Kazakhstan Expands Visas for Entrepreneurs & Digital Nomads

Kazakhstan has introduced three new visa categories to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers, aiming at reinforcing its position as a global talent hub. Announced on February 7, 2025, these visas cater to digital nomads, IT professionals, and high-demand specialists seeking permanent residence.

The Neo Nomad Visa (B12-1), officially announced on November 1, 2024, is designed for remote workers and digital entrepreneurs earning income from abroad. It offers a one-year multiple-entry stay, extendable for another year, with family inclusion. Applicants must show a stable monthly income of $3,000, tax declarations, criminal record clearance, and health insurance. Nationals from 48 pre-approved countries are exempt from providing an invitation letter. The streamlined process ensures approvals within five working days.

The Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1) targets IT professionals aiming for permanent residence instead. It starts as a one-year single-entry electronic visa, later upgradable to a multiple-entry paper visa through the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Applicants must secure a petition from Astana Hub or an authorized IT sector body.

Finally, the Permanent Residence Visa (B9) is for specialists in fields like medicine, science, education, and innovation. It begins as a single-entry visa valid for 90 days, with an option for an annual multiple-entry extension.

Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry highlighted the broader vision behind these initiatives, stating:

"These new visa categories are part of our strategy to position Kazakhstan as a global talent and innovation hub. We aim to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers who can contribute to our economic growth and diversification."