Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
From vast steppes to snow-capped mountains, encountering over 130 ethnicities, living in Central Asia’s largest economy… moving to Kazakhstan is anything but ordinary. For many expatriates, the country remains terra incognita: people vaguely know about its oil, sometimes Astana and Almaty, but rarely the day-to-day reality, the procedures, the costs, or the social codes.
This guide synthesizes recent research for realistic preparation of your project. It covers essential procedures (visa, work, housing), practical aspects (budget, health, safety), and life on the ground (social life, schooling, taxation), providing precise figures and a balanced view of the advantages and difficulties.
Understanding the Country You’re Moving To
Kazakhstan is the world’s ninth-largest country by area, approximately 2.7 million km², and the largest landlocked state. It stretches between Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, making it a strategic bridge between Europe and Asia. Its population is around 20.6 to 20.9 million, with an impressive mix of over 130 ethnic groups.
Kazakhs represent just over 63% of the country’s total population.
The economy still relies heavily on hydrocarbons and mineral resources, but the country is engaged in a diversification strategy (programs like “Business Road Map 2025” or “100 Steps”) and positions itself as Central Asia’s economic engine. GDP per capita is around $11,850 to $14,000 USD, with a purchasing power parity close to $40,800 USD.
Astana, Almaty, and Other Key Cities
Astana is the political capital, known for its futuristic architecture, its wide avenues swept by icy winds in winter, and its government institutions. It is also a financial hub thanks to the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).
The former capital, Almaty, remains the country’s main metropolis, located at the foot of the Zailiysky Alatau mountains. It concentrates a large part of the expatriate community, international schools, as well as a significant number of restaurants, cafes, and cultural events.
Other cities are significant for an expatriation project, especially if working in certain sectors:
| City | Features for Expatriates |
|---|---|
| Astana | Capital, AIFC, institutions, modern architecture, extremely harsh winter |
| Almaty | Economic/cultural center, mountain views, nightlife, many intl. schools |
| Atyrau | Oil & gas hub in the west, high salaries in oil & gas |
| Aktobe/Aktau | Western cities linked to hydrocarbons, many expatriate assignments |
| Shymkent | Major southern center, milder winters, English less common |
| Karaganda | Industrial and educational region, even lower cost of living |
| Petropavl | Very cold north, more Russian-speaking context |
An Extreme Climate Not to Be Underestimated
The climate is extremely continental. Summers can climb to 40°C, while winters reach -40°C, particularly in Astana, considered the world’s second coldest capital after Ulaanbaatar. In Almaty, the range is a bit milder: from -20°C in winter to about 30°C in summer.
Concretely, this means an expatriation project must include technical clothing for the cold, a suitable car if driving, and real vigilance for winter travel, especially outside major cities.
Visas, New Schemes for Expatriates and Digital Nomads
Kazakhstan has profoundly modernized its visa framework in recent years to attract investors, experts, and remote workers, while retaining a strong bureaucracy.
Short-Stay Visa: Many Countries Exempt
Over 80 countries benefit from visa exemption for short stays, including EU member states, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, or the United Arab Emirates. Depending on nationality, visa-free entry is generally between 15 and 30 days (often up to 30 days, with a total of 90 days within 180).
For very short business trips, a simple invitation and an e-tourist or business visa (B1, B2, B3, B12) may suffice.
Working On-Site: Work Visas and Permits
To engage in salaried employment in Kazakhstan, the classic process remains: first, a work permit obtained by a local employer (or a registered entity in the country) from the Ministry of Labor, and then a work visa issued by a Kazakh consulate (category C3 or M1 depending on classification).
– a local employer (or an entity registered in the country) who obtains a work permit from the Ministry of Labor,
– then a work visa issued by a Kazakh consulate (category C3 or M1 depending on classification).
The employer must first prove the impossibility of filling the position locally and respect quotas. Obtaining the work permit takes 2 to 6 weeks, followed by the visa application. Upon arrival, registration with the migration authorities is mandatory within 3 to 5 working days, and then must be renewed every 90 days.
