Gamers in Kazakhstan can now voluntarily limit their participation in gambling through a digital format. According to the press service of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan on March 18, 2024, citizens and permanent residents of the country can submit a request to voluntarily restrict their involvement in gambling and betting for a period of six to 12 months through the eGov mobile app.
This procedure is outlined in Article 15-1 of the Kazakhstan Law on Gambling Business and before automation, individuals had to submit requests in paper format within eight working days. Specialists emphasize that this new service significantly reduces the processing time of applications and simplifies the self-restriction process from participating in gambling activities. This allows citizens, especially those excessively engaged in gambling, to instantly block access to all legal gambling establishments and licensed bookmakers' websites.
To self-restrict from gambling, individuals simply need to download the eGov mobile app on their phone and have an electronic digital signature. The statement is submitted online by signing the application with an electronic digital signature. Once submitted, the application is instantly registered, and the individual is added to the list of restricted persons from participating in gambling and betting for a period of six months to one year without the right to withdraw the application. Additionally, individuals can apply for an extension of the restriction before it expires.
Each request from gambling business entities will be processed individually based solely on the individual identification number without disclosing any other personal data of the individuals on the list. Third-party submissions of applications are not permitted. Alongside the digital process, individuals still have the option to submit a written request (in paper form) for self-restriction from gambling through gambling business organizers according to Article 15-1 of the law.
On March 16, 2024, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for legislative measures to combat gambling addiction during the National Assembly in Atyrau. The initiative aims to provide a more accessible and efficient way for individuals to control their gambling habits and promote responsible gaming practices in Kazakhstan.
