A comprehensive migration policy and legislation could help cities prepare for and respond to emerging problems. Developing a system in Kazakhstan that makes it easier for migrants to register, and that allows for accurate data on migration flows for urban planning, should be a top priority. This could be done by using citizens’ identification numbers rather than their registration status as the basis for access to public services. Strengthening the public administration of subnational governments will be central to “getting cities right”. Intergovernmental relations are based on hierarchical subordination of lower levels of government, so that the level immediately above exercises considerable influence over local decisions. This is evident both in the appointment of akims by the upper executive power and the degree of dependence on transfers from the upper level of government.