Kazakhstan has launched a “Neo Nomad” visa program aimed at attracting remote workers.
Digital nomads can stay in Central Asia’s largest country for up to a year while working remotely for foreign employers.
They will get the opportunity to experience the country’s culture and contribute to its economy.
Many nations around the world have developed similar visa programs to attract remote workers.
Kazakhstan is following suit by creating its own program to bring in skilled professionals from a variety of fields.
This visa is open to workers in industries like IT, marketing, finance, consulting, design, and e-commerce.
To qualify for the Neo Nomad visa, applicants must show they have a stable monthly income of at least $3,000.
Additionally, they need to show proof of valid health insurance and a clean criminal record.
Tourism and Sports Minister, Yerbol Myrzabasynov, talked about the program:
“There are over 35 million neo-nomads globally, and we aim to create all the conditions to attract them to our country. Moreover, the cities of Almaty and Astana are already among the top 150 cities attractive to neo-nomads.”
The visa program will boost Kazakhstan’s economy. If at least 500 digital nomads take advantage of the visa each year, it could generate around $8 million annually thanks to increased local spending.
Finally, Neo Nomad visa holders work for companies outside of Kazakhstan, so the program does not affect the local job market.