Additional Costs Associated With Studying MBBS in Kazakhstan – Visa, Insurance, Travel & More

Introduction

Studying MBBS in Kazakhstan can be an appealing option for Indian students as there are many universities offering medical courses with reasonably low tuition fees. However, you should expect further costs on top of your tuition fees and hostel charges.

There are various additional costs to consider when comparing universities. Costs can include visa processing, creating documents, medical insurance, flight tickets, airport transfers, accommodation formalities, currency conversions and personal items. All of these can add to the total cost of your course, even if the individual costs aren’t high.

By knowing what additional costs are involved with studying MBBS in Kazakhstan, you will be able to create a realistic budget for your family. Below we have outlined the main additional costs to consider when planning to study MBBS in Kazakhstan as an Indian student for the 2026–27 academic session.

1. Student Visa & Visa Invitations

One of the first additional costs you may come across when studying MBBS in Kazakhstan is the student visa. Most students will need to have the correct visa type for studying in Kazakhstan. This is usually the C9 visa. The university will usually assist you with getting the correct invitation/visa support letters from the university.

Your visa budget may include:

• Application Fee (for student visa)
• Visa invitation/visa support fees (if applicable)
• Passport photos
• Copies and printing
• Translation/notarisation (if required)
• Courier costs
• Visa extension/renewal fees (if applicable)

The Embassy of Kazakhstan in New Delhi provides information on C9 student visas. You can see how much it costs to apply for a student visa, what documents are required and what the visa fees are. Different fees are mentioned for single and multiple entry visas. However, you should contact the embassy directly to find out what the latest fee is.

C9+1

Tip: Do not book non-refundable flights until you have confirmed with the university and relevant authorities that your visa process has been confirmed.

2. Passport & Documents

When applying to study MBBS in Kazakhstan, you may not think about the costs involved with creating documents. Prior to travelling you may need to create various academic, identity and certificate documents.

Costs may include:

• Passport application/renewal
• Passport-sized photos
• Notarised copies of certificates
• Translation of documents
• Attestation/apostille
• Courier costs
• Scanning/printing/copies
• Medical Certificates & Lab reports

The exact documents required will vary depending on your university, situation and what the relevant authorities require. Some universities may ask for extra documents during your enrolment or visa process.

We recommend creating a list of documents you need to create. Make sure to double-check that spelling, DOB and passport details match up. If they don’t match up between your passport, admission letter and academic certificates then this can cause delays and increase administrative costs.

3. Medical Insurance

Medical insurance is an important factor to consider when studying abroad. You should not assume that your tuition fees will cover your health. Some universities may require international students to arrange medical insurance separately or through an approved provider.

For example, Astana Medical University has provided guidelines stating that international students should arrange medical insurance within a certain timeframe after arriving in Kazakhstan. If students fail to provide medical insurance they may not be allowed to attend practical classes.

AMU

Prior to travelling, ask your university:

• Is medical insurance required?
• Is the cost included in the admission package?
• Does the university require you to use a specific provider?
• How long is the insurance for?
• Are hospital visits, emergencies and prescribed medication covered?
• Do you need medical insurance for every academic year?

Remember that there will be limitations to your insurance. Some may not cover regular visits, dental work, medication, diagnostic tests and specialist visits.

The Government of Kazakhstan states that foreign nationals’ medical treatment will depend on their legal status and insurance. Temporary visitors should not assume they will receive the same healthcare.

GOV.KZ

A good idea would be to set aside some extra money for medical costs.

4. Flights

Flights are one of the largest costs you will incur when travelling to Kazakhstan. The cost will depend on what city you are travelling from, destination, airline, season and when you book your flight.

You may be travelling from a large city in India to Almaty, Astana or other university cities. Sometimes you may need to take a connecting flight.

Costs may include:

• International flight (one way)
• Extra checked baggage
• Excess baggage
• Seat selection
• Meals/other services
• Airport transfers
• Return flights during holidays

Flight costs can increase during peak times such as admission months, festivals and university start times. Last-minute bookings can increase the overall cost of your flight.

