range from 20 to 30 °C, occasionally peaking at 35 °C. Summers are short, warm and often characterised by dry winds. Temperatures drop considerably at night.
• Winter (December–February): Temperatures fall to between −15 and −30 °C, with extreme lows of −40 °C. Snow and icy winds dominate the region.
• Spring/autumn (March–May, September–November): Temperatures range from −5 to 15 °C. Large differences between day and night temperatures and sudden changes in the weather are typical.

Southern Kazakhstan

• Summer (June–August): Temperatures of 30 to 40 °C are common. The climate is dry, with occasional hot desert winds. Rainfall is rare.
• Winter (December–February): Temperatures range from −5 to 5 °C, with occasional lows of −15 °C. Winters are shorter and less severe than in the north. Nevertheless, frost, snow and pronounced cold spells are possible.
• Spring/autumn (March–May, September–November): Temperatures range from 10 to 25 °C. These seasons are pleasant, with moderate temperatures, and are ideal for outdoor activities.

Western Kazakhstan (Caspian region)

• Summer (June–August): Temperatures range from 25 to 35 °C, sometimes reaching 40 °C. Summers are hot and dry, particularly near the Ustyurt Desert.
• Winter (December–February): Temperatures range from −5 to −20 °C, with icy winds and occasional snowfall. The Caspian coast is slightly milder.
• Spring/autumn (March–May, September–November): Temperatures range from 5 to 20 °C, often accompanied by strong winds and brief periods of rain.

Eastern and south-eastern Kazakhstan (Altai and Tian Shan mountains)

• Summer (June–August): Temperatures range from 15 to 25 °C, with cooler nights. Summers in the mountains are cool and rainy.
• Winter (December–February): Temperatures range from −15 to −25 °C, falling to −35 °C in the mountains. Heavy snowfall makes the region ideal for winter sports.
• Spring/autumn (March–May, September–November): Temperatures range from −5 to 15 °C, with rapid changes. Spring and autumn are short and often wet.

Central Kazakhstan (steppe region)

• Summer (June–August): Temperatures range from 25 to 35 °C, with occasional heatwaves reaching 40 °C. Summers are dry, with hot days and cool nights.
• Winter (December–February): Temperatures range from −15 to −25 °C, accompanied by strong winds and snowstorms.
• Spring/autumn (March–May, September–November): Temperatures range from 0 to 20 °C, often accompanied by strong winds and sudden changes in the weather.

The ideal time to visit Kazakhstan:

• Beach holidays: June–August. During the summer months, temperatures are ideal for a stay by the Caspian Sea or lakes such as Lake Balkhash. The weather is warm to hot, with little rain.
• City breaks: May–June, September–October. Spring and autumn offer pleasantly mild temperatures, ideal for exploring cities such as Almaty, Astana and Shymkent. Summer can be too hot and winter too cold.
• Winter holidays: December–February. Perfect for skiing and winter sports in mountain regions, such as the Shymbulak ski resort near Almaty. The mountains offer good snow conditions and impressive scenery.

• Mobile phones: Using your mobile phone in Kazakhstan incurs roaming charges. It is advisable to check roaming rates before travelling and, if necessary, purchase a dedicated roaming package to reduce costs. Mobile coverage is good in cities and along major transport routes. Coverage may be limited in remote areas.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is now available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public spaces. Speeds are generally good in urban areas; connections may be slower or less reliable in rural regions.
• Prepaid SIM cards: You can buy a prepaid SIM card locally to make local calls and use mobile data. Several mobile operators are available in Kazakhstan, including Beeline, Kcell and Tele2. A passport is generally required to buy and register a local SIM card. Requirements to register or verify your phone using its IMEI may also apply. Check these with the mobile operator, particularly for stays of more than 30 days.
• Other information: International and mobile telephone and radio communications, as well as Internet access, are not always guaranteed. Temporary restrictions on telephone and Internet connections cannot be ruled out.

• Bayterek Tower, Astana: A landmark of the capital symbolising Kazakhstan’s independence, with an observation platform offering panoramic views.
• Medeu ice rink, Almaty: A well-known high-altitude ice rink set in impressive mountain scenery. The complex is currently undergoing extensive renovation, with completion scheduled for the end of 2027. Check access arrangements before visiting.
• Charyn Canyon, Almaty region: A spectacular gorge landscape, often compared with the Grand Canyon, ideal for hiking and photography.
• Altyn-Emel National Park, Almaty region: Home to singing dunes and diverse wildlife and plant life, a paradise for nature lovers.
• Khan Shatyr, Astana: A futuristic shopping and leisure centre shaped like a giant tent, an architectural masterpiece.
• Kolsai Lakes, Almaty region: Three picturesque lakes in the Tian Shan mountains, popular for trekking, fishing and boat trips.
• Tanbaly petroglyphs, Almaty region: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with around 5’000 rock carvings offering insights into the lives and rituals of early pastoral cultures.
• Ak Orda Presidential Palace, Astana: The president’s official seat, featuring modern architecture and surrounded by well-maintained parkland.
• Lake Balkhash, central Kazakhstan: One of the world’s largest lakes, half saltwater and half freshwater, a natural wonder.
• Baikonur Cosmodrome: A historic rocket launch site, known as the starting point for many space missions; visits are only possible with a permit.
• Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, Western Tian Shan: Central Asia’s oldest nature reserve protects species-rich mountain landscapes and the impressive Aksu Gorge.
• Aral Sea, western Kazakhstan: Once one of the world’s largest lakes, now a symbol of environmental change and sustainability challenges.
• Turkestan Mausoleum, Turkestan: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important spiritual centre in Kazakhstan, known for its Islamic architecture.
• Big Almaty Lake, Almaty region: A turquoise mountain lake at an altitude of 2’500 m, popular for day trips and photography.

