A responsible souvenir is also a legal one

Before you pack it or buy it

Customs rules in Kazakhstan are not only about obvious prohibited items. Cultural objects, old textiles, archaeological material, wildlife products, medicines, drones, cash and precious metals can all raise questions at the border. When in doubt, verify before purchase or departure; a market seller is not a customs authority.

Guidelines for Buying Souvenirs in KazakhstanItems You Cannot ExportItems protected by the state and included in the list of cultural heritage of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Exhibits from museums, archives, and state or private collections.Artifacts related to the history, archaeology, and culture of Kazakhstan, as well as to famous historical figures.Parts of architectural, historical, and artistic monuments.Any items found during archaeological excavations.Icons, manuscripts, and religious items made before the mid-19th century.Unique items over 50 years old made of gold, platinum, silver, or using precious and semi-precious stones, without special permission.Rare animals and plants listed in the Red Book, as well as products made from them (skins, horns, bones, feathers).Weapons, ammunition, and dangerous items without special permits.Narcotic and psychotropic substances, as well as potent drugs without a prescriptionGoods requiring special permission for export from KazakhstanItems of cultural value that are not completely prohibited from export but are subject to examination and permission from the authorized authorities.Antiques and works of art created more than 50 years ago that are not included in the list of cultural heritage, subject to an expert opinion.National musical instruments, applied art and household items of historical or cultural value.Jewelry and items made of precious metals and stones, if they exceed the established norms or are of cultural value.Pets — if accompanied by a veterinary passport, certificates, and international permits.Plants, seeds, seedlings, and products of plant origin — if accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate.Products of animal origin (meat, fish, caviar, etc.) — if accompanied by a veterinary certificate and within permissible limits.Medicines containing potent, narcotic, or psychotropic substances — if accompanied by a doctor's prescription and in limited quantities.Weapons, sporting weapons, hunting knives, and their components — with permits from the relevant authorities.Cash and valuables exceeding the limit established by law — subject to mandatory declaration.