Rather than focusing on the cheapest flight, look at the overall cost. Low-cost flights may have limited baggage allowances or extra charges for checked baggage.

Tip: Firstly confirm when the university requires you to report. Compare different departure airports and baggage requirements. If multiple students are travelling together, you can organise your travels together. However, ensure each student has their own travel documents and confirmation.

5. Airport Transfers & Transport

Once you arrive in Kazakhstan you will need to get to your hostel. Depending on when you arrive and the location of the university, you may need to:

• Use a university-arranged airport pick-up
• Take a taxi
• Use public transport (buses etc.)
• Arrange private transport
• Use inter-city transport (if the university is in a different city)

Some universities/admission agencies may arrange airport pick-ups as part of the admission package. Others may charge extra. Confirm with your university.

It is a good idea to have some local currency to hand for immediate travel costs. If you arrive late at night you may not have many public transport options and may need to take a taxi.

During your academic year you may have regular transport costs such as bus, metro (if available), taxi and occasional inter-city transport. If you live close to the university you may not have high transport costs.

6. Deposit & Hostel Costs

Usually hostel costs will be compared between universities. However, there may be extra costs to pay upon arrival. Ask if the hostel cost mentioned includes just the hostel or other facilities.

Costs may include:

• Security deposit (refundable)
• Initial hostel payment
• Bedding & pillows
• Blankets & towels
• Laundry costs
• Room maintenance (if applicable)
• Kitchen utensils & basic items
• Internet/other costs (if not included)

If you choose to live in a private apartment you may incur higher initial costs. Your landlord may ask for a security deposit, advance payment for rent or an agency fee. You may also have to pay extra for electricity, heating, water & internet.

Before paying any deposits, ensure you have written confirmation of what your accommodation will include. Check if the deposit is refundable, if you will be sharing a room, what facilities are included and how far away from the university.

7. Migration Formalities

Upon arriving in Kazakhstan, international students may need to complete some migration formalities.

This will depend on your nationality, visa type, accommodation and how long you are staying. Many universities will guide international students through registration processes.

For example, Astana Medical University has provided guidelines for international students to complete temporary residence registration. You may need to submit your passport, proof of enrolment, accommodation details and medical insurance.

AMU

Ask the international office:

• Do I need to notify my arrival?
• Do I need to complete migration registration?
• Do I need to complete temporary residence formalities?
• Do I need to complete fingerprint registration?
• What documents do I need from my hostel/apartment owner?
• Are there any costs for official services?
• What is the deadline for submitting documents?

Not all universities will have the same process, so use the guidelines from your institution. Check what the current requirements are through official government sources. The Government of Kazakhstan provides guidelines for temporary residence permits for eligible foreign nationals.

GOV.KZ+1

8. Food, Groceries & Kitchen Costs

You will have regular costs for food. However, you may not consider the initial cost of setting up a basic kitchen. If you cook your own food you may save money in the long run; however, you may need to purchase several household items.

Initial costs may include:

• Basic cooking utensils
• Plates, bowls & cutlery
• Water bottles & containers
• Basic spices & ingredients
• Cleaning products
• Grocery bags & other items

Monthly food costs will depend on your eating habits, what city you are in, how much groceries cost and if you cook or eat at restaurants.

Indian students may prefer to cook familiar foods so check if your hostel has a kitchen. Some accommodation may restrict you from cooking in your room.

Purchasing groceries from local markets/supermarkets, cooking your own food and sharing basic kitchen items with your roommates can help you keep your costs down.

9. Mobile SIM, Internet & Communication Costs

You will need a reliable way to communicate with your family in India, university and classmates. A local SIM can help you with everyday communication and internet.

Costs may include:

• Local SIM
• Mobile top-up
• Internet data
• International calls
• Home broadband (if living in private accommodation)

Before travelling check that your phones are compatible with the network bands and if they are unlocked. Ask your university or senior students what reliable mobile networks are available.

Using video calls and messaging apps can help you stay in touch with family.

10. Winter Clothing & Personal Items

Kazakhstan can get very cold in the winter. You may need to purchase some winter clothing once you arrive. This can be a large cost for those who are not used to living in a cold climate.

