Kazakhstan's Push for Immigrants: New Visa Options

You can always tell the years where a country has committed to a big marketing push. 2025 was the year of Kazakhstan, with an explicit focus on attracting international investment and tourism. My TikTok feed is pretty travel heavy already, so for dozens of KZ videos to breakthrough this year means they've done a good job working the algorithm.

In addition to expanding visa-free access for tourists and business visitors recently, KZ also launched a slate of new visa types and investment options early in 2025:

Neo Nomad Visa (B12-1)

Technically this launched in late 2024, but it's built for remote workers and digital founders earning income abroad. It is a multiple-entry visa valid for up to one year, with the option to extend for another year inside Kazakhstan. Family members can apply for the same duration, but they cannot work locally. This is a lifestyle visa rather than a pathway into the local labour market.

Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1)

Targeted at high-demand IT professionals who plan to relocate and apply for permanent residence. Applicants start with a single-entry electronic visa, then convert it to a multiple-entry paper visa valid for up to one year. A petition from Astana Hub or another authorized IT body is required. This visa is designed to bridge relocation and permanent residency.

Permanent Residence Visa (B9)

For skilled professionals in priority fields such as medicine, science, education, innovation, and the creative industries. Issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa valid for up to 90 days. Once in-country, holders can apply for permanent residence and integrate into the local job market. Best suited for people planning a long-term move rather than remote work.

Investor Visa (A5)

Kazakhstan is rolling out a long‑term investor visa aimed at attracting foreign capital. Foreign nationals who invest at least  $300,000 into the charter capital of a Kazakh company or local publicly traded securities can apply for this investor visa. It allows applicants to seek a residence permit valid for up to 10 years.

Curious to see the results of this next year in expat / nomad rankings. The official government initiative to attract foreign investment and people called for action through 2029, so definitely expect more KZ in your feeds in the coming years.