Illegal Citizenship Scheme Exposed in Kyrgyzstan by Security Committee

Kyrgyzstan is facing a major crisis after the State National Security Committee (GKNB) uncovered an illegal citizenship scheme on July 22, 2025. This scheme allowed foreigners and stateless people to get Kyrgyz citizenship using fake court decisions. The discovery has set off a high-profile investigation, with authorities promising more arrests and stricter controls. The scandal comes at a time when Kyrgyzstan is already under pressure to manage rising numbers of foreign nationals and to protect the integrity of its immigration system.

Illegal Citizenship Scheme Uncovered

The GKNB’s announcement marks a turning point in Kyrgyzstan’s efforts to control illegal migration. According to the official statement, the illegal citizenship scheme involved foreigners and stateless persons who used forged court documents to gain Kyrgyz citizenship. While the GKNB has not yet shared the exact number of people involved or their nationalities, the agency’s public confirmation signals the start of a broad investigation. Law enforcement is expected to make more arrests and bring charges against those responsible for creating and using fake documents.

Kamchibek Tashiev, Chairman of the GKNB, has taken a strong stance, saying, “Illegal migration and document fraud threaten our country’s security and social order.” His comments reflect growing concerns about how such schemes can undermine trust in official documents and create risks for both citizens and legal migrants.

Background: Rising Migration and Policy Changes

The illegal citizenship scheme was uncovered during a period of increased migration to Kyrgyzstan. Since January 2025, the country has seen a sharp rise in the number of foreigners:

• 61,000 tourists
• 30,000 foreign students
• 12,000 officially registered migrant workers

Authorities estimate that about 5,000 illegal migrants are currently in the country. Many of these individuals entered using simplified entry procedures, which were designed to make travel and study easier but have also been misused. Some foreigners have overstayed their visas or lied about their reasons for coming to Kyrgyzstan.

In response, the GKNB launched Operation Illegal on June 10, 2025. This nationwide campaign aims to find and deport undocumented migrants. The operation includes:

• Mass checks of foreign nationals
• Raids on suspected locations
• Careful review of legal status and documents

These actions are part of a broader effort to restore order and prevent abuse of the immigration system.

Recent Policy Changes: Legalization and Enforcement

To address the growing problem, the government introduced a presidential decree on May 22, 2025. This decree allowed foreign citizens and stateless persons to legalize their stay in Kyrgyzstan without facing deportation or fines, but only until June 10, 2025. During this short window, over 3,000 applications for legalization were submitted. The process required applicants to provide a valid passport, supporting documents, and a letter from local police confirming there were no reasons to deny their request.

After June 10, the government closed the legalization window and began strict enforcement. This means:

• No more extensions for legalization
• Immediate deportations for those found to be in the country illegally
• Criminal investigations into anyone involved in document fraud

To support these efforts, the government allocated 280 million Kyrgyz soms (about $3.2 million) to fund deportations and enforcement actions.

How Foreigners Can Comply

Foreign nationals who are in Kyrgyzstan illegally are strongly advised to voluntarily leave the country. They can apply for exit visas through the official Electronic Visa portal. This online system makes it easier for people to regularize their departure and avoid further penalties.

For those who want to legalize their stay, the process involves:

• Submitting a valid passport
• Providing supporting documents (such as proof of employment or study)
• Getting a letter from local police confirming there are no grounds for denial

Applications can be made through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Labor, or Public Service Centers. Many services are now available online, making the process more accessible.

Key Contacts for Assistance

Foreigners needing help with legalization or exit procedures can contact the following authorities:

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 0312663070, 0703428865, 0999312002 (24/7)
• Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration: 0312663964, 0509999779
• Ministry of Internal Affairs: 0312266170, 0702828028, 0700848440
• Kyzmat State Institution for Registration: 0312380098, 0999380025, 119

These agencies can provide information on required documents, application steps, and deadlines.

Impact on Foreign Nationals and Host Organizations

The crackdown on the illegal citizenship scheme has serious consequences for several groups:

• Foreigners who obtained citizenship or residency through fake documents face deportation, loss of status, and possible criminal charges.
• Host organizations—such as universities and companies—are under investigation for failing to properly monitor the status of foreign nationals they sponsor.
• Legal migrants are being urged to double-check their documents and comply with new verification procedures.

The government’s message is clear: anyone found to have broken the law will face strict penalties. At the same time, those who follow the rules and keep their paperwork in order should not be affected.

Expert Analysis: Systemic Weaknesses and International Pressure

Security experts say the exposure of the illegal citizenship scheme shows weaknesses in Kyrgyzstan’s legal and administrative systems. In particular, the use of forged court documents points to gaps in oversight and control. Some analysts believe that host organizations, such as universities, may not have done enough to check the status of foreign students and workers.