• Beshbarmak: Kazakhstan’s national dish, consisting of boiled meat, usually horse or lamb, and wide strips of pasta served with an onion broth. Traditionally eaten by hand.
• Kumys: Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional nomadic drink that is mildly alcoholic and an important part of Kazakhstan’s traditional drinking culture.
• Shashlik: Grilled meat skewers, often lamb, beef or chicken, served with fresh herbs and vegetables; a popular snack in restaurants and at street stalls.
• Baursaki: Deep-fried dough balls, similar to doughnuts, often served with tea or soup and also popular as a dessert.
• Lagman: A hearty noodle soup with beef or lamb, vegetables and strong spices, influenced by Central Asian cuisine.
• Plov: A rice dish with meat, carrots and onions, often served at celebrations and available in many regional variations.
• Manty: Steamed dumplings filled with meat, often lamb or beef, and onions, served with sour cream or tomato sauce.
• Shubat: Fermented camel’s milk, another traditional drink often enjoyed in desert regions.
• Kazakh tea: Black tea, often enriched with milk, butter or salt, an important part of Kazakh hospitality.
• Kurt: Dried cheese or yoghurt, a salty, long-lasting speciality traditionally carried by nomads as provisions.

• Greetings: Men commonly greet one another with a handshake. When greeting women, it is advisable to wait for them to offer their hand. A friendly nod is also appropriate. A suitable Kazakh greeting is “Assalaumagaleikum” (“Peace be upon you”). In Russian, “Zdravstvuyte” (“Hello”) is commonly used.
• Saying please and thank you: Politeness is appreciated. “Рақмет” (Rakhmet) means “Thank you” in Kazakh, while “Спасибо” (Spasibo) is common in Russian. “Өтінемін” (Ötinemin) means “Please” in Kazakh, while “Пожалуйста” (Pozhaluysta) is used in Russian.
• Clothing: Modern clothing is common in cities, while more conservative dress is appreciated in rural areas. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting religious sites. Women are advised to wear a headscarf in mosques.
• Dining customs: Guests are often warmly welcomed, and refusing food is considered impolite. Meals frequently begin with tea. Traditional dishes such as beshbarmak are commonly eaten by hand.
• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, on public transport and near entrances. Designated smoking areas are available and should be strictly observed.
• Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory but is appreciated. In restaurants, 5–10% of the bill is appropriate if no service charge is included.
• Other information: Avoid critical remarks about the government or traditions. Do not photograph military installations or security-sensitive facilities. Observe photography restrictions and, if in doubt, ask before taking a photograph. Hospitality is highly valued, and bringing a small gift when invited is considered polite.

• Drinking water quality: Tap water in Kazakhstan is often unsuitable for drinking directly. It is recommended to drink bottled water or boil tap water before consumption. Water quality is frequently poorer in rural areas than in cities.

• Vaccinations: Specific vaccinations are generally not mandatory for entry into Kazakhstan. However, travellers are advised to keep routine vaccinations up to date, particularly against diphtheria, tetanus, polio and measles. Vaccination against hepatitis A is also recommended.

• Malaria risk: No locally acquired malaria cases have been reported for several years. Check the current advice from HealthyTravel.

• Medical care is only available to a limited extent. Before treating foreign patients, hospitals require a financial guarantee in the form of an advance payment in cash, or possibly by bank transfer, in local currency, unless the patient’s life is in danger. Hospitals in larger cities also accept credit card payments. Bringing your own dressings and disposable syringes may be useful, particularly for stays outside Astana and Almaty.
• If you depend on specific medication, your travel medical kit should contain an adequate supply. Please note that many countries have special rules for bringing in medicines containing narcotics, such as methadone, and substances used to treat mental health conditions. Carry an appropriate medical certificate, including a Russian or Kazakh translation. If necessary, contact the relevant foreign representation, embassy or consulate, directly before departure.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

• Follow media reports on the current situation before and during your trip, and stay in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• Travel to Kazakhstan is generally considered safe.
• Demonstrations may occur, particularly in the south, especially in Almaty, and in the west of the country, where major oil fields are located. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces, such as those in January 2022 that caused injuries and deaths, cannot be ruled out.
• The Kazakh authorities warn of a risk of terrorist acts.
• The “Terrorism and kidnapping” section draws attention to terrorism risks.
• Pickpocketing, other theft and robberies occur and may involve violence. Theft may be committed by people wearing police uniforms.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

• Driving licence: An international driving permit is mandatory and is only valid together with your Swiss driving licence. It can be obtained from TCS contact points or the road traffic office in your canton of residence.

