Kazakhstan · Legislation
Legislation and primary sources
Where to find the authoritative text of the law in Kazakhstan, and how to confirm it is still in force.
Sources of law, ranked
- The Constitution
- Supreme; enforced by the Constitutional Court restored in 2023.
- Codes and laws of Parliament
- The Civil Code, Criminal Code, Tax Code and Labour Code are the principal instruments.
- Presidential decrees
- Have the force of law in defined areas and rank above government acts.
- Ratified international treaties
- Article 4 gives them priority over domestic law, except where the treaty requires implementing legislation.
- AIFC Acts
- Apply only within the Astana International Financial Centre and are based on English common law.
The legislative process
Bills are introduced in the Mazhilis by deputies or the Government, and must pass the Mazhilis before going to the Senate. If the Senate rejects a bill it returns to the Mazhilis, and a joint commission may be convened. The President may veto, and an override requires two-thirds of each chamber. The President may also declare a bill urgent, requiring consideration within a month, and may issue decrees with the force of law where Parliament has delegated that power. Laws enter force ten days after official publication unless otherwise stated.
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