Understanding Kazakhstan’s New Visas for Global Talent
Kazakhstan Introduces New Visa Categories to Attract Skilled Professionals, Entrepreneurs, and Remote Workers
The Kazakh Foreign Ministry recently hosted a briefing to unveil three new visa categories aimed at skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers seeking long-term opportunities in the country. These new visas include the Neo Nomad Visa (B12-1), Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1), and Permanent Residence Visa (B9).
During the briefing, Deputy Foreign Minister Roman Vassilenko highlighted the importance of mobility in the 21st century, noting that Kazakhstan is ready to welcome digital nomads, innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators. Vassilenko emphasized Kazakhstan’s belief that mobility fuels innovation and diversity drives progress, leading to the implementation of smart visa solutions and investment-friendly frameworks.
The Neo Nomad Visa is designed for professionals and digital entrepreneurs looking to work remotely in Kazakhstan, offering a multiple-entry visa valid for up to one year. The Digital Nomad Visa targets IT professionals relocating to Kazakhstan for permanent residence, while the Permanent Residence Visa provides a pathway for professionals in high-demand fields to integrate into the job market.
The new visa categories have already attracted interest from international visitors, with the Neo Nomad Visa being granted to digital nomads from the U.S., the United Kingdom, Singapore, South Korea, and Latvia. Yerzhan Yerkinbayev, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports, highlighted Kazakhstan’s commitment to openness and accessibility, noting the country’s growth in tourism with 15.3 million visitors in 2024.
Mir Zakiyev, Deputy Chairman of the Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Development Committee, noted that the new visa program supports Kazakhstan’s digital economy and attracts highly qualified foreign specialists, positioning the country as a technology hub on the international stage.
The briefing also included a Q&A session where diplomats and media attendees engaged with officials on visa policies. Estonia’s Consul Maija Tasa expressed enthusiasm for Kazakhstan’s initiative, highlighting the similarities with Estonia’s digital nomad visa program.
Kazakhstan continues to position itself as a gateway for global opportunities by promoting mobility, diversity, and connectivity. With visa-free entry for citizens of over 80 countries and an open skies policy, the country aims to strengthen its international connectivity and attract more visitors.
In conclusion, Kazakhstan’s vision for openness and connectivity aligns with its goal of embracing innovation, diversity, and progress. The new visa categories mark a significant step towards attracting skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to contribute to the country’s growing digital economy and technological advancements.