The main categories of work visas and related visas include:
| Category | Main Purpose |
|---|---|
| C3 / M1 | Standard work visa linked to a work permit |
| M2 | Visa for family members of an M1 holder |
| M3 | Travel to finalize work permit formalities on-site |
| C4 | Self-employment / freelance under conditions |
| C5 / M4 | Business immigrants, entrepreneurs creating or joining a company |
| M5 | Seasonal workers |
| C2 | Family reunification (no automatic right to work) |
Obtaining permanent residency is still described as extremely difficult, even for highly qualified profiles. Most expatriates therefore remain on renewable statuses (work visas, temporary residence, or new schemes for nomads).
New “Premium” Visas: Golden Visa and Neo Nomad
For international profiles, several recent tools change the game.
– Golden Visa
Launched in 2025, it targets investors capable of committing at least $300,000 USD in the country. In exchange, it offers a 10-year residence permit and tax benefits on foreign-source income. This scheme clearly targets entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals.
– Neo Nomad Visa (B12-1)
This 12-month renewable visa targets remote workers earning their income from abroad. It is for those who wish to live in Kazakhstan without being locally employed there. It allows bringing one’s family, provided sufficient income and valid health insurance are proven.
This specific visa is intended for Information Technology (IT) professionals. It requires sponsorship by an accredited entity, such as Astana Hub, a state-supported tech park. It generally offers a package of benefits, including favorable tax conditions, support, and easier integration within a startup-focused ecosystem.
– Targeted Permanent Residence Visa B9
Designed for high-value-added professionals (doctors, scientists, teachers), it opens the door to long-term stay in fields considered critical for the country.
In all cases, be prepared to provide: legalized diplomas, proof of experience, medical certificate, health insurance, apostilled criminal record extract, translations into Russian or Kazakh, and sometimes biometric tests (fingerprints).
Registration, Checks, and Practical Rules
Once arrived, certain principles are non-negotiable:
– Migration registration within days of arrival (often done by the hotel or host via the eQonaq platform, but final responsibility rests with the visitor and their host).
– Renewal of this registration after each exit from the territory and generally every 90 days.
– Carrying ID at all times: passport or notarized copy, and visa or migration card, must be presentable at any time. Police conduct frequent identity checks, sometimes without apparent reason.
Non-compliance with migration rules can lead to fines, deportation, and entry bans of up to five years.
Finding a Job or Professional Project
Kazakhstan remains first and foremost a professional destination. The country seeks skills, but in a regulated market protective of local employment.
Promising Sectors for Expatriates
The sectors most in need of foreign profiles are clearly identified:
| Sector | Typical Opportunities for Expatriates |
|---|---|
| Oil & Gas / Energy | Engineers, project managers, HSE specialists, drilling experts |
| IT & Digital | Developers, data, cybersecurity, product managers, project managers |
| Finance & Financial Services | Analysts, risk managers, compliance, AIFC functions |
| Construction & Engineering | Civil engineers, site managers, infrastructure experts |
| Education (EFL, IB, etc.) | English teachers, teachers in international schools |
| Health & Sciences | Doctors, specialists, researchers, hospital trainers |
| Mining & Metallurgy | Geologists, extraction engineers, environment, safety |
High salaries are notably found in the oil regions (Atyrau, western part of the country). The national average is around 448,620 KZT per month (approximately $870 USD) according to 2025 data, but qualified expatriates, especially under international contracts, can be well above that.
Work Culture and Market Reality
The Kazakh professional environment is often described as a mix of Western corporate culture and practices inherited from the Soviet era: marked hierarchy, weight of personal relationships, importance of group loyalty.
Professional relationships are often built over the long term, including during shared meals. Communication is less direct than in Anglo-Saxon countries: an outright refusal is rare, and a delay or postponement may be announced in a softened manner, for example with a phrase like ‘It might be a bit tight for the planned date.’ An expatriate manager must learn to interpret these nuances and invest time in these informal exchanges to properly understand unspoken expectations and positions.
Taxation on Employment Income
Regarding taxation, Kazakhstan has chosen simplicity: a flat income tax rate of 10% applies to salary income, for residents and non-residents alike, as long as it is Kazakh-source income. This places the country among jurisdictions with relatively low personal taxation.
