Kazakh law enforcement agencies are investigating a major criminal case involving forged temporary residence permits (TRPs). According to human rights advocates, the investigation could lead to the mass deportation of Russian citizens who moved to the country after the start of the war. The “Slovo Zashchite” project reported the information, citing lawyers and activists assisting Russian emigrants, and it was also published by Meduza.
According to their information, dozens of Russian citizens of conscription age are being questioned as witnesses in the case. Sources say the investigation began in late February 2026. Investigators are reportedly summoning people for questioning in small groups of three to four individuals at a time.
A temporary residence permit in Kazakhstan allows foreigners to stay in the country for up to one year. To obtain one, applicants must have official employment and registration at their place of residence.
The “Slovo Zashchite” project notes that for some time the Kazakh authorities had largely not interfered with the widespread practice of obtaining TRPs through intermediaries.
Human rights advocates also point out that the investigation is being conducted not by migration police but by a unit of the National Security Committee. In their view, this could indicate preparations for a large-scale deportation of Russian citizens, possibly based on lists coordinated with the Russian authorities.
In this context, activists advise Russians who may be connected to the case involving fake TRPs to leave Kazakhstan voluntarily as soon as possible in order to avoid forced deportation to Russia.
After the start of the full-scale war against Ukraine and the announcement of mobilization in Russia, Kazakhstan became one of the main destinations for Russians relocating abroad. Tens of thousands of people who left Russia because of the war are currently in the country. According to human rights groups, the number of deportations of Russian citizens sharply increased in 2026, including cases involving individuals who face political persecution or accusations of desertion in Russia.
