Understanding Personal Income Tax in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, located in Central Asia, is a nation rich in cultural heritage, natural resources, and economic potential. With its significant oil reserves and a strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, Kazakhstan has been able to modernize rapidly, attracting foreign investment and business expeditions. This economic growth comes hand in hand with various tax policies, one of which is the **Personal Income Tax** (PIT).

Kazakhstan’s tax system is relatively straightforward and is regulated by the Tax Code of Kazakhstan. The **Personal Income Tax** is a critical aspect of the nation’s tax framework, affecting both residents and non-residents who earn income within the Kazakh territory.

### **Tax Residency Status**

In Kazakhstan, whether you are subject to **Personal Income Tax** largely depends on your tax residency status.

– **Residents**: Individuals are considered residents if they spend 183 days or more in Kazakhstan within a calendar year or have a center of vital interests in the country. Residents are taxed on their worldwide income.
– **Non-residents**: Those who spend less than 183 days in a calendar year in Kazakhstan or do not have their center of vital interests in Kazakhstan are deemed non-residents and are taxed only on their income sourced from Kazakhstan.

### **Personal Income Tax Rates**

As of the latest update in 2023, Kazakhstan has adopted a flat tax rate system for personal income tax:

– **Residents**: The PIT rate for residents is set at a flat **10%** on their taxable income.
– **Non-residents**: Non-residents generally pay a **20%** tax rate on their Kazakhstan-sourced income. However, under certain conditions and treaties, this rate might be reduced.

### **Types of Taxable Income**

Income subject to **Personal Income Tax** in Kazakhstan includes:

– **Employment Income**: Salaries, wages, bonuses, and other forms of remuneration.
– **Investment Income**: Dividends, interest, and capital gains from the sale of securities.
– **Property-related Income**: Income from the rental or sale of property within Kazakhstan.
– **Other Income**: This can include various earnings not categorized under the aforementioned types.

### **Exemptions and Deductions**

Kazakhstan’s tax legislation provides several exemptions and deductions to reduce the tax burden on individuals, such as:

– **Exemptions**: Certain types of income, including state allowances, alimony, and specific scholarships, are exempt from taxation.
– **Deductions**: Residents can claim deductions for contributions to pension funds, educational and medical expenses, and social security payments.

### **Filing and Payment of Taxes**

Individuals in Kazakhstan typically file their tax returns by March 31 of the year following the tax year. Taxes owed should be paid by this deadline. Employers are responsible for withholding taxes on behalf of their employees and remitting them to the tax authorities each month. Self-employed individuals must calculate and pay their taxes quarterly.

### **Double Tax Treaties**

Kazakhstan has entered into numerous double tax treaties with various countries to prevent double taxation and foster international trade and investment. These treaties often reduce the tax rates on dividends, interest, royalties, and other income types for non-residents from treaty partner countries.

### **Business Climate in Kazakhstan**

Kazakhstan’s efforts to simplify tax compliance and create a favorable investment climate have not gone unnoticed. The nation has invested heavily in infrastructure, the digital economy, and the legal framework to facilitate ease of doing business. Policies supporting entrepreneurial activities, foreign direct investment, and an open economy have contributed to its growing reputation as a business hub in Central Asia.

### **Conclusion**

**Personal Income Tax** in Kazakhstan plays a significant role in the nation’s revenue system. With a flat tax rate, clear resident and non-resident distinctions, and various exemptions and deductions, the Kazakh tax system is relatively straightforward. The continuously evolving tax policies and treaties underscore Kazakhstan’s commitment to fostering a favorable business environment and economic prosperity. Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, understanding the nuances of the **Personal Income Tax** is crucial for compliant and efficient financial planning in Kazakhstan.

Understanding Personal Income Tax in Kazakhstan

For anyone looking to understand personal income tax in Kazakhstan, the following resources might be useful:

e-Government of Kazakhstan
UNDP Kazakhstan
Law Firm “Zangar”
Deloitte
PWC
EY
KPMG Kazakhstan
Statistics Committee of Kazakhstan
Financial Police Agency of Kazakhstan

Web Story