Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Moving to Kazakhstan, this Central Asian giant wedged between Russia, China, and the Caspian Sea, is no longer a risky adventure reserved for a few daring souls. Peace indicators, crime statistics, and expatriate feedback all point in the same direction: the country is generally safe, especially in its major cities. But a smooth expatriation doesn’t happen by chance. Between cultural specificities, risks of petty crime, extreme climate, strict legal framework, and cybersecurity challenges, it’s better to arrive informed to avoid unpleasant surprises.
This article provides a concrete guide to assessing risks and adopting best practices, enabling you to live and work there with peace of mind, avoiding both paranoia and naivety.
A generally safe country, but not without risks
Kazakhstan presents a rather reassuring security profile for a country of its size. In the Global Peace Index, it ranks 56th out of 163 states, better than most of its Central Asian neighbors and even better than some Western countries classified under “enhanced vigilance” in travel advisories.
Governments recommend taking “normal security precautions” there, the lowest risk level. Major cities like Almaty and Astana are assessed as low-threat areas for Western interests in terms of crime.
Canadian and U.S. governments
Official statistics confirm the trend: recorded crime is declining, with an approximately 11% drop in reported offenses, followed by a further reduction of around 5%. At the same time, the state has heavily invested in video surveillance, with over 1.3 million cameras installed across the country.
Despite general safety, certain oil regions (Mangystau, Atyrau) are experiencing a rise in crime, petty theft is active in tourist areas, and police corruption remains a problem on the roads and at some airports. For an expatriate, the key is to accurately identify the risks and know how to manage them.
How residents perceive safety
Opinion polls show a nuanced perception: Kazakhstani citizens report being generally more aware of security issues, particularly digital, with the cybersecurity awareness rate rising from about 63% in 2018 to over 80% in 2023. On the street, the feeling of safety is high during the day, more mixed at night, which aligns with the basic recommendations given to foreigners: enjoy the country, but avoid certain imprudent behaviors.
Crime and scams: what to really watch out for
Violent crime against foreigners remains rare, especially when comparing Kazakhstan to major European or American cities. On the other hand, petty crime and scams targeting tourists and expatriates are indeed present, especially in urban centers.
Theft and assaults: typical scenarios
In Almaty, Astana, or Atyrau, the scene is classic: pickpockets in markets and crowded buses, bag thefts in parks and shopping malls, break-ins at expatriate homes, assaults when leaving bars or nightclubs, often late at night. Trains and intercity buses are not spared: luggage thefts have been reported in compartments and luggage holds.
The most affected areas are highly frequented places: public transport, open-air bazaars, tourist attractions, restaurants, and nightclubs. Some disadvantaged neighborhoods in large cities, like the Shanyrak area in Almaty, are best avoided by foreign residents, especially at night.
The risk profile in Abidjan is comparable to that of a major mid-sized international city. To live without major incidents, it is advisable to remain vigilant, limit outward signs of wealth, and carefully choose your housing and routes.
Scams that specifically target foreigners
Kazakhstani scammers are not lacking in imagination, especially when dealing with foreigners assumed to be unfamiliar with local customs. Several schemes are common.
Unofficial taxis that charge exorbitant rates outside airports or train stations, sometimes claiming the meter is broken or that the “night rate” is very high, are among the classics. Unscrupulous drivers may take a longer route or invent an extra charge, especially if the customer doesn’t know the city.
In unauthorized exchange bureaus, it happens that the displayed rates don’t match the amount actually given, that hidden commissions are added, or that counterfeit or damaged bills are slipped into the stack. The official system is reliable, however: licensed bureaus, especially well-known ones, apply clear rates and require a passport.
Around tourist sites, individuals offer unofficial tours at exorbitant prices, with no guarantees. They also invent false taxes, like a “photo tax,” to extort money from visitors, sometimes demanding several thousand tenge (the local currency).
In bars and nightclubs, the warning is more serious: cases of spiked drinks, followed by violent thefts or sexual assaults, have been reported, particularly in Almaty and Atyrau. The scenario is known worldwide, but it also applies to Kazakhstan.
At the airport, especially in some provincial terminals, a common ploy involves displaying the traveler’s name on a welcome sign. The fake driver presents himself as sent by the hotel or a company, gains the newcomer’s trust, and takes them to an isolated spot to rob them. At customs checks, some accounts mention improvised “fines” for alleged irregularities, which can amount to several hundred dollars.
