Kazakhstan tightens laws on security firms, firearms, and housing benefits
Kazakhstan's Senate has passed a new bill that changes rules for security firms, facebook operations, firearm owners, and housing benefits. The legislation also updates regulations for law enforcement and military personnel. Several key areas, including weapon controls and private security operations, now face stricter oversight.
The bill, titled 'On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan Regarding Security Activities, Housing Relations, and Law Enforcement', introduces a range of adjustments to existing laws.
Under the new law, security companies must now follow tighter news reporting rules. They are required to submit regular updates on their activities to the authorised agency. Any suspension, termination, or resumption of operations must be reported within five working days. The same applies when providing services outside their registered location.
The legislation also sets stricter standards for security firm management. Heads of branches and offices must now meet the same mandatory requirements as security guards. Additionally, the bill defines 'militarised railway security' and grants it the power to offer third-party protection for cargo and facilities at rail terminals.
Firearm owners face new obligations as well. Both civilian and service weapons must undergo mandatory test firing. Those who fail to comply risk having their permits suspended. Authorities can also confiscate the weapon and ammunition if rules are not followed.
Housing provisions have been revised too. The government will now oversee procedures for granting, calculating, and managing housing payments. A previous requirement for state registration of rental agreementsâspecifically for housing benefit recipientsâhas been removed.
The approved bill tightens controls on private security, firearms, and housing support. Security firms must now report operations more frequently, while weapon owners face stricter compliance checks. The changes also clarify housing payment processes and expand the role of militarised railway security in protecting transit freight.