The employer is responsible for withholding the income tax directly from the employee’s salary (pay-as-you-earn). They must then remit it to the state, along with the due social contributions.
– 10% pension contribution (for Kazakhs, permanent residents, and nationals of the Eurasian Economic Union),
– approximately 5% social insurance contribution,
– 3% employer contribution to the mandatory health insurance system, plus 2% deducted from the employee,
– 11% “social tax” borne exclusively by the employer.
For an expatriate without permanent residence, certain contributions (notably pension) may not apply, but it is imperative to clarify this point in the employment contract, especially if planning to leave.
Cost of Living and Realistic Budget
Kazakhstan stands out for a cost of living much lower than that of many Western countries. According to several indices, the level of expenditure is approximately 57% lower than in the United States (excluding rent) and overall prices are 1.77 times lower than the global average.
Monthly Budget, by Profile
Estimates from various sources give a useful order of magnitude for building a relocation budget.
| Profile | Estimated Monthly Cost (KZT) | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Single person (local) | ~831,788 | ~644 to 741 |
| Average expatriate | — | ~1,141 |
| Digital nomad | — | ~1,584 |
| Family of 4 | ~1,525,192 | ~1,549 |
These amounts typically include housing, but variations are very strong depending on the city, standard, and lifestyle (outings, international schools, travel, etc.).
Rent and Real Estate
Rent is the main adjustment variable. In Almaty and Astana, modern apartments in central neighborhoods remain affordable compared to Europe, but significantly more expensive than the rest of the country.
| Type of Housing (average city) | Average Monthly Rent (KZT) | Range (KZT) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom city center | ~236,549 | 150,000 – 400,000 |
| 1-bedroom outside center | ~161,562 | 100,000 – 250,000 |
| 3-bedroom city center | ~442,619 | 250,000 – 750,000 |
| 3-bedroom outside center | ~301,034 | 195,000 – 471,827 |
| 85 m² furnished, upscale area (Almaty/Astana) | ~721,538 | — |
| 85 m² furnished, “standard” area | ~475,626 | — |
| 45 m² studio furnished, upscale area | ~260,743 | — |
Converted to dollars, a good furnished one-bedroom apartment in the center can range from $350 to $700 USD. However, note that rents in new high-end complexes or near international schools can rival some major European cities.
Property purchase is also relatively affordable:
| Indicator | Average Price (KZT) | Average Price (USD approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| per m² city center | ~61,372 KZT / ft² | ~$1,092 USD / m² |
| per m² outside center | ~41,528 KZT / ft² | ~$785 USD / m² |
| Median house price | — | ~$118,051 USD |
However, access to property remains complex for non-residents and requires serious local legal advice.
Daily Life: Food, Transport, Entertainment
Local goods and services are cheap, while imported items (electronics, brand-name clothing, Western food products) are significantly more expensive.
Some price benchmarks in the city:
| Expense Item | Average Price (KZT) | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Inexpensive restaurant meal | ~4,500 | 2,500 – 7,000 |
| “Business” lunch menu | ~4,404 | |
| Meal for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | ~17,000 | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Local draft beer (bar) | ~600 | 400 – 1,200 |
| Cappuccino (cafe) | ~1,083 | |
| Bus / Metro ticket | ~110 | often around 80–110 KZT |
| Monthly transport pass | ~9,000 | 7,000 – 10,000 |
| Gasoline (liter) | ~213 | very affordable fuel |
| Unlimited Internet (≥60 Mbps) | ~6,952 | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Utilities 85 m² (heating, water, etc.) | ~23,000 – 30,000 | relatively cheap |
| Mobile plan with 10GB+ | ~4,700 | extremely cheap mobile data |
At the supermarket, the basic basket remains advantageous:
| Product | Average Price (KZT/kg or unit) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Bread (0.5 kg) | ~372 | ~$0.41 |
| Rice (1 kg) | — | ~$1.17 |
| Eggs (12) | ~827 | ~$1.44 |
| Chicken (1 kg) | — | ~$4.11 |
| Beef (1 kg) | — | ~$6.78 |
| Apples (1 kg) | ~585 | ~$1.18 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | ~340 | ~$0.56 |
| Water bottle (1.5 L) | ~387 | ~$0.47 / L |
In contrast, international schools represent a major cost for families: between $5,000 and $30,000 USD per year per child, with many institutions between $15,000 and $25,000 USD.
