Kazakhstan Launches Neo Nomad Visa to Attract Remote Workers

Astana, The Gulf Observer: The Ministry of Tourism and Sport of Kazakhstan has introduced a new “Neo Nomad” visa, catering to “modern nomads” – foreign professionals who work remotely while traveling globally. The initiative aims to attract remote workers to Kazakhstan, offering a one-year stay for eligible applicants employed in fields such as programming, marketing, finance, consulting, design, and e-commerce.

Inspired by similar programs in over 50 countries post-pandemic, the Neo Nomad visa requires applicants to prove a minimum monthly income of $3,000 earned outside Kazakhstan. Additional requirements include health insurance and a certificate of no criminal record. According to the Ministry, the visa will enable these individuals to live, work, and spend in Kazakhstan without entering the local labor market, thereby benefiting the nation’s economy.

The program’s potential economic impact is estimated at 3.6 billion tenge annually, should 500 individuals obtain the visa. Minister of Tourism and Sport Yerbol Myrzabossynov emphasized Kazakhstan’s commitment to attracting “neo-nomads” globally, noting the appeal of Astana and Almaty, both ranked among the world’s Top 150 cities for remote work. “There are more than 35 million neo-nomads worldwide, and we intend to create all the conditions to attract them to our country,” stated Myrzabossynov.

This new visa program highlights Kazakhstan’s forward-looking approach to tourism, leveraging the digital work culture to enhance its global appeal and contribute to local economic growth.