Company Formation in Kazakhstan: Unlocking Opportunities in AIFC, Mainland, and Beyond

Kazakhstan has become one of the most dynamic business destinations in Central Asia, offering international investors and local entrepreneurs a gateway to both regional and global markets.With its strategic location between Europe and Asia, membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and favorable investment climate, Kazakhstan is attracting companies from a wide range of industries. Establishing a company in Kazakhstan—whether in AIFC (Astana International Financial Centre) or in the mainland jurisdictions of Almaty, Astana, Atyrau, Shymkent, Aktau, Karaganda, or Kostanay—can open the door to significant growth opportunities.

Why Set Up a Company in Kazakhstan?

1. Strategic Location and Market Access
   Kazakhstan is the largest economy in Central Asia, with direct access to Russia, China, and EAEU member states. Companies registered in Kazakhstan can benefit from preferential trade agreements and logistics corridors.
2. Favorable Legal and Tax Environment
   The AIFC in Astana operates under a unique legal framework based on English common law and offers benefits such as zero corporate tax, simplified visa and work permit regimes, and a modern dispute resolution system. Mainland Kazakhstan provides competitive tax incentives, special economic zones (SEZs), and government support for priority industries.
3. Growing Business Hubs
   • Astana: Political and financial capital, home to AIFC and government institutions
   • Almaty: The largest city and commercial hub, ideal for trade, finance, and services
   • Atyrau: Energy and oil & gas capital, key location for international contractors
   • Shymkent: Industrial and manufacturing center with strong workforce potential
   • Aktau: Strategic Caspian port city, logistics and maritime hub
   • Karaganda & Kostanay: Industrial, mining, and agricultural regions supporting diverse sectors
4. Ease of Doing Business
   Kazakhstan has simplified its business registration process, enabling companies to set up entities quickly. Foreign investors can establish LLCs (TOO), branches, or representative offices, depending on their needs.

Key Services for Company Registration in Kazakhstan

Professional service providers in Kazakhstan typically assist with:

• Choosing the right legal structure (LLC, branch, or AIFC entity)
• Preparing incorporation documents and filings with local authorities
• Obtaining business licenses and permits for regulated industries
• Tax registration and VAT compliance
• Opening corporate bank accounts with Kazakh banks
• Ongoing accounting, payroll, and compliance services

Benefits of Using AIFC vs Mainland Kazakhstan

• AIFC (Astana International Financial Centre): Best for international holding structures, fintech, asset management, and global investment vehicles. Offers zero corporate income tax, exemption from VAT, and access to English-law based dispute resolution.
• Mainland Kazakhstan: Best for companies with local operations in trade, construction, logistics, oil & gas, IT, and services. Offers full access to government tenders, local banking, and workforce availability.

Conclusions

Whether you are expanding into Almaty’s commercial market, Atyrau’s oil & gas sector, Shymkent’s industrial base, or setting up a holding structure in AIFC, Kazakhstan provides a business-friendly environment with strong regional connections. Partnering with experienced advisors in Kazakhstan ensures smooth company setup, ongoing compliance, and a faster path to growth.