An ancestral land of nomads, Kazakhstan is preparing to welcome a new generation of itinerant travelers: remote workers. In November 2024, the Central Asian country will launch its " Neo Nomad Visa" a one-year residence permit for digital professionals. A first in the region, it could well be emulated by its neighbors.
A tailor-made visa
Announced by President Kassym-Jomart Tokaïev in person, this new visa is aimed at freelancers and employees who can work from home at 100%. Conditions sine qua non proof of monthly income of at least US$3,000. Applicants must also have a clean criminal record and take out international health insurance.
For the time being, only certain business sectors are eligible: IT, consulting, finance, marketing, design And e-commerce. The Kazakh government has yet to specify whether the visa will be renewable, or whether it will allow spouses and children to be included in the application.
As far as taxation is concerned, nothing is yet set in stone. At present, non-residents are taxed only on their income generated in Kazakhstan. Residents, on the other hand, are subject to a flat-rate tax of 10% on their worldwide income. It remains to be seen what regime will apply to holders of the Neo Nomad Visa.
An economic gamble
With this program, Kazakhstan hopes to attract 500 digital nomads a year.
According to estimates by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, this will generate nearly $7.3 million in annual economic spin-offs. " These people will contribute to the Kazakh economy without competing with the local labor market." underlines the Minister Yerbol Myrzabossynov.
The initiative is part of a global post-pandemic trend. More than 50 countries now offer similar visas, courting an estimated 35 million nomadic workers worldwide. " We intend to create the right conditions to attract them to our country." says Mr. Myrzabossynov. " Almaty and Astana are already among the top 150 destinations for neo-nomads. "
How to live in Kazakhstan
For future Neo Nomad Visa, Kazakhstan offers an affordable living environment, albeit more expensive than some might imagine. The cost of living is comparable to that of Brazil. A single person can get by on 500 dollars a month, but digital nomads will need to budget more, especially for accommodation.
Where to set up?
À AlmatyThe Dostyk, Al-Farabu, Seyfullin and Makatayev districts, the former capital and economic heart of the country, are popular with expatriates. They offer easy access to parks, bars and cafés. In Astana, today's capital, the Mangilik El and Botanical Garden areas are particularly sought-after.
For your budget, allow between 700 and $1,000 per month for a comfortable one-bedroom apartment. In Astana, some expatriates report renting modern, furnished accommodation for between $20 and $40 a day, depending on the length of the contract.
Every day
Security is generally not a major problem, provided you remain vigilant. Pickpockets and petty theft do occur, as elsewhere. However, expatriates report a general feeling of safety, particularly in the major cities.
In terms of transport, pre-booked cabs remain the safest option for new arrivals. The " gypsy cabs However, "unmetered" vehicles, where you negotiate directly with the driver, are commonplace and considered reliable by the locals.
When it comes to food, opt for local, seasonal produce to keep your budget in check. Imported goods can quickly add up: one expatriate reported having paid $30 for two mangoes!
Kazakhstan, a predominantly Muslim country (65%) with a large Orthodox Christian community, remains relatively conservative. While there is no strict dress code, it's best to dress respectfully. Respect for elders is a cardinal value, and traditional gender roles are still prevalent in society.
A visa, then what?
For those wishing to test the waters before committing themselves, 13 countries currently benefit from a visa waiver agreement for stays of up to 90 days. These includeArmeniaAzerbaijan Georgia or Mongolia.