Winter items may include:

• Warm jackets
• Thermal clothing
• Sweaters & sweatshirts
• Gloves & woollen hats
• Scarves
• Winter shoes/boots
• Thick socks

You may also need to budget for personal items such as toiletries, laundry products, stationery, medication & other items.

You do not need to purchase all winter items prior to travelling. Compare prices in India and Kazakhstan to see what is more affordable to purchase.

11. Books & Learning Materials

As a medical student you will need to regularly study and prepare for practical work. Although some universities will provide access to libraries and online resources you may need to purchase additional learning materials.

Costs may include:

• Medical books
• Notebooks & stationery
• Printing & copying
• Lab coats
• Practical notebooks
• Basic medical tools (if required)
• Online learning materials

Ask your university what items are required and what are optional. Do not purchase all the books straight away as this can incur unnecessary costs. Recommended books will often be available in the university library.

It is a good idea to speak to senior students before purchasing expensive medical tools or learning packages.

12. Currency Conversion & Banking Costs

Generally you will need access to local currency. The exchange rate can fluctuate so you may not receive the same amount as you estimated during your admissions planning.

Costs may include:

• Currency conversion
• Bank fees
• International card fees
• ATM fees
• Currency conversion differences
• Card replacement & other banking costs

Compare what fees and exchange rates your bank and other authorised providers offer. Ask your bank if you can use your debit/credit card internationally.

It can be useful to have a reasonable amount of local currency to hand. However do not carry too much. Keep emergency funds separate.

13. Holiday Travel & Emergencies

During semester breaks you may travel around Kazakhstan or return to India. This may not be included in your annual fee.

Costs may include:

• Domestic train/flight
• Inter-city bus
• Return flights to India
• Local sightseeing & accommodation
• Extra baggage
• Unexpected changes

It is a good idea for families to have emergency funds. This can help if your flight is delayed, you lose items, need urgent medical attention or your accommodation changes unexpectedly.

Do not treat your emergency fund as money to spend on shopping or fun. Keeping it separate can help you manage any unexpected situations without affecting your monthly budget.

14. Estimated Additional Costs

Below is a list to help you plan. This is not a set fee from your university. The actual costs will depend on your university, city, travel dates and personal choices.

15. How Indian Students Can Save on Hidden Costs

You should not have to sacrifice your education, safety or essential services to manage additional costs. By planning you can save on unnecessary costs.

• Ask for a full breakdown of fees: Ask for a breakdown of tuition, hostel, insurance, visa support and any other mandatory costs.
• Check what is included in your admission package: Some expenses may already be included so you won’t need to pay twice.
• Prepare documents in advance: This can help reduce last-minute courier, translation and admin costs.
• Compare flight options: Check baggage allowance, how long the flight will take and if you need a connecting flight.
• Understand your insurance: Choose a provider that meets the university requirements. Understand what isn’t covered.
• Share accommodation: You can save on some household and utility costs by sharing suitable accommodation.
• Cook your own meals: If you cook regularly this can help you save on food costs.
• Have emergency funds: Have money set aside for any unexpected medical, travel and accommodation costs.
• Keep records of payments: Keep a record of payments made for your visa, insurance, hostel deposit & university.
• Use official sources: Use the international office at your university and official government information.

Conclusion

There are many additional costs to consider when planning to study MBBS in Kazakhstan. Although tuition fees and hostel charges are important parts of your budget, expenses such as visa processing, document preparation, medical insurance, flights, airport transfers, migration formalities, food, winter clothing and study materials can also increase the overall cost.

Indian students and their families should prepare a complete financial plan before travelling. Ask the selected university for a written breakdown of compulsory and optional charges, confirm the latest visa and insurance requirements, and keep some emergency funds aside.

For more information about universities, admission procedures and expenses, visit MBBS in Kazakhstan. Students should also check relevant medical education information through the National Medical Commission (NMC), explore the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), refer to the World Health Organization (WHO) and visit the NEET official website for applicable examination information.

Planning for additional expenses in advance can help Indian students manage their finances more confidently and focus on their medical education in Kazakhstan.