Illustration: AI
Pensioners in Kazakhstan can get a free or subsidised sanatorium stay funded by the local budget (digitalbusiness.kz). Local authorities set the rules, so eligibility and the amount pensioners pay depend on the city. In Astana, pensioners pay 15–20% of the cost, while in Almaty their contribution is calculated based on their pension.
Who qualifies for a publicly funded stay
There is no single nationwide system. Local rules determine who qualifies, registration requirements and how to apply. Free or subsidised stays are available to pensioners and certain other eligible groups.
The treating doctor assesses the medical need for treatment. Social welfare authorities determine eligibility for a subsidised stay under the rules of the specific programme. Medical contraindications may be grounds for refusing sanatorium treatment.
How much pensioners in Astana pay for a sanatorium stay
In the capital, support is available to citizens who have been registered as residents of Astana for at least three years. This requirement follows changes to the rules in June 2026. Old-age pensioners can receive a subsidised stay once every two years.
Old-age pensioners pay 20% of the cost, while those receiving the minimum pension pay 15%. Certain categories of veterans and other eligible groups receive a free stay. The standard course of treatment lasts 14 calendar days.
Applications are submitted through birge.astana.kz using an electronic digital signature, known as an EDS. Help is available at the Zhanuya centre at 14 Beibitshilik Street. Vouchers are issued before the stay at 9 Beibitshilik Street.
What income qualifies for support in Almaty
In Almaty, old-age pensioners can apply for support if their family’s income per person does not exceed three times the subsistence minimum. This income threshold applies to each family member.
The pensioner pays an amount equal to 25% of their pension, excluding the state basic pension payment.
Free sanatorium treatment is also available to veterans of the Great Patriotic War and people with disabilities.
How pensioners can join the queue in Shymkent
In Shymkent, applications are submitted through geo-shym.kz. After registering, pensioners receive vouchers when their turn comes. Sanatorium treatment is funded by the city budget.
The city also has the 120-place Izetti Zeinetker wellness centre. Each stay lasts 10 days. Stays at the centre are also funded by the city budget.
Demand for wellness treatment exceeds the number of places available, so the queue is formed in advance. To receive treatment, pensioners must register and wait their turn.
What a stay includes and why an application may be refused
A stay generally includes accommodation, meals and treatment and wellness procedures. Recipients usually pay for their own travel to and from the sanatorium. Astana’s rules explicitly state this.
Common reasons for refusal include ineligibility for support, an incomplete set of documents and medical contraindications. Additional requirements vary by region, so check the rules where you are registered as a permanent resident before applying.
In plain terms
First, check with your local social welfare authority whether you qualify for a stay and how much you will need to contribute. Then check the medical document requirements and application process. When budgeting, remember to include travel: recipients usually pay for it themselves.