There is also international pressure on Kyrgyzstan to improve document security. The United States 🇺🇸 and other countries are watching closely, especially as Kyrgyzstan’s passport reliability is under review. If the country cannot guarantee the integrity of its documents, it could face travel restrictions or other penalties from foreign governments.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the crackdown is seen as a response to both domestic concerns about social order and international scrutiny over document security. The government’s actions are meant to show that Kyrgyzstan is serious about stopping illegal migration and protecting its borders.

Operation Illegal: What It Means for Migrants

Operation Illegal is the centerpiece of the government’s new approach. Since its launch, law enforcement agencies have carried out:

• Mass checks of foreign nationals in public places, workplaces, and educational institutions
• Raids on suspected locations where illegal migrants may be hiding
• Verification of documents and legal status

These actions are designed to find and remove anyone who is in the country without proper authorization. The government has made it clear that there will be no further chances to legalize status. Anyone caught without valid documents will be deported.

Legalization Process: Step-by-Step

For those who still want to legalize their stay, here’s how the process works:

1. Gather Required Documents:
   • Valid passport
   • Supporting documents (such as proof of employment, study, or family ties)
   • Letter from local police confirming no grounds for denial
2. Submit Application:
   • Applications can be made through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Labor, or Public Service Centers
   • Many services are available online, including the Online Registration portal
3. Wait for Review:
   • Authorities will check the documents and may ask for more information
   • If approved, the applicant will receive legal status and avoid deportation
4. If Denied:
   • The applicant must leave the country or face deportation

Government Resources and Support

The government has set up several resources to help migrants:

• Electronic Visa portal: www.evisa.e-gov.kg
• Online Registration portal: www.ereg.e-gov.kg
• Hotlines and contact numbers for key ministries (listed above)

These resources are meant to make it easier for people to comply with the law and avoid penalties.

Implications for the Future

The GKNB’s investigation into the illegal citizenship scheme is ongoing. More details about the size and scope of the network are expected in the coming weeks. Authorities have warned that enforcement will only get stricter, with no more chances for legalization.

The United States 🇺🇸 is considering travel restrictions on Kyrgyzstan due to concerns about document security and cooperation on deportations. If such measures are imposed, it could affect Kyrgyz passport holders’ ability to travel, work, or study abroad.

For now, the main message from Kyrgyz authorities is clear: follow the rules, keep your documents in order, and do not try to use fake papers to gain citizenship or residency.

What Should Migrants and Host Organizations Do Now?

• Check all documents for accuracy and validity
• Contact relevant authorities if you have questions or need help with legalization or exit procedures
• Host organizations should review their records and ensure all foreign nationals they sponsor are in compliance with the law
• Stay informed about new developments by checking official government websites and hotlines

Solution-Oriented Steps for Affected Individuals

If you are a foreign national in Kyrgyzstan and worried about your status:

• Visit the Electronic Visa portal to apply for an exit visa if you need to leave
• Use the Online Registration portal to check your status or start the legalization process
• Gather all necessary documents and contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Labor for guidance
• Do not use or rely on fake documents—doing so can lead to deportation and criminal charges

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Kyrgyzstan’s Migration Policy

The exposure of the illegal citizenship scheme has forced Kyrgyzstan to take a hard look at its migration policies and enforcement practices. The government’s swift response shows a commitment to protecting the country’s borders and maintaining the integrity of its legal system. At the same time, the crackdown has created uncertainty for many foreign nationals, especially those who may have unknowingly become involved in fraudulent schemes.

As the investigation continues, it is important for all migrants and host organizations to stay informed, follow the law, and use official channels for any immigration needs. The situation is changing quickly, and further updates are expected as authorities release more information about the illegal citizenship scheme and its impact on migration policy in Kyrgyzstan.

For more information on legal migration procedures and official updates, visit the Kyrgyzstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Staying connected to official sources is the best way to protect yourself and ensure you remain in compliance with the law.

Learn Today

GKNB → State National Security Committee responsible for national security and immigration investigations in Kyrgyzstan.
Illegal Citizenship Scheme → Fraudulent use of fake court documents to obtain Kyrgyz citizenship unlawfully.
Operation Illegal → Government campaign launched June 10, 2025, to identify and deport undocumented migrants.
Legalization Window → Temporary period (until June 10, 2025) allowing foreigners to legalize status without fines or deportation.
Electronic Visa Portal → Online system for foreigners to apply for exit visas or legalize their immigration status.

This Article in a Nutshell

Kyrgyzstan uncovered an illegal citizenship scheme using forged court papers, triggering Operation Illegal. Authorities demand strict compliance, highlighting over 5,000 undocumented migrants and ending legalization on June 10. Foreigners must legalize or leave to avoid deportation amid ongoing investigations and international scrutiny.
— By VisaVerge.com