Housing: Where and How to Find a Place
Expatriates almost all rent, at least for the first few years. The supply ranges from old Soviet-era apartments to ultra-modern new residences, often with security and underground parking.
Neighborhoods Popular with Expatriates
In Almaty, the most sought-after areas include:
– Samal and the surroundings of Dostyk Avenue, near shops, cafes, offices,
– the areas around Al-Farabi Avenue (modern residences, mountain views),
– complexes like Esentai, Sholpan City, or Tau Samal, very “internationalized”.
In Astana, many expatriates are found:
Discover the main residential areas of the Kazakh capital, suitable for different needs and budgets.
Located near iconic buildings like Baiterek and Khan Shatyr, this modern area is at the heart of urban life.
Opt for complexes like Highvill or the area around the AIFC (Astana International Financial Centre) for a contemporary, well-equipped setting.
Explore some neighborhoods on the right bank, older but practical and often cheaper, offering good value for money.
In oil cities (Atyrau, Aktau, Aktobe), many expatriates live in dedicated compounds or complexes for major company staff, often with enhanced security and integrated services.
Rental Procedure and Points of Caution
Most leases are for 12 months, with a security deposit of 1 to 2 months. Some rentals are still managed “off-contract,” but for an expatriate, a written lease is essential, preferably registered or at least notarized.
This section highlights important information or a useful detail the reader should know to properly understand the subject.
– Rents are paid in tenge, sometimes unofficially indexed to the dollar.
– Single-family houses are rare and very expensive in large cities.
– Heating is often centralized: you don’t always control the temperature, but the cost remains moderate. In winter, bills can still climb.
– Some landlords refuse pets or ask for an additional deposit.
Local platforms like Krisha.kz are the reference for finding housing, in addition to agencies and international sites (Booking, Airbnb for temporary stays).
Health, Insurance, and Hospitals
The healthcare system is undergoing reform but does not yet align with the standards of the most developed countries, especially for complex care.
Public System and Mandatory Health Insurance
Since 2020, Kazakhstan has operated under a mandatory health insurance system (MSHI). Funding for health has more than doubled in a few years, reaching over 2.8 trillion KZT in 2024.
Two packages of care coexist:
– the “guaranteed free medical care” (SFMA), funded by the state budget, which covers citizens, permanent residents, refugees, and certain permanent foreigners,
– the MSHI package, funded by contributions (3% employer, 2% employee, with caps), which offers a broader range of services (chronic disease follow-up, rehabilitation, planned care, etc.).
For an expatriate, the situation is subtle:
If you are a permanent resident or a worker covered by specific agreements (like the EAEU), you can be integrated into the public healthcare system. However, if you are a temporary resident, public coverage is limited to life-threatening emergencies and diseases posing a danger to others, such as tuberculosis or certain infections.
In any case, public hospitals still suffer from waiting lists, sometimes obsolete equipment, and a lack of English-speaking staff, especially outside metropolitan areas.
Use of Private Clinics and Medical Evacuation
Most expatriates therefore turn to the private sector, especially in Almaty and Astana, where you can find:
– international hospitals and clinics (International SOS, Almaty International Medical Center, Presidential Medical Center, etc.),
– English-speaking doctors,
– more modern facilities.
But even in these facilities, serious cases are often evacuated abroad (Germany, Turkey, etc.). It is therefore highly recommended to take out international health insurance covering:
– care in the private sector,
– medical evacuation and repatriation,
– if needed, maternity, dental care, or coverage for chronic conditions.
International insurers like Cigna, Allianz, AXA, Now Health, BUPA, or William Russell are well established and often recognized by local clinics, which usually allows for direct billing of care.
Public Health, Risks, and Vaccinations
Overall health is improving, with a life expectancy of about 74.4 years, but several risks remain:
– high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases,
– tuberculosis still frequent (about 70 cases per 100,000 inhabitants),
– natural areas at risk for diseases like plague, anthrax, or Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever,
– peaks of atmospheric pollution in large cities, especially in winter (coal heating).
