Take, for example, a Mitsubishi L200 priced at 26,436,500 tenge. In our currency, that comes to about 3.5 million rubles. A nearly identical model in Invite + trim at a Russian dealership lists at 4.6 million rubles. That gap invites closer look and careful calculation.
Kazakhstan belongs to the EAEU Customs Union. That means goods cleared into Kazakhstan can be used across all member countries without extra customs fees. In practical terms, a car can be bought in Kazakhstan, transported to Russia, registered there, and driven on Russian roads.
Additional costs
Border crossings with a sizable sum can feel unsettling. Moving rubles into tenge typically carries about a 2% conversion cost. To minimize commissions, opening a local bank account in Kazakhstan is often necessary, which requires a local IIN and a foreign passport at the bank. Large transfers may draw scrutiny under currency controls, requiring proof that funds are legitimate and not tied to tax evasion or money laundering. Opening an account abroad also entails notifying the Russian authorities to avoid penalties.
When purchasing, a recycling fee, motor vehicle tax, and registration procedures come into play. It is important to note that ERU-GLONASS installation becomes mandatory again from February 1, 2023, and a number of steps must be completed before the car can cross customs. If the idea of flying somewhere crosses the mind, pause for the finer details of the process.
Disadvantages of buying a car in Kazakhstan
a. Many automakers have amended dealer agreements to restrict sales for use solely within Kazakhstan. This can mean a car in possession may not be sold to a Russian citizen, which complicates cross-border ownership—even for residents with a Kazakhstani residence permit.
2. The warranty may not transfer across borders. The sales contract often states that warranty obligations apply only when the vehicle operates within Kazakhstan, so changing the country of operation can void coverage and shift responsibility to the owner.
3. Since cars are sold to Kazakhstani citizens or residents, buyers may need a local intermediary to purchase, register under that person’s name, and later complete a transfer to the buyer. Finding a trustworthy intermediary is essential to avoid complications, as misdeeds can involve seized assets or unresolved debts that affect the vehicle’s status.
To mitigate risk, it is prudent to verify intermediaries in Kazakhstan’s Unified Register of Debtors, using the IIN and full name. If the intermediary is married, notarized spousal consent may also be required to confirm debt status and registration accuracy.
To buy or not to buy a car in Kazakhstan?
The entire procedure—from dealer to transporter—typically costs around 100,000 rubles, though deviations are possible. Prospective buyers can compare prices of Kazakhstan imports already cleared for Russia, noting a typical margin for middlemen around 400,000 rubles. Focusing on vehicles that have already been registered in Russia reduces exposure to intermediary risks.
If a car arrives with transit numbers, proceed with caution. The seller should not be a stranger, and a car not bearing proper electronic title across the EAEU can become a long legal ordeal, potentially delaying use for years.
Requires 7,000 tires in popular sizes
Stability and public order rely on dependable logistics. The Popular Front has partnered with Behind the Wheel to mobilize resources for tire purchases for police and emergency vehicles, as well as humanitarian and military support vehicles in Donbass. Contributions can be made through the designated collection page.