Kazakhstan is ushering in fresh opportunities for global talent with the introduction of three new visa schemes aimed at attracting skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. Announced on February 10, 2023, by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Azerbaijan, these changes align with the nation’s strategy to expand its immigration framework and stimulate economic growth.
The new visa categories include the Neo Nomad Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, and Permanent Residence Visa, each targeting different groups of skilled workers. The Neo Nomad Visa (B12-1) is geared toward remote workers who have consistent foreign income. It allows for multiple entries and is valid for up to one year. This visa is crafted for those who can work from anywhere, offering them the flexibility and freedom to experience life and work within Kazakhstan.
For those from the IT sector, the Digital Nomad Visa (B9-1) has been introduced. This specific visa caters to much-in-demand IT professionals relocating to Kazakhstan, who are eligible for permanent residence after fulfilling the necessary requirements. Notably, this visa requires applicants to secure support from Astana Hub, or another authorized body within Kazakhstan's burgeoning IT ecosystem, ensuring only qualified candidates are granted access.
Finally, the Permanent Residence Visa (B9) targets skilled individuals working in sectors such as medicine, science, innovation, education, and the creative industries. This visa allows professionals to settle long-term in Kazakhstan, providing them the stability to thrive and contribute positively to the local economy.
Interestingly, individuals wishing to travel to Kazakhstan will still need to obtain visas at one of the country's diplomatic missions, except for citizens from nations exempt from visa requirements. This stipulation emphasizes the importance of regulated immigration, even as new visa categories are introduced.
Beyond these immediate changes, Kazakhstan is actively pursuing visa-free regimes with several countries, including San Marino, North Macedonia, the Seychelles, Oman, and Cuba. The nation is deeply invested in negotiating agreements with 26 additional countries, such as Austria, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, to ease movement and attract foreign talent.
This strategic direction is not new. For example, during the recent visit of Kazakhstan's President to Vietnam on August 21, 2023, the two nations signed a visa-free regime, marking significant progress toward fostering international cooperation and mobility.
Overall, these developments reflect Kazakhstan's commitment to positioning itself as a regional hub for innovation and skilled labor. By introducing these new visa categories and negotiating broader agreements, Kazakhstan is setting the stage not just for economic engagement but also for cultural exchange and international collaboration.
The introduction of these visa schemes highlights Kazakhstan's dedication to attracting global talent and fueling its economic development. The nation aims to create favorable conditions for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, enhancing its reputation as an inviting destination for digital nomads and innovators alike. With these initiatives, Kazakhstan hopes to nourish its diverse economy and bolster its status on the international stage.