{"id":52576,"date":"2026-07-29T06:59:09","date_gmt":"2026-07-29T03:59:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kz.f-chain.com\/?p=52576"},"modified":"2026-07-29T06:59:09","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T03:59:09","slug":"labor-social-code-kazakhstan-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kz.f-chain.com\/en\/feautured-post\/labor-social-code-kazakhstan-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"New Amendments to the Labor and Social Codes of Kazakhstan"},"content":{"rendered":"

New Amendments to the Labor and Social Codes of Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n

In 2026, Kazakhstan adopted one of the largest legislative reform packages in recent years, affecting labor relations, employment, social protection, professional qualifications, public service, digitalization, and cybersecurity. The amendments were introduced to the Labor Code, the Social Code, and a number of sector-specific laws. Most of the changes enter into force in stages throughout July, August, and September 2026. The new provisions will directly affect employers, HR departments, accountants, government organizations, educational institutions, and occupational health and safety specialists.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

New Requirements for Hiring Employees<\/h3>\n

The list of documents required for concluding an employment contract has been amended. The legislation now provides a clearer distinction between educational documents and documents confirming the recognition of professional qualifications. Where professional standards do not establish educational requirements, an employer may take into account a document confirming the recognition of professional qualifications.<\/p>\n

At the same time, the legal definition of special knowledge has been expanded. It now includes knowledge and skills acquired not only through formal education but also through professional training, retraining, advanced training, and practical work experience. This will allow employers to assess candidates’ qualifications more flexibly during the recruitment process.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Professional Training Has Received New Legislative Regulation<\/h3>\n

One of the key changes is the updated definition of professional training. It now officially includes:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. professional training;<\/li>\n
  2. retraining;<\/li>\n
  3. advanced training;<\/li>\n
  4. acquisition of a new profession or specialty;<\/li>\n
  5. updating and expanding professional competencies.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    The amendments are aimed at developing a continuous employee training system and increasing labor market mobility. In addition, the powers of local executive authorities in the field of professional qualification recognition have been expanded. Unemployed citizens will be able to receive special vouchers to undergo the professional qualification recognition procedure and use international certificates if they are recognized under the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Employers Are Now Required to Pay Greater Attention to Cybersecurity<\/h3>\n

    Since July 2026, cybersecurity has officially become part of labor relations. Employees are now required to comply with cybersecurity requirements alongside the requirements for:<\/p>\n

      \n
    1. occupational safety;<\/li>\n
    2. fire safety;<\/li>\n
    3. industrial safety;<\/li>\n
    4. workplace sanitation.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      At the same time, employers have received new obligations to:<\/p>\n

        \n
      1. familiarize employees with internal cybersecurity requirements;<\/li>\n
      2. organize internal control over compliance with these requirements.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        For most organizations, this means the need to develop internal regulations, instructions, and provide employee training.<\/p>\n

         <\/p>\n

        New Employer Obligations When Employing Persons with Disabilities<\/h3>\n

        The amendments significantly strengthen the requirements for ensuring the employment of persons with disabilities. Employers subject to the established employment quota are now required not only to hire such employees but also to provide the necessary working conditions. In particular, organizations must ensure:<\/p>\n

          \n
        1. workplace adaptation;<\/li>\n
        2. modification of working conditions where necessary;<\/li>\n
        3. redistribution of certain job functions;<\/li>\n
        4. other measures enabling employees to fully perform their job duties.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          Exceptions apply only in cases of company liquidation, staff reductions, or significant deterioration of the employer’s financial situation.<\/p>\n

           <\/p>\n

          New Concepts and Digital Services Introduced into the Social Code<\/h3>\n

          The amendments significantly expand the provisions of the Social Code. The legislation introduces several new concepts, including:<\/p>\n

            \n
          1. Active Longevity Center;<\/li>\n
          2. sign language;<\/li>\n
          3. integrated support module for children with disabilities and children at risk;<\/li>\n
          4. investment portfolios of pension assets.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            In addition, the Center for the Development of Labor Resources has been granted new powers related to the development of the State Charity Platform, data processing, and the provision of advisory services in compliance with personal data protection legislation.<\/p>\n

             <\/p>\n

            Legislation Aligned with the New Constitution<\/h3>\n

            Following the adoption of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, numerous editorial amendments have been introduced into the legislation. In particular:<\/p>\n

              \n
            1. the term “tenge” has officially been replaced with “\u0442\u0435\u04a3\u0433\u0435”;<\/li>\n
            2. the term “foreigner” has been replaced with “foreign citizen”;<\/li>\n
            3. the term “Parliament” has been replaced with “Kurultai” in the relevant legislative acts.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

              In addition, Constitution Day has been moved from August 30 to March 15, which becomes a new public holiday and an official non-working day.<\/p>\n

               <\/p>\n

              What Employers Should Do Now<\/h3>\n

              In light of the new legal requirements, employers are advised to review their internal processes and prepare their organizations for the upcoming changes. In particular, it is recommended to:<\/p>\n

                \n
              1. update HR documentation;<\/li>\n
              2. review employment contract procedures;<\/li>\n
              3. revise internal policies and regulations;<\/li>\n
              4. develop documents governing cybersecurity compliance;<\/li>\n
              5. assess compliance with disability employment quotas;<\/li>\n
              6. update internal professional training procedures;<\/li>\n
              7. provide additional training for HR specialists, personnel officers, and department managers.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                Timely preparation will help businesses avoid violations of labor legislation, administrative risks, and claims from government authorities.<\/p>\n

                 <\/p>\n

                FChain \u2014 Your Reliable Partner in HR and Legal Business Support<\/h3>\n

                Constant legislative changes require businesses to promptly update their internal processes and HR documentation. Mistakes in employment documentation, personnel administration, or compliance with new legal requirements may result in fines, labor disputes, and additional financial costs. FChain specialists help businesses operate in full compliance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan. We offer comprehensive business support services, including:<\/p>\n