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From January 1, 2027, the maximum period for receiving job loss benefits in Kazakhstan will fall from six months to three. The duration of support will depend on how long a person has contributed to the compulsory social insurance system. The Ministry of Labour has explained how payments will be calculated and where to turn after losing a job (kursiv.media).
Who can receive job loss benefits
The benefit is available to eligible participants in the compulsory social insurance system. Payments come from the State Social Insurance Fund.
This support partially replaces lost income while people look for work. Alongside the payments, citizens can access help finding a job and other employment support measures.
How long benefits will be paid from 2027
From January 1, 2027, the duration of payments will depend on how long a person has contributed to the social insurance system. The maximum period will be three months instead of six.
The change affects how long financial support is paid. Career centre support continues after a person finds a job, with staff monitoring their employment.
How payments are calculated
Each person’s payment will be calculated based on the income on which social contributions were paid and how long they have contributed to the system. In other words, the calculation takes into account both income and the length of participation in social insurance.
Payments will also be capped at 45% of seven times the minimum wage. The minimum wage is the basis for calculating this limit.
Where to register after losing your job
To get help, you first need to register as a jobseeker. You can do this in one of three ways:
- at your local career centre;
- through eGov.kz;
- through the Enbek.kz Electronic Labour Exchange.
When registering, you need to provide details of your education, professional skills, work experience and job preferences. Career centre staff use this information to find suitable vacancies.
What happens if no suitable job is available
If no suitable job is found, the person will be registered as unemployed, provided they meet the requirements. Registering as a jobseeker and registering as unemployed are successive steps in getting support.
Alongside help finding vacancies, people may be offered training for a new occupation or further training to improve their skills. Other options include work placements for young people and other types of subsidised employment.
What other help is available
Support is available for people looking to start a business. Another option is voluntary relocation for work. Participation requirements depend on the specific programme.
The Ministry of Labour says this ongoing support aims to help people return to stable employment. Career centres find suitable vacancies and monitor people’s employment after they find work. Training may also be offered.
In plain English
From 2027, job loss benefits will be paid for a maximum of three months. The amount will depend on income and how long a person has contributed to the system, subject to the cap.
If you lose your job, start by registering at a career centre, on eGov.kz or on Enbek.kz. Provide details of your education, skills, experience and job preferences — this information will be used to find suitable vacancies.
