Key Takeaways
- Kazakhstan’s Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1) launched February 7, 2025, targeting IT professionals to boost its digital economy and innovation.
- Applicants need an Astana Hub petition, valid passport, proof of housing, medical insurance, and financial stability for eligibility.
- The visa simplifies pathways to permanent residency and requires a 45-day processing period via Kazakhstan’s Visa and Migration Portal.
Kazakhstan officially unveiled its Digital Nomad Residency program on February 7, 2025, marking an important milestone in its efforts to attract global IT professionals. Aimed at advancing the digital economy, this program is part of a broader governmental strategy that includes three new visa categories designed for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. The launch is seen as a step forward in positioning Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 as a global hub for talent and innovation, particularly in the technology sector.
What is the Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1)?
The Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1) is a specialized visa category tailored to IT professionals who aim to establish a long-term presence in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿. Its primary purpose is to simplify the integration of foreign IT talent into Kazakhstan’s workforce while contributing to the economy’s overall development. Unlike tourist or short-term work visas, this visa allows individuals to explore the country’s growing digital ecosystem, offering a unique opportunity for career advancement and personal growth.
Eligibility and Key Benefits
The program is open primarily to IT professionals whose skills align with the country’s technological needs. Applicants must work in the IT sector and receive a petition from an authorized body like Astana Hub, a well-known innovation hub in Kazakhstan that fosters the development of technology startups.
Among its notable benefits:
- Career Opportunities: The visa provides access to Kazakhstan’s 🇰🇿 dynamic digital economy, which is growing alongside strong government support.
- Simplified Residency Pathways: Holders of the Digital Nomad Visa can transition more easily into permanent residency compared to other visa types.
- Flexibility: Start with a single-entry electronic visa and later upgrade to a multiple-entry paper visa, thereby adapting the arrangement to long-term career intentions.
- High Standard of Living: Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 combines thriving urban centers, a high quality of life, and captivating natural landscapes, making it an appealing destination.
Application Process
The application process for the Digital Nomad Visa is both streamlined and accessible. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Secure Authorization: Obtain a petition from Astana Hub or a similar IT sector authority.
- Prepare Documentation: Submit key documents, such as a completed visa application form, proof of accommodation (rental agreement or property deed), a valid passport with six months validity, international medical insurance, and a monthly bank statement showing financial stability.
- Application Submission: Apply through Kazakhstan’s Visa and Migration Portal under the supervision of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
- Approval: Once approved, applicants will receive an electronic single-entry visa valid for up to one year.
Notably, applicants can upgrade their electronic visa into a multiple-entry paper visa, granting increased flexibility to travel in and out of Kazakhstan 🇰🇿.
Required Documentation
To ensure a smooth application process, you must provide the correct documents. These include:
- Completed visa application form and questionnaire
- A valid passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages
- Proof of housing arrangements within Kazakhstan 🇰🇿
- International medical insurance for coverage within Kazakhstan
- Recent monthly home-country bank statement highlighting account details and balance
Applicants are strongly advised to double-check requirements with reliable sources like the Astana Hub website or the Ministry of Digital Development for any last-minute changes or clarifications.
Processing Time and Cost
The application review period is 45 calendar days, during which you cannot undertake any preparatory travel to Kazakhstan until you receive the green light. While official costs for the Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1) have not yet been disclosed, existing work permits for foreigners in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 range between $950 and $1,729 USD, depending on the type of job, field of expertise, and employer.
Applicants should budget accordingly and prepare for possible administrative costs tied to the process. It is also advisable to monitor pricing updates on official platforms like the eGov.kz portal.
From Visa to Permanent Residency
One of the standout features of the Digital Nomad Visa program is its simplified pathway to permanent residency. Visa holders who secure approval from the Ministry of Digital Development can apply for preliminary permission to stay in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 on a long-term basis. Using Kazakhstan’s eGov digital services portal, applicants can make an official request for residency. After receiving approval, they need to finalize the process with public service centers upon arrival.
These streamlined processes make the Digital Nomad Visa a practical choice for professionals eyeing a long-term future in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿.