How to protect yourself in practice
Effective precautions are simple to adopt in daily life. It is recommended to keep your passport and important documents in a safe place (hotel safe or discreet hiding spot at home) and carry copies. Bags should be worn closed, ideally crossbody in front, and valuables (watches, flashy jewelry, large cameras) taken out only when necessary.
Recommendations for traveling safely, from public transport to taxis, minimizing the risk of theft or scams.
Keep your bag on your lap rather than in overhead racks or under the seat, and always lock compartments on trains.
Prefer local ride-hailing apps (like Yandex Go or InDriver), which are much safer than hitchhiking or informal taxis.
Use the official taxi line or a car booked in advance via an app for a secure option.
When dealing with real or supposed police officers, a useful reflex is to calmly ask to see the official badge and, in case of a suspicious request for money, to suggest going together to the nearest police station. Legitimate officers generally agree without difficulty. Regarding alcohol, speeding, or parking issues, it’s best to know the official fines in advance: this reduces the room for informal negotiation.
Transport and driving: a real safety issue
For many expatriates, the most concrete danger in Kazakhstan is less on the street than on the road. The country has a road network tens of thousands of kilometers long, much of it paved, but the condition of the roads and driver behavior are far from Northern European standards.
Local driving: what to expect to see
Accounts converge: Kazakhstani driving is often agitated, even aggressive. Reckless overtaking, lane changes without signaling, speeding on secondary roads, ignoring pedestrian crossings and traffic lights are frequent. Some drivers don’t hesitate to drive against traffic for a few hundred meters to save time, even in urban areas.
In the city, massive traffic jams during rush hour sometimes lead to “every man for himself” behavior. Outside, long straight roads and light traffic encourage speeding, even though potholes, stray animals, lack of lighting, and snow can turn the road into a trap.
The legal blood alcohol limit for driving is zero, exposing offenders to heavy penalties for the first offense.
Road conditions, distances, and weather: a trio not to be underestimated
On the main arteries connecting major cities, like between Astana and Kokshetau or Almaty and Shymkent, the road surfaces are generally decent and often equipped with speed cameras. But as soon as you move away from these corridors, the situation deteriorates rapidly: faded road markings, rare signs, deep potholes, unmarked roadworks.
The distance between two gas stations can be hundreds of kilometers, particularly in desert regions. It is therefore advised to start with a full tank, a water supply, food, warm clothes, a spare tire in good condition, and if possible, a charged phone with a power bank. In winter, risks multiply: blizzards, black ice, snowdrifts, closed roads. In some rural areas, driving at night is clearly not recommended.
Taxi, bus, trains: what choices for an expatriate?
In major cities, urban buses are numerous, cheap, but often crowded. They are a prime playground for pickpockets. Private minibuses, or “marshrutkas,” which serve many villages, sometimes drive at high speeds in old vehicles, without seatbelts or proper maintenance. For long distances, they are best avoided.
Trains, on the other hand, remain a relatively safe and popular way to cross the country. Compartments should simply be locked, and valuables kept within sight, especially at night.
The best compromise for an expatriate in the city remains ride-hailing via apps (Yandex Go, among others) or clearly identified taxi companies. The cars are generally newer, the trips geolocated, and the price fixed in advance.
Licenses and insurance: the legal framework
To drive legally in Kazakhstan, foreign nationals must have their national driver’s license accompanied by an international driving permit. Beyond a certain length of stay, conversion to a local license may be required, after passing theoretical and practical tests.
Liability insurance is mandatory for all vehicles. Local companies offer contracts for residents, while visiting expatriates often rely on coverage included in rental contracts or their international insurance. Before taking possession of a car, checking the validity of the insurance contract, the presence of the green card (or equivalent), and the general condition of the vehicle is essential.
Health and the medical system: anticipate to avoid bad surprises
The Kazakhstani healthcare system, a legacy of the Soviet model, is undergoing reform. Major cities have modern hospitals, sometimes certified to international standards, and well-equipped private clinics. But as soon as you go into the countryside, quality drops: outdated equipment, medication shortages, lack of doctors and nurses.
Public, private, insurance: three pillars to know
The majority of hospitals are state-owned, with a very variable level of care depending on the region. The country has implemented a compulsory social health insurance system (CSHI) funded by contributions from employers, employees, the state, and self-employed workers. A large part of the population is covered, but waiting lines, bureaucracy, and coverage limits push many residents towards the private sector.