For an expatriate, it is recommended to check basic vaccinations (DTP, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, possibly rabies for rural activities), to avoid drinking tap water without filtration, to be rigorous about food hygiene, and to have a personal medical kit, as some treatments may not be available or not to usual standards.
Safety, Freedoms, and Sensitive Aspects
Kazakhstan is generally considered safe for expatriates: the safety index reaches 72, the homicide rate is low (2.6 per 100,000 inhabitants), and the country is not ravaged by violent crime.
Everyday Crime
The main risks are:
– theft and pickpocketing in markets, public transport, shopping centers,
– scams (fake police, unofficial taxis charging exorbitant rates, bribery attempts),
– burglaries of expatriate homes, especially when identified as wealthy,
– occasional muggings when leaving bars or clubs at night in Almaty, Astana, or Atyrau.
To reduce risks, use official taxis or apps like Yandex Go and InDriver. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Keep your ID in a safe place, refuse drinks offered by strangers, and, in case of a suspicious check, ask to go directly to the police station.
Political Context, Protests, and Terrorism
The country remains authoritarian: large protests are rare, highly regulated, and episodes of mass protests have sometimes degenerated (as in 2022, with a heavy human toll). Participating in an unauthorized protest risks arrest.
The terrorist threat is considered present but limited, with a recommended level of vigilance for crowded places (shopping malls, official buildings, public events). Authorities tend to increase surveillance during these periods.
Public criticism of authorities or national symbols, as well as expression on sensitive topics, can lead to prosecution. Laws against “propaganda of non-traditional sexual orientation” create a hostile climate, particularly for LGBTQ+ people outside of major cities.
Dress Code and Social Norms
In daily life, especially in metropolitan areas, style can be very modern, even sophisticated, but a certain conservatism remains, particularly in regions or religious contexts. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and clothing deemed too provocative can attract comments.
Kazakhs are known to be very hospitable: invitations to share a meal, tea, or a round of vodka toasts are part of daily life. Completely refusing what is offered can be seen as an insult. Learning to say “no” tactfully, or to moderate one’s participation, becomes an essential cultural skill, especially facing a strong drinking culture.
Transport, Travel, and Driving in Kazakhstan
In such a vast territory, distances are considerable. Domestic air connections (led by Air Astana, with over 50 routes) are often the fastest way to cross the country. The rail network is extensive but slow: for example, about 18 hours for an Almaty–Petropavl “fast” train.
In the city, people rely on:
– a dense network of buses and minibuses (marshrutkas), cheap but sometimes crowded,
– modern but still modest metros in Almaty and Astana,
– widespread ride-hailing apps (Yandex Go, InDriver).
The monthly cost of a public transport pass in Kazakhstan is approximately 8,000 to 9,000 KZT.
Driving in Kazakhstan
It is possible to drive with an International Driving Permit for a limited period (generally between six months and a year depending on the case). To stay longer, you need to obtain a local license, with a theoretical and practical exam in Russian or Kazakh, as well as a medical check-up.
The highway code imposes strict rules on certain specific points, which it is essential to know and respect.
– 0% blood alcohol while driving,
– typical speed limits: 20 km/h in residential zones, 60 km/h in the city, 90 km/h outside built-up areas, 110 km/h on some expressways.
In practice, driver behavior can be disconcerting for a newcomer: risky overtaking, abrupt lane changes, running red lights, pedestrians ignored. Roads outside major arteries can be very degraded, with potholes, lack of markings, stray animals. In winter, snow, ice, and reduced visibility make driving particularly dangerous.
Social Integration, Culture, and Daily Life
Beyond the numbers, the success of an expatriation depends on integration into the local social fabric.
Language Barrier: The Real Challenge
Two languages dominate:
– Kazakh, the official state language,
– Russian, the “language of interethnic communication,” omnipresent in business and daily life.
Both use the Cyrillic alphabet, and English remains a minority language: only about 15% of the population speaks it, concentrated in large cities and internationalized circles. For an expatriate who doesn’t speak Russian or Kazakh, daily life (administration, shopping outside supermarkets, technical interlocutors) can quickly become exhausting.