Tax Obligations for Visa Holders
While the Digital Nomad Visa offers a wealth of opportunities, holders are subject to certain tax obligations:
- Tax Residency: Nomads can select either resident status (taxed on worldwide income) or non-resident status (taxed only on income earned in Kazakhstan).
- Tax Identification Number (TIN): To fulfill tax obligations, visa holders need a TIN, available from the “Government for Citizens” state corporation within one working day.
- Tax Rates: Individuals are taxed at a flat 10% rate, with tax returns required by March 31 of the year following the reporting year.
Articles 321 and 338 of the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 govern these obligations, ensuring that compliance is straightforward and transparent.
Recent Developments and Growing Momentum
Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 has been doubling down in recent years to establish itself as a destination for skilled foreign talent. Recently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs initiated changes in legislation to offer IT professionals more favorable visa terms. These proposals have already received government approval and endorsements from relevant state bodies, indicating strong institutional alignment with the initiative.
Demand for digital nomad-related programs is steadily rising. According to Google Trends, online searches related to the Digital Nomad Visa program in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 show consistent interest, reflecting the growing awareness of the opportunity. Analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests that the combination of Kazakhstan’s strategic location, competitive business environment, and supportive policies makes it a vital entry point into Central Asia’s burgeoning technology industry.
Ideal Destination for IT Professionals
Kazakhstan’s position as one of Central Asia’s fastest-growing economies further enhances its appeal. With impressive digital infrastructure, sprawling urban developments, and a focus on tech-driven growth, Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 provides fertile ground for professionals seeking new challenges.
Astana Hub, located in the heart of the country, serves as the focal point for this transformation. It supports local startups and connects global tech talent with investment opportunities. By partnering with the Ministry of Digital Development, Astana Hub also plays a key role in executing the Digital Nomad Residency program effectively and efficiently.
Moreover, Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 offers an enriching lifestyle blend of modern amenities and an adventurous spirit. Be it the thriving tech scene in cities like Almaty or the breathtaking beauty of natural wonders like the Charyn Canyon, professionals settling in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 can enjoy both career success and unique life experiences.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa reflects Kazakhstan’s commitment to fostering a technologically advanced and globally integrated economy. By creating pathways for skilled IT professionals to contribute to its rapidly expanding digital sector, the country is positioning itself as a magnet for innovation and expertise.
As the program evolves, it will significantly impact how Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 attracts and retains global talent. For potential applicants, staying updated on developments through resources like the Astana Hub and the Ministry of Digital Development will be essential. Interested professionals are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative, potentially shaping Kazakhstan’s future while building their own rewarding careers in one of Central Asia’s most dynamic countries.
For more details on the Digital Nomad Visa program or current application procedures, you can visit Kazakhstan’s Visa and Migration Portal. It offers authoritative guidance on electronic visa applications and residency processes for international professionals.
Learn Today
Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1) → A visa for foreign IT professionals enabling long-term work and integration into Kazakhstan’s digital economy.
Astana Hub → Kazakhstan’s innovation center supporting technology startups and playing a central role in the Digital Nomad Residency program.
International Medical Insurance → Coverage providing health protection abroad, required for visa applicants traveling or staying in foreign countries.
Tax Residency → A legal status determining whether an individual is taxed on worldwide income or only on income earned domestically.
Tax Identification Number (TIN) → A unique number issued to individuals for fulfilling tax obligations within Kazakhstan’s legal and financial systems.
This Article in a Nutshell
Kazakhstan’s Digital Nomad Visa invites IT professionals to thrive in Central Asia’s tech hub. Launched February 7, 2025, it offers simplified residency, career growth, and access to Astana Hub’s innovation ecosystem. Combining government support, a 10% flat tax, and scenic living, it’s a golden gateway for talent seeking opportunity and adventure.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• Kazakhstan Explores Partnership with Morocco in Digital Morocco 2030 Plan
• Hong Kong Online E-Visa: A Step-By-Step Guide for New Digital Applications
• Top 10 Countries for Digital Nomad Visas in 2025 Revealed
• New Zealand Opens Doors to Digital Nomads with New Working Visa
• Digital IDs for Immigrants: Helpful Tool or Privacy Threat?
