After the 2024 Crocus City Hall attack in Moscow, reportedly involving Tajik nationals, Russia has significantly tightened its immigration policies. Over 80,000 deportations and 260,000 entry bans in 2024 have left many Tajik migrants stranded or seeking alternatives — with Kazakhstan emerging as a new destination.
According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), foreign arrivals to Kazakhstan rose 18% in early 2025, with Tajik migration increasing by 7%. However,
Kazakhstan’s mixed reception and legal gaps
Kazakhstan's labor system differs significantly from Russia’s. The country lacks a patent system, instead requiring formal work permits issued by local governments. As of March 2025, only 13,584 foreigners had such permits — mostly from China, India, Turkiye, and Uzbekistan.
Many migrants, especially in construction, agriculture, and services, operate in the informal economy, leaving them vulnerable.
Discrimination still exists
Despite more respectful treatment, Tajik migrants face language and cultural barriers, and post-terrorism fears have led to targeted policing. Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have launched programs to better prepare their citizens for working abroad, leaving Tajikistan trailing in migration policy reform.
Although Kazakhstan has adaptation programs supported by the government and international organizations like the IOM, experts note that
Europe: new hope, old problems
Some Tajik migrants are now looking toward Europe, with Lithuania becoming a popular — if problematic — destination. However, cases of labor abuse, contract violations, and even homelessness have been reported. Due to rising concerns, Lithuania closed its visa center in Dushanbe in July 2025.
Officials cited a fivefold increase in Tajik migration over two years and widespread misuse of work visas.
Russia remains the primary destination
Yet for many, Russia remains the main destination. Experts warn remittances to Tajikistan are declining, but the country’s dependence on Russian labor markets continues — with little systemic effort to create safer or broader migration alternatives.