For expatriates, international health insurance covering care in Kazakhstan and including an option for medical evacuation to a better-equipped neighboring country or home country is essential. Major international insurers generally cover private hospitals in Nur-Sultan and Almaty, as well as some corporate clinics in Atyrau or Aktau.
Medical level and language: what to anticipate
In the best private institutions in major cities, you can find doctors trained abroad, specialists in cardiology, oncology, surgery, and a decent technical setup. In the public sector, doctors are numerous but not always French-speaking or English-speaking, and equipment can be outdated.
Expatriates are well-advised to identify upon arrival the reference hospital or clinic closest to their home and workplace, as well as emergency service numbers. The national number for ambulances is 103, with 112 being the general emergency number. In practice, operators mainly speak Russian and Kazakh: having a trusted bilingual person, or at least key phrases translated on your phone, greatly facilitates communication.
Water, food, diseases: daily hygiene
Tap water is not consistent across the country. In Almaty, it is often described as “drinkable,” sourced from the mountains and treated. But the precautionary use of bottled mineral water or a certified filter is still recommended, especially for children or vulnerable individuals. In other cities, it’s better to systematically consider tap water as non-potable.
To avoid food poisoning, favor reputable restaurants, be wary of dubious street stalls, and avoid undercooked meats, unpasteurized dairy products, and unpeeled fruits in areas with uncertain hygiene.
Certain diseases require particular vigilance. Ticks can transmit infections, especially in rural and forest areas in spring and summer. The air in major cities, especially in winter due to coal heating, sometimes reaches pollution levels that worsen respiratory conditions. The WHO already ranked the country modestly in terms of overall health performance a few years ago.
Vaccines and medications: a check-up before departure
Before an expatriation, doctors recommend checking the update of basic vaccines (diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles, hepatitis A and B, typhoid) and, depending on lifestyle habits (hiking in the mountains, long rural stays, contact with animals), considering additional vaccines like rabies or tick-borne encephalitis.
Some common medications in Europe can be hard to find or subject to strict prescription in Kazakhstan. It is advisable to bring a personal supply in their original packaging, accompanied by a prescription and ideally a translation into Russian or Kazakh. Particular attention is required for controlled substances (strong painkillers, psychotropic drugs, ADHD treatments) which must strictly comply with local regulations to avoid serious customs problems.
Key figures on the healthcare system
To measure the level of development of the system, it is useful to look at some indicators.
| Indicator | Indicative Value |
|---|---|
| Life expectancy at birth | ≈ 74 years |
| Health expenditure per capita (2021) | ≈ 1,100 USD |
| Share of public spending in health | ≈ 65% |
| Maternal mortality rate (per 100,000) | ≈ 10 |
| Infant mortality rate (per 1,000) | ≈ 8 |
| Recorded public hospitals | > 500 |
| Recorded private hospitals | > 300 |
These figures place Kazakhstan in the upper average of middle-income countries, but well below North American or Northern European standards.
Climate, natural disasters, and environment: a context to take seriously
Kazakhstan is known for its extreme continental climate: scorching summers, freezing winters, strong winds, and sometimes brutal precipitation. These conditions directly impact daily safety and the resilience of infrastructure.
Extreme winters, scorching summers
In the north and east, winter temperatures can drop well below –30 °C, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Conversely, in the south and west, thermometers easily climb to 40 °C in summer. These variations require a complete adaptation of lifestyle: technical clothing, adapted vehicles, well-insulated buildings.
To prevent concrete risks of frostbite, hypothermia, or heatstroke, adopt these guidelines: in winter, never go far without appropriate clothing and a water supply; avoid night road travel during snowstorms; and reduce outdoor activities during heat waves and high air pollution.
Earthquakes, floods, fires: which areas are most exposed?
The country is exposed to several types of natural disasters. The mountains around Almaty and the southeast are in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes are recorded regularly there, sometimes felt in the city. Added to this are associated risks: landslides, spring avalanches, rockfalls on mountain roads.
Floods mainly affect the north and west, particularly during snowmelt or after episodes of heavy rain. The major event in spring 2024 thus displaced over 200,000 people and caused damages of several hundred million dollars, revealing the fragility of dikes, dams, and canals inherited from the Soviet era.
Thousands of hectares of forest and steppe go up in smoke each year during summer fires.
In major cities like Almaty and Astana, winter air pollution constitutes a more diffuse but not negligible threat: coal combustion, thermal inversion, and particular topography lead to smog episodes, sometimes visible to the naked eye.