Investing time in learning a few basic phrases in Russian and Kazakh is both very useful and highly appreciated. It facilitates interactions and creates a climate of mutual respect.
Social Life, Expat Clubs, and Activities
Major cities have well-organized expatriate communities, with:
Discover the main clubs, online platforms, and events to meet other expatriates and integrate into local life.
A social club open to all, organizing activities and offering support to facilitate the integration of newcomers.
An association aiming to build bridges between international and local communities through various cultural and social activities.
Join dedicated groups on Facebook, Telegram, and InterNations to exchange tips and organize meetups.
Attend networking evenings, language meetups, and sports groups to expand your social circle.
Outdoor activities are a major asset: hiking in the mountains around Almaty, skiing in Shymbulak, trips to national parks, Sharyn Canyon, mountain lakes, etc. Major festivals mark the year: Nauryz (spring new year), cultural festivals like the World Nomad Games, or music events (Almaty Jazz Festival).
However, outside Almaty and to a lesser extent Astana, nightlife and cultural life are significantly more limited, which can accentuate a feeling of isolation, especially in winter.
Culture Shock and Adaptation
As often, relocation follows a classic cycle: euphoria of the first months (discovery, exoticism, hospitality), then a phase of “negotiation” with reality (bureaucracy, language barrier, extreme climate, more conservative social norms), before reaching a form of compromise and adjustment.
Several aspects regularly surprise newcomers:
– the central place of elders and hierarchies,
– a more flexible approach to time, especially in the social sphere,
– the importance of table rituals, with a codified art of toasting and sharing,
– the mix of modernity (apps, online services, fintech) and administrative practices still very bureaucratic.
Being aware of these dynamics, arming oneself with patience, and benefiting from a support network (colleagues, associations, other expatriates) are decisive factors for a successful expatriation.
Children’s Education: A Key Factor
For families, school choice is often the number one element of the relocation project. Kazakhstan has developed a dense offering of international schools, notably in Almaty and Astana, but also in some western cities (Atyrau).
Local System vs. International Schools
Public education is free for citizens and residents, structured into:
– 4 years of primary,
– 5 years of lower secondary,
– then upper secondary (general or vocational).
Instruction is mainly in Kazakh or Russian, with little or no English as the language of instruction. For an expatriate child arriving without these languages, integration can be very difficult, even impossible in the short term, except in special cases.
Hence the massive recourse to international schools, which:
These institutions teach mainly in English (sometimes with sections in French or other languages), follow recognized curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British IGCSE/A-levels, or the American system (SAT, AP), host a mixed population (expatriate children and local elite), and offer modern facilities (labs, gyms, art, music).
There are at least 45 international schools in the country, 13 of which are “IB World Schools,” and some offer all three IB programs (PYP, MYP, DP), for example:
– International School of Nur-Sultan,
– Kazakhstan International School,
– Miras International School Almaty,
– Miras International School Astana (Nur-Sultan).
Prestigious institutions offer different curricula. Haileybury schools (Almaty and Astana) follow the English program (National Curriculum, IGCSE, A-levels). Meanwhile, the Quality Schools International (QSI) group runs Almaty International School and QSI International School of Astana according to an American educational model.
The Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS) network also offers high-level education, often bilingual, with a strong scientific focus.
Costs and Registration
Tuition fees represent a real investment: for international schools, expect on average between $5,000 and $30,000 USD per year, with many institutions around $15,000–$25,000 USD. Some highly sought-after schools have waiting lists, so it’s wise to start the process well before moving.
For younger children, private nurseries and kindergartens cost on average around 123,000 KZT per month (approximately $180–200 USD), which remains moderate compared to many Western capitals.
Banks, Payments, and Money Management
The local currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). The banking system is relatively developed, with a coexistence of large traditional banks (Halyk Bank, Forte, Jusan, etc.) and fintechs like Kaspi.kz, whose applications are omnipresent in daily life (payments, transfers, loans, shopping).
