Kazakhstan

Move to Kazakhstan

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overview

Welcome to Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, is known for its vast steppes, natural resources, and growing economy. Rich in oil, minerals, and agricultural potential, Kazakhstan serves as a bridge between Europe and Asia with increasing opportunities for investment and development.

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Kazakhstan Essentials

National Anthem

Meniñ Qazaqstanım

Independence Day

December 16, 1991

Haiko

Endless steppes ripple / Eagle hunters ride with pride / Dombra songs echo

Interesting Tradition

Holds eagle hunting festivals where trained golden eagles are used to catch small prey

Weirdest Local Superstition

Whistling indoors is believed to cause poverty

Strangest Law Still on the Books

Illegal to photograph government buildings and officials

overview

Come for the history, stay for the future

Come for the expanse, stay for the expansion: Kazakhstan combines vast steppe landscapes with growing economic opportunities in Central Asia. Life balances between morning rides across endless grasslands and afternoon meetings in modern cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan, while evenings celebrate rich nomadic traditions. Strategic location and natural resources have positioned Kazakhstan as an emerging destination for international business.

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Жүр (Zhür)

Let's explore a land where horizons aren't just views, but visions of possibility. Here, ancient Silk Road traditions meet modern energy in the heart of Eurasia.

overview

Қазақстанға қош келдіңіз

Known for its vast steppes and nomadic heritage, Kazakhstan is the world's largest landlocked country where ancient traditions blend with modern aspirations!

Kazakhstan isn't just a country—it's a bridge between worlds. Here, time moves at the pace of endless steppes, and even a simple journey can turn into an adventure across landscapes that stretch beyond horizons. This is a land where nomadic heritage and modern ambition gallop together like horses across the vast Eurasian plains.

From the gleaming towers of Almaty to the windswept expanses of the Mangystau region, Kazakhstan offers something for every global citizen. Whether you're drawn to the cosmopolitan energy of Nur-Sultan, the mountain retreats of the Tian Shan, or the traditional warmth of rural auls, you'll find a quality of life that prioritizes resilience, hospitality, and the pursuit of boundless possibilities.

Statistics

Savor the Flavor

Eat

beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) - baursak (fried bread dumplings)

Drink

kumys (fermented mare's milk) - shubat (fermented camel's milk)

overview

Сіз шөлдегенсіз бе?

Beer

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

35.10

Wine

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

2.22

Coffee

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

3.83

Tea

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

1.30

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Cultural Tips and Etiquette

#1
Tea culture is sacred - refusing offered tea shows disrespect
#2
Respect for elders is paramount - they speak first and are served first
#3
Removing shoes when entering homes is mandatory - forgetting is deeply rude
#4
Nomadic hospitality traditions still reign - guests are treated like royalty
#5
Knowing your genealogy back seven generations shows cultural connection

overview

Kazakhstan Essentials

Representative Novel

Abai's Way by Mukhtar Auezov (Epic novel exploring Kazakh nomadic culture)

National Animal

Golden eagle

National Pasttime

Kokpar (Buzkashi)

National Souvenir

Hand-crafted felt products

National Dish

Beshbarmak

Famous Festival

Nauryz (Spring equinox celebration)

Famous Dance

Kara Zhorga

Famous Music

Dombra music

overview

Did You Know?

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Kazakhstan’s Key Historical Events

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MOBILITY

Access Kazakhstan Residency Rights on the GlobalPassport™ Platform 

NO. OF Mobility Assets

2
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MOBILITY

Citizenship Pathways and
Residency Requirements

Citizenship by Birth
No
Citizenship by DESCENT
Yes
Citizenship by MARRIAGE
4 years
DUAL Citizenship
No
RESIDENCY BY Naturalization
5
PASSPORT VALIDITY
10 years

MOBILITY

Passport Power

Visa Free Countries

114

Performance Class

Global Contender

Passport Grade

B-

Rank

87

Score

113.3

This visa grants access to:

• 41% of the world's population 

• 32% of UNESCO sites 

• 31% of global GDP 

• 46% of the world's land area 

MOBILITY

Visa-free access to:

