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Employer-sponsored; the Kazakhstani company must obtain a work permit quota allocation from the government before applying. Tied to the sponsoring employer; permit holders must register with migration authorities within 5 days of arrival.
For foreign nationals investing in Kazakhstani businesses or projects. Minimum investment thresholds apply and vary by sector; successful applicants receive a renewable residence permit.
Issued to employees of companies registered in the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). Offers a simplified, fast-track application process and AIFC employees are exempt from standard work permit quotas.
Available after 5 years of legal residence or via investment. Requires no criminal record, financial self-sufficiency, and a basic Kazakh or Russian language test. Renewable every 10 years and allows unrestricted work.
Kazakhstan has become an increasingly popular expat destination following global events in 2022, with a simplified process for Russian and other CIS nationals. Most nationalities receive 30-day visa-free entry, and Kazakhstan offers a long-term Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for workers, investors, and family members. The country has simplified its immigration procedures significantly and the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) has its own visa and residency scheme for finance professionals.
Foreign workers in Kazakhstan need an employer-sponsored Work Permit issued by the Ministry of Labor. The employer must apply for a corporate work permit quota first, and then obtain individual permits for each foreign worker. IT and financial sector employees may qualify for AIFC-specific permits with more flexibility. Work permits are generally issued for 1 year, renewable.
Spouses and minor children of work permit holders can obtain dependent residence permits. The process requires the primary holder work permit, marriage certificate, and birth certificates for children. Dependent permits do not automatically grant work authorization; a separate work permit is required for employment.
Kazakhstan has a flat personal income tax rate of 10% on most income, which is among the lowest in the world. Non-residents are taxed on Kazakhstan-sourced income only at 20% flat rate. Kazakhstan has tax treaties with about 50 countries. There is no inheritance tax, and corporate tax is 20%. The tax system is considered straightforward and business-friendly.
Kazakhstan has been investing significantly in its public healthcare system, though quality varies greatly between Almaty/Astana and regional cities. Most expats and companies use private clinics in the major cities. International health insurance with medical evacuation is strongly recommended. Rixos and other international-standard private hospitals are available in major cities.
Opening a bank account in Kazakhstan is relatively straightforward with a passport and IIN (Individual Identification Number). Major banks include Halyk Bank, Kaspi Bank, and Jusan Bank. Kaspi Bank app is extremely popular and functions as a super-app for payments, shopping, and banking. International transfers are available but may face limitations due to international sanctions compliance.
Kazakhstan offers an Investor Visa for foreign nationals investing at least $300,000 USD in Kazakhstani companies or real estate. The AIFC (Astana International Financial Centre) has a special economic zone with streamlined business registration and its own residence permit scheme. After 3 years of continuous legal stay, some visa categories can convert to permanent residency.
| Program | Min. Investment | Residency | Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Investor Visa | $300k+ | ✓ Yes | No |
| AIFC Participant Residency | — | ✓ Yes | No |