Since January 1, 2025, the pilot project that allowed foreign citizens to obtain an IIN (Individual Identification Number) in foreign institutions has ceased to work in Kazakhstan. Now the issuance of IIN has been temporarily suspended.

What is an IIN and why do I need one?

IIN (Individual Identification Number) is a unique 12-digit code assigned to each resident or foreigner eligible for digital public services in Kazakhstan. The IIN is required for:

• Gaining access to electronic services and eGov personal account;
• Bank account and card issuance in Kazakhstani banks;
• Participating in government tenders or obtaining other official services.

Previously, foreigners could obtain an IIN through the Kazakhstan embassy, but from January 1, 2025 this option is no longer available. For many Russians and CIS citizens, this means that it is now problematic to open an account in a Kazakh bank or fully utilize eGov without a personal visit to the country.

Alternatives: why Georgia?

If your goal is to open an account abroad, gain access to a loyal banking system or register a business outside your home country, Georgia can be a convenient solution. There is minimal bureaucracy here, and a favorable tax regime is available for most non-residents - from 1% for “Small Business” status.

1. Easy remote opening of a sole proprietorship

In Georgia, you can do it remotely:

• Register an IE (sole proprietorship);
• Get a tax number (ID) and a personal account at the Georgian tax office;
• Start a business with a tax rate starting at 1% if your type of business does not qualify for exemptions.

2. Remote bank account opening

Although Georgian banks have also tightened KYC procedures, it is possible to open an account remotely (especially if you are setting up a sole proprietorship or a company) with the right paperwork and advice from local specialists.

3. Simple and transparent tax system

• “Small Business” (1%) for turnover up to GEL 500,000 per year;
• Monthly simple online reporting;
• No sanctions restrictions, allowing to work with many countries.

How to register tax number and sole proprietorship in Georgia remotely?

1. Power of Attorney. You execute a notarized power of attorney (with apostille) for a representative in Georgia who will act on your behalf.
2. Filing an application at the House of Justice. Your representative submits the documents to the House of Justice, registers the IE, receives a tax number for you.
3. Activation at the tax office. At the same time the status of “Small Business” is issued, if the activity fits the requirements (e.g. IT, online services, trade, consulting in some cases, etc.).
4. Obtaining documents. All documents - from the extract from the Register to the “Small Business” certificate - are available electronically and will be sent to you by email.

Support from ESPERO

ESPERO company specializes in registering IE and companies in Georgia, opening bank accounts and obtaining a tax number remotely. We offer:

• Full counseling (what documents are needed, how to execute a power of attorney);
• Filing an application on your behalf;
• Setting up a personal tax office (for filing returns and paying taxes);
• Selection of the optimal banking or payment solution (TBC Bank, Bank of Georgia, Payoneer, Wise).

Bottom line

The suspension of IIN issuance in Kazakhstan from January 1, 2025 makes it more difficult for foreigners to access Kazakhstani banks and government services. If you have been looking for a foreign jurisdiction to open an account or run a business, consider Georgia: it offers remote registration of an IE, a convenient tax regime and simple paperwork.

If you want to avoid bureaucratic hassles and quickly obtain a Georgian tax number or IE status, ESPERO specialists are ready to help you at every stage!

Want to register a sole proprietorship in Georgia or get a tax number remotely?

Contact ESPERO specialists at espero.ge and get personalized advice today!

Don't miss the chance to do business in a stable, low-tax jurisdiction, even if Kazakhstan has temporarily made it difficult to obtain an IIN. Georgia is waiting for you!