In light of potential restrictions on Telegram's operations in Russia, owners of popular channels have begun actively seeking new jurisdictions for business registration. This is necessary to ensure stable advertising revenue in case the messenger is blocked. The most attractive options for re-registration have turned out to be Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Belarus, where the conditions for opening companies are the most favorable, according to media reports.
Entrepreneurs are carefully studying tax regimes and registration requirements in the EAEU and CIS countries, trying to find the optimal combination of ease of registration and tax burden. Each country has its unique features that influence this choice.
The highest number of those wishing to open a business is choosing Kyrgyzstan. The main reason is the simplicity of registration and low taxes. As of January 1, 2026, changes to the tax legislation have come into effect, making it even more attractive for those working in international markets.
The single tax rate for businesses operating outside Kyrgyzstan has been reduced from 1% to 0.1% of revenue. This rule applies to taxpayers working abroad, and starting in 2026, they can only apply the single tax regime.
Another important advantage is the ability to open a limited liability company (LLC) without obtaining a residence permit, using a simplified system. The tax rate is 4% of revenue for standard types of activities and 0.1% for export services.
Kazakhstan: Personal Presence Required
Kazakhstan ranks second in popularity. To register a limited liability partnership (LLP), a foreign citizen must be personally present in the country for at least a week to open a bank account. A certificate confirming the absence from the register of disqualified persons is also required.
Kazakhstan allows 100% foreign participation in business without the mandatory presence of a local partner. The corporate income tax rate is 20%. The registration procedure is automated and available through Public Service Centers or the state services portal.
Non-residents need to obtain an Individual Identification Number (IIN) and, for citizens of non-EAEU countries, a business immigrant visa of category C5.
Armenia: No Residence Permit, but High Taxes
Armenia allows foreigners to open companies without a residence permit. Here, 100% foreign ownership is permitted, and there is no requirement to appoint a local director.
However, the tax burden here is significantly higher than in other countries in the region. The standard corporate tax rate is 18% on profits, along with a mandatory value-added tax (VAT) of 20%. There are alternative regimes for small businesses, but for serious projects with high turnover, the tax burden remains substantial.
Belarus: Strict Rules and Difficulties for Foreigners
Belarus has proven to be the least popular for business registration. There are stricter requirements for foreigners here. To open an individual entrepreneur (IE), one must obtain a residence permit, while this requirement is not mandatory for LLCs.
The tax system includes mandatory contributions to the Social Protection Fund, and tax rates for individual entrepreneurs range from 20% to 30% depending on the regime. For limited liability companies, the rate is 20% or 6% under the simplified system.
Business legislation in Belarus is subject to changes. At the end of 2025, a law was adopted clarifying the rules for individual entrepreneurs and expanding preferences for organizations with up to 50 employees. Nevertheless, the registration procedures and requirements for foreigners remain more complicated compared to Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.
The record Mass Re-registration of Russian Telegram Channels in the CIS and Kyrgyzstan first appeared on K-News.