Opening a Bank Account as a Foreigner
This is an often underestimated point: opening a local bank account can be complex for a newcomer, especially without a residence permit. Officially, the National Bank states there are no restrictions for foreigners, but in practice, each bank applies its own compliance rules (KYC/AML).
Documents generally required:
List of essential documents to prepare for your official procedures in France, such as opening a bank account or applying for a residence permit.
Your valid passport, accompanied by a notarized translation if the document is not in French.
Number to obtain from a public service center (like a town hall or prefecture) to identify your file.
Document justifying your status: visa, work permit, or residence registration certificate.
In some cases, proof of employment or income (pay slips, tax notices) may be requested.
Since 2022, controls have tightened: an in-person interview is almost systematic, thorough document verification, processing times ranging from two weeks to a month (sometimes more) to finalize the opening, especially for non-residents or foreign companies.
Kaspi.Bank offers two distinct procedures for foreign clients: a simplified online process for holders of a residence permit, and an in-branch process with signing of specific documents for those who don’t have one. Bank cards issued to non-residents generally have a one-year validity.
Everyday Payments and Transfers
In daily life, the country is largely cashless: payments by card or mobile (QR codes, Kaspi Pay, etc.) are omnipresent in cities, including in taxis, small shops, and cafes. The share of cash is gradually declining, although ATMs remain widely available.
For international transfers, solutions like Wise can offer reduced fees and more favorable exchange rates than traditional banks. Opening multi-currency accounts or using travel cards can simplify managing tenge and foreign currencies.
Tax and Tax Residence: What an Expatriate Must Know
Kazakhstan applies a relatively simple tax regime, but the notion of tax residence is central.
– A tax resident is any person physically present for at least 183 days within any 12 consecutive months, or meeting criteria of “vital interest center” (citizenship/residence permit, family, and primary residence in Kazakhstan).
– Residents are taxed on their worldwide income.
– Non-residents are taxed only on their Kazakh-source income.
The personal income tax rate on salaries is 10% (residents and non-residents). Other types of income may be taxed at specific rates:
| Type of Income (Individuals) | Standard Rate |
|---|---|
| Salary (Residents & Non-residents) | 10% |
| Other Kazakh-source income (NR) | 10–20% |
| Dividends (Residents) | 5% |
| Dividends/Capital (Non-residents) | 15% |
Kazakhstan has signed double taxation treaties with over 50 countries. An expatriate can thus credit taxes paid abroad, under conditions, or benefit from exemptions for certain income types. This, however, requires providing tax residency certificates, legalized and translated, which demands anticipation and organization.
Starting in 2025, residents will need to annually declare their income and assets, including those held abroad, via specific forms.
For companies, the corporate income tax rate is 20%, with a VAT system at 12% and various preferential regimes in special economic zones (exemptions from CIT, VAT, property taxes, etc.). The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) additionally offers a legal framework inspired by English law, long-term tax exemptions, and great attractiveness for financial services or startups.
Conclusion: For Whom is Kazakhstan a Good Expatriation Destination?
Relocating to Kazakhstan as an expatriate means choosing a country that offers unique cultural richness and development opportunities.
– economically dynamic in Central Asia, with sectors in high demand for foreign skills,
– financially accessible, thanks to a cost of living much lower than in Europe or North America, while offering modern metropolises,
– culturally rich, blending nomadic heritage, Russian influences, and globalization,
– but also demanding, with a real language barrier, heavy bureaucracy, extreme climate, and significant limitations in terms of public freedoms and minority rights.
For oil engineers in Atyrau, teachers in Almaty’s international schools, finance professionals at the AIFC, or digital developers attracted by the Neo Nomad Visa, Kazakhstan offers an interesting career springboard, competitive remuneration, and an extraordinary life experience.
For an expatriation project to succeed, it is essential to:
– carefully prepare administrative aspects (visa, work permit, insurance, bank),
– calculate a realistic budget, including school, travel, health,
– anticipate challenges of cultural and linguistic adaptation,
– and accept that Kazakhstan, despite its glass towers and shopping malls, remains a country in transition, where modernity and inertia from the past coexist.
Well-prepared, a move to Kazakhstan can become a deeply enriching experience, both professionally and personally.
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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.
