Congestion at Russian Border: Kazakhstan Seeks to Assist Its Drivers

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin convened an emergency meeting with representatives of the Border Service, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Migration Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Akimats of border regions, and members of parliament following massive queues at border checkpoints with Russia and growing complaints from Kazakhstani truck drivers, Orda.kz reports, citing the Prime Minister’s website.

The meeting focused on the impact of Russia’s new migration regulations, which have severely affected international freight and passenger transport.

Starting January 1, 2025, Russia introduced a new rule limiting foreigners’ stay to no more than 90 days per calendar year, regardless of how many times they cross the border. The rule also applies to professional drivers of international transport. Time spent in Belarus is counted jointly with Russia, as both countries form a Union State. Previously, the combined limit was 180 days.

The Kazakhstan National Security Committee’s Border Service clarified that exceptions apply only to those holding a temporary residence permit or other authorization to stay in Russia. For citizens of Kazakhstan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, the standard 90-day visa-free regime now applies uniformly.

Kazakhstan’s own migration policy is more flexible: foreigners can remain up to 90 days within a six-month period without registration, and this limit does not apply to international cargo or bus drivers — a standard international practice.

The border congestion has been worsened by Russian raids targeting “gray imports” that began in September, significantly increasing inspection times for trucks at several checkpoints.

Majilis Deputy Bolatbek Nazhmetdinuly stated that the new Russian rules are effectively restricting not only international freight transport but also drivers working within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) framework. Many drivers who have already reached their 90-day limit are now unable to re-enter Russia until next year. Those exceeding the limit have been ordered to leave the country.

On October 7, Zhumangarin discussed the issue with Russian Ambassador Alexey Borodavkin. Both sides expressed readiness to resolve the situation promptly. Kazakhstan has also appealed to the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) to recognize the new restrictions as a barrier to foreign trade.

The issue will be reviewed at the EEC meeting on October 13 and again at the 26th session of the Kazakhstan –Russia Intergovernmental Commission on November 7.

Original Author: Ilya Astakhov