To summarize the main environmental risks:
| Natural Hazard | Overall Exposure Level | Most Affected Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Earthquakes | High | South and southeast (Almaty, Shymkent, mountains) |
| Floods | High | North and west (steppe regions, major rivers) |
| Fires (forest/steppe) | High | Center, east, steppe areas |
| Extreme cold | High | North, Astana, central regions |
| Extreme heat | Medium to High | South and west |
| Landslides | Medium | Mountainous areas in the southeast |
Kazakhstani authorities are aware of these vulnerabilities. The Ministry of Emergency Situations coordinates prevention and response, with support from international organizations and NGOs like the local Red Cross. Projects supported by the UN or the European Union aim to modernize warning systems, emergency reserves, and disaster data collection.
For the expatriate, the best protection remains simple preparation: know the local instructions, identify rallying points in case of earthquake or flood, assemble an “emergency kit” with water, food, important documents, a flashlight, batteries, and medications, and follow alerts issued by the authorities.
Political framework, demonstrations, and terrorism: a controlled environment
Politically, Kazakhstan remains a highly centralized regime, where the executive power and security forces play a major role. Elections do not yet meet international standards of pluralism, and authorities rarely tolerate spontaneous demonstrations.
Demonstrations and riots: the 2022 episode as a warning sign
For a long time, public protests were rare and quickly dispersed. But in January 2022, a flare-up of anger linked to rising liquefied gas prices escalated into violent riots, especially in Almaty, with public buildings set on fire, armed clashes, and several hundred deaths. This episode shocked the country and reminded everyone that social crises can, momentarily, blow the lid off the established order.
Since the return to a stable situation, authorities maintain heightened vigilance over political gatherings. Any demonstration must be authorized in advance, and participants in unapproved gatherings face rapid arrest. Expatriates, although rarely targeted, must absolutely stay away from these events, even if they seem peaceful.
Terrorist threat: low frequency, necessary caution
The terrorist threat in Kazakhstan is assessed as moderate. The country experienced a few attacks in the 2010s, and authorities regularly announce the arrest of radicalized groups or the foiling of attack plans, notably against religious sites or public places. However, no major attack has been recorded recently, and security services seem to have reduced the operational capacity of certain networks.
Official buildings, airports, shopping malls, places of worship, as well as restaurants or hotels frequented by foreigners are potential targets. Expatriates are advised to remain attentive to instructions from local authorities, avoid large gatherings on symbolic dates, and immediately report any suspicious behavior or object.
Law, police, corruption: what an expatriate must know
The Kazakhstani legal framework provides for equal treatment between citizens and foreigners for many rights, but also strict obligations regarding residence, registration, and respect for public order.
Residence, registration, identity checks
Many foreign nationals benefit from visa-free entry for stays of 30 days, renewable within a limit of 180 days. To work or settle long-term, a residence permit or work visa is mandatory, often tied to a local employer.
Authorities can request proof of identity at any time. It is therefore necessary to carry your original passport, although many expatriates keep the original at home and carry a laminated copy to limit the risk of loss or abusive confiscation. If stopped, lack of documentation can lead to being taken to a police station for verification.
Criminal legislation: drugs, alcohol, morals
Kazakhstan applies very strict laws regarding narcotics. Simple possession of small quantities of drugs, including cannabis, can lead to heavy prison sentences. The country being on transit routes between Afghanistan and Russia, authorities seek to send signals of firmness.
Alcohol is not prohibited, but its consumption in public is strictly regulated. Drinking in the street, being drunk in public, or disturbing public order while intoxicated can result in a fine or detention. Furthermore, alcohol sales hours, especially at night, are limited.
Regarding morals, the country is officially secular but socially conservative. Overt public displays of affection, public criticism of religions or the national flag, or sharing content perceived as offensive on social media can lead to prosecution.
Same-sex relationships are legal, but a law prohibits the “promotion of non-traditional sexual orientation.” In practice, this creates a climate of imposed discretion, with risks of harassment and possible sanctions for public expressions considered activist.
Corruption and relations with the police
Corruption remains a structural problem, particularly within the police and certain administrations. Motorists, especially foreigners, report being stopped several times a day for minor pretexts, with the officer hinting that an “arrangement” on the spot is possible.
In this context, several reflexes reduce the risks: stay calm and polite, ask for the exact reason for the stop, ask to see the badge, refuse to hand over your original passport (present a copy instead), and propose to settle any fine at the station, with an official receipt. Dashcams are very popular among local drivers precisely to document this type of abuse.
