Information for Stateless People in the Kyrgyz Republic

If you are stateless, you can apply for official recognition in Kyrgyzstan. The authorized body responsible for statelessness procedures is the Department of Population Registration, under the Ministry of Digital Development. 

Steps to apply: 

1. Visit your local Population Registration Office
   These are located in each region and are sometimes part of Public Service Centers (PSC) or “passport offices.” You can also ask for directions at your local mayor’s office (aiyl okmotu). 
2. Submit an application
   You will need to fill out a request form stating that you want to be recognized as a stateless person. Officials may help you complete it and will explain what documents are required. 
3. Provide any available documents
   This includes: 

• Old USSR passports 
• Birth or marriage certificates 
• Identity documents from other countries (even if expired) 
• Written explanations if you have no documents 

If you do not have any papers, you must explain your situation in writing. They may interview you or ask questions to confirm your background. 

      4. Wait for the Commission’s decision
A government commission will review your case. They may contact foreign governments or review records to confirm you do not have any nationality. 

      5. Receive a decision and certificate
If your application is approved, you will receive a Stateless Person’s Certificate. This document serves as your main ID and can help you apply for other legal documents. 

If you are officially recognized as a stateless person in Kyrgyzstan, you will receive a Stateless Person’s Certificate and be granted permanent residence. 

Your rights include: 

• Legal Stay: You can live in Kyrgyzstan without fear of deportation. 
• Freedom of Movement: You may travel freely within Kyrgyzstan. 
• Work: You can work without a separate work permit, including in formal jobs or self-employment. 
• Healthcare: You can access healthcare services by enrolling in the national insurance scheme. 
• Education: You and your children can go to public schools and universities. 
• Social Benefits: You are eligible for pensions, disability assistance, and poverty-targeted support under Kyrgyz law (if you meet general criteria). 
• Property and Civil Registration: You can own property, register a marriage or birth, and receive documents like a driver’s license. 

Your obligations include: 

• Follow Kyrgyz Laws: You must obey the laws of the Kyrgyz Republic. 
• Keep Documents Updated: Renew your certificate or residence permit when needed. 
• Register Your Address: You must register your address and update it if you move. 
• Report Changes: If you acquire a nationality later, you must inform the authorities. 
• Do Not Hold Dual Claims: If you are recognized as stateless, you generally cannot also pursue refugee status at the same time. 

The Law on Citizenship of the Kyrgyz Republic allows stateless people to apply for citizenship after fulfilling certain conditions. 

General naturalization requirements: 

• 5 years of continuous residence in Kyrgyzstan 
• Basic knowledge of Kyrgyz or Russian 
• Legal income or ability to support yourself 
• Respect for Kyrgyz laws and Constitution 

Simplified Procedure: 

Some groups can apply under a simplified path, including: 

• Recognized refugees (after 3 years of residence) 
• Spouses of Kyrgyz citizens (after 3 years of marriage) 
• Ethnic Kyrgyz (under return programs) 
• Those with special contributions (skills, education, investment) 

For most stateless individuals, the 5-year residence rule applies. However, if you previously held asylum-seeker or refugee status, those years often count toward the total. 

The naturalization application is made through Population Registration Offices. You’ll need documents showing your residence duration, language ability, and other background checks. The final decision comes by Presidential decree.