• Car hire: The minimum age for hiring a car is generally 21. Some providers set the minimum at 23 or 25, depending on the vehicle category. Drivers must have at least one year of driving experience.
• Traffic regulations: Traffic drives on the right.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.0 ‰.
• Other information: Road conditions are very poor, particularly in winter. The unpredictable behaviour of many drivers and excessive speed pose additional risks. Numerous serious accidents occur on main roads, such as the route from Almaty to Astana. Avoid travelling outside urban areas at night.

• Long-distance trains: Kazakhstan has a well-developed rail network connecting cities such as Almaty, Astana and Shymkent. Long-distance trains are a popular option for longer journeys and offer various classes of comfort, from sleeping cars to inexpensive seats. Reservations are recommended, particularly during peak travel periods.
• Regional trains: Regional trains are available for shorter journeys between towns and villages within a region. They are cheaper but often slower and less comfortable. Nevertheless, they offer an authentic way to get to know the country and its people.
• Buses: Buses complement the rail network and connect cities and many smaller places. Frequency, comfort and accessibility vary by region.
• Underground/trams: Almaty has a modern underground system with a short but efficient line connecting key parts of the city. Some cities, including Pavlodar and Temirtau, have tram networks offering an inexpensive means of transport.
• Tickets: Train and long-distance bus tickets are available at sales outlets and, in some cases, online. Urban public transport payment systems vary between cities; transport cards and mobile payments are common. Almaty uses the ONAY! system, among others.
• Other information: Shared taxis, known as “marshrutki”, are a flexible and quick alternative for shorter distances. They follow fixed routes but stop on request. It is advisable to carry small banknotes or coins for payment.

• Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ), Astana.
• Almaty International Airport (ALA), Almaty.

The main airlines operating in Kazakhstan are Air Astana, FlyArystan, SCAT Airlines and Vietjet Qazaqstan, formerly Qazaq Air.

+41, followed by the Swiss telephone number without the leading zero

• General emergency number: 112
• Police: 102
• Ambulance: 103
• Fire brigade: 101

Embassy of Switzerland
62 Kosmonavtov Street, 8F
Microdistrict Chubary
010000 Astana
Kazakhstan

Tel.: +7 7172 97 98 92 / +7 7172 97 98 93
Email: astana@eda.admin.ch

Specific legal provisions

• The following acts, among others, are punishable offences:

  • Photographing military installations and certain public buildings, such as border crossings, airports and railway stations;

  • Insulting or publicly criticising the president or the government, including on social media;

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol, with a limit of 0 per mille. Violations may result in temporary confiscation of the vehicle and the immediate arrest of the driver.

• Violations of drug legislation are punishable by lengthy prison sentences.
• Prison conditions are extremely difficult, and tuberculosis is widespread among prisoners.

Natural hazards

• There is an increased risk of earthquakes, particularly in Almaty. Further information is available from the Kazakhstan National Data Center.

• There is a risk of forest fires and water shortages in many areas.

• Flooding, landslides and infrastructure damage must be expected after heavy rainfall. Meltwater from the mountains may cause flooding in northern Kazakhstan, potentially leading to a state of emergency being declared. Travel may also be disrupted. Further information is available from the National Hydrometeorological Service of Kazakhstan.

• The exposed bed of the dried-up Aral Sea is heavily contaminated with salts and chemicals, which are carried by the wind into surrounding areas.

• Numerous nuclear tests were carried out between 1949 and 1989 near the city of Semey in the east of the country, formerly known as Semipalatinsk. The test site and surrounding area are considered radioactively contaminated.

• If a natural disaster occurs during your stay, contact your relatives as soon as possible and follow the authorities’ instructions. If communications with other countries are interrupted, contact the Swiss embassy in Astana.

• Weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. Outdoor activities therefore require thorough preparation and suitable equipment. Hiking trails are not signposted. Only undertake hikes, mountain tours and ski tours with a qualified guide who knows the area. It is vital to carry a navigation device and a satellite phone so that you can alert the emergency services if necessary. Do not underestimate the symptoms of altitude sickness in the high mountains of the Tian Shan.

Special information

• Some regions are not accessible to foreign nationals or may only be visited with permission from the immigration police.

• Entry and transit with your own car, motorbike or bicycle may involve expenses and lengthy formalities, particularly at smaller border crossings.

• Anyone staying in Kazakhstan for more than 30 consecutive days must be registered with the Office of Visas and Registration, OVIR. Failure to comply with this registration requirement may result in a warning, fines or deportation, depending on the number of days overstayed.

• Contact the embassy of Kazakhstan in Bern well in advance about inaccessible areas or those requiring a permit, customs formalities for vehicles, and visa and notification requirements. Further information is available from the embassy of Kazakhstan.

• The police are authorised to carry out identity checks at any time. Always carry your passport with you.