Large companies and embassies often have legal services capable of intervening or advising their nationals. In case of serious problems, quickly contacting your diplomatic representation is strongly advised.
Safety isn’t just about laws and crime statistics. In a country like Kazakhstan, social norms, implicit expectations, and the relationship with foreigners also play a key role in an expatriate’s quality of life.
Hospitality and cultural caution
Kazakhstan is a multi-ethnic society where Kazakhs, Russians, and many minorities coexist. Hospitality is deeply rooted, especially in rural areas. Being invited for tea or to share a meal is a sign of respect; a blunt refusal can be poorly received. Shoes are removed when entering someone’s home, you accept at least a little of what is offered, and avoid any criticism of traditions or religion.
Certain Western attitudes (public hugging, revealing clothing, jokes about politics) and certain topics (inter-ethnic relations, war in Ukraine, Islam, former elite) should be avoided or approached with extreme caution.
Women, families, minorities: what safety issues?
Women traveling or living alone in Kazakhstan mostly report positive experiences: street harassment exists but remains less aggressive than in some other countries, serious assaults are rare. However, in bars and clubs, male behavior can be more insistent, especially towards women perceived as Western. Relatively modest attire and a firm but polite attitude are generally enough to discourage the most heavy-handed advances.
In Kazakhstan, children hold a central place in the culture, which translates into a benevolent attitude and spontaneous help for parents in public spaces. However, health precautions regarding water, vaccines, and pollution remain entirely the responsibility of parents.
Visible minorities, such as Black people or those from origins less present in the country, attract curious, sometimes persistent looks, but without overt hostility according to recent accounts. The main difficulty lies more in the language barrier than insecurity.
Building a network, a major safety factor
Expatriate experience confirms it: building a strong local network – colleagues, neighbors, fellow parents, members of the foreign community – is one of the best shields against the unexpected. A colleague can recommend a doctor, a fellow parent an honest plumber, a neighbor can point out neighborhoods to avoid in the evening.
Online groups dedicated to expatriates in Kazakhstan or Almaty, francophone or international associations, and professional networks all serve as useful relays for information, especially on safety issues, scams, or administrative procedures.
Cybersecurity and data protection: an often underestimated aspect
Alongside physical challenges, the expatriate in Kazakhstan must deal with a particular digital environment. The country has developed an advanced legal framework in cybersecurity, with bodies dedicated to personal data protection and incident response centers. The level of preparedness is improving: Kazakhstan has significantly improved its score in global cybersecurity indices.
Surveillance and security certificates: a context to know
Kazakhstani authorities have previously attempted to impose the installation of national security certificates on internet users to intercept encrypted traffic. Even if these measures have fluctuated, they show that the state wishes to maintain a significant surveillance capacity over communications.
For expatriates handling sensitive information (corporate data or personal communications), it is strongly recommended to use a reliable VPN, configured before arrival in the country. Prefer servers located outside Kazakhstan and avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi networks for banking operations or access to critical services.
Scams and cyberattacks
As elsewhere, phishing, fake booking sites, romance scams, or ransomware attempts exist. Studies conducted among the population show that nearly a quarter of respondents have encountered computer viruses, and a significant portion have faced online fraud attempts.
Best practices in cybersecurity are universal: use long, unique passwords, activate two-factor authentication, always check web addresses, perform regular backups, and keep your antivirus updated. Expatriates working for foreign companies may benefit from specific training or tools from their employer. Otherwise, it is advisable to inquire about educational resources offered by local cybersecurity authorities.
Conclusion: a serene expatriation, provided you are prepared
Safety in Kazakhstan, for an expatriate, resembles a balance: the country is objectively safer than some clichés or satirical films might suggest, but it has its own areas requiring vigilance. Violent crime remains contained, major cities offer a dynamic and relatively peaceful urban environment, and the population, often curious and warm, facilitates integration.
The main dangers concern road safety, extreme weather conditions (harsh winters and scorching summers), and common petty scams. The rigidity of some laws and intrusive cyber surveillance also require vigilance. It is crucial to obtain medical insurance and anticipate your health needs, as the local system has structural limitations.
By getting informed beforehand, adapting a few reflexes (mobility, housing, health, digital), and building a trusted local network, it is entirely possible to live in Kazakhstan with great peace of mind. The key is not to dramatize the risks, but to understand them enough to naturally integrate them into your daily life. This is the price to fully enjoy the cultural richness, spectacular landscapes, and professional opportunities offered by this still largely unknown country.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