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MOBILITY

Number of American Emigrants to Kazakhstan by Year 

Year
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
Kazakhstan
1,242
1,385
1,529
1,684
1,796
1,923
2,105

MOBILITY

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Select up to 3 Mobility Assets
Mobility Asset
Approval Time (est.)
Appointment Availability
Term (i.e. duration)
Minimum Investment
Physical Presence Requirement
Cost of Living
English Usage
Quality of Life
Healthcare Ranking
Passport Power
Visa-free Country Access
Number of American Expats
More Details

Rankings

Kazakhstan's Global Rankings 

Kazakhstan stands out with excellent happiness levels (#43) and minimal tax burden (#24). Our comprehensive analysis shows its strong rule of law (#65) and affordable cost of living (#121).

Exceptional performance
Standard performance
Needs Improvement
Rankings are based on 2023-2024 Global Indices and Assessments from recognized international organizations. Updated quarterly to reflect the most recent available data
121
Cost of Living
2024
Affordable
82
Quality of Life
2024
Low
59
Safety
2024
Centered
43
Happiness
2024
Excellent
24
Tax Burden
2024
Minimal Load
103
English Proficiency
2023
Low Proficiency
65
Rule of Law
2024
Strong
78
Healthcare System
2024
Basic Plan
Pleasant Climate
2024

Healthcare

Healthcare Overview

Key Health Indicators

Median Age

31.6

years

Life Expectancy

75,3

years

Obesity Rate

21.30%

Tobacco Use

38.20%

Sources

Health care Indicators

Health Expenditure

3.92%

of GDP

Hospital Beds

6.7

per 1000 people

Doctors

3.98

per 1000 people

Out-of-pocket

32.20%

of total expenditure

Sources

Healthcare

Did you Know?

National Health Service (NHS)

Kazakhstan's public healthcare operates under a state-funded model supported by social health insurance. All citizens and legal residents can access care through the national benefits package.

Private Healthcare Sector

Private hospitals and clinics are expanding in Kazakhstan’s cities, offering faster service and better facilities. These are often preferred by expatriates and wealthier locals.

Healthcare for Expats

Legal residents and expatriates with valid permits can access public healthcare. However, many choose private providers for convenience and language accessibility.

Focus on Preventive Care

Kazakhstan has prioritized early detection and prevention in recent health reforms, promoting screenings and routine check-ups through public clinics.

Pharmaceutical Affordability

Basic medications are subsidized by the government, but brand-name or imported drugs may be costly and more available in private pharmacies.

Healthcare

United Healthcare Coverage Service Index (2000 - 2021)

The World Health Organization's United Healthcare Coverage Service Index (2000-2021) data describes the coverage of essential health services, defined as the average coverage of essential services based on tracer interventions that include reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases and service capacity and access, among the general and the most disadvantaged population.
Source:

Healthcare

Kazakhstan Healthcare Cost Calculator

This calculator helps you compare healthcare expenditures between different countries based on per capita health spending data. The tool provides a straightforward comparison by allowing you to:
1. Select your current location from the dropdown menu
2. Choose a comparison country to see the difference in healthcare costs

The calculator displays two key metrics:
• Healthcare Expense Difference: The absolute dollar amount difference in per capita healthcare spending between the selected countries
• Percentage Difference: The relative difference expressed as a percentage
Please note that these calculations are based on annual per capita health expenditure data, which includes current prices and purchasing power parities (PPP). The figures represent total healthcare spending, encompassing both public and private healthcare expenses. For the most accurate planning and decision-making, please consult with healthcare providers or insurance companies in your target country for specific coverage options and costs.
Source:

cost of living

Cost of Living Overview

Kazakhstan offers a relatively affordable cost of living, though prices can vary between urban and rural areas. Almaty and Astana (Nur-Sultan) are the most expensive cities, with housing costs higher than in other regions. Food is generally affordable, especially when purchasing from local markets. Utilities are moderately priced, with average monthly costs around $95 for an 85-square-meter apartment. Public transportation is efficient and inexpensive. Education costs are moderate, with public universities offering affordable tuition fees compared to private institutions. ​

Cost of Gasoline

0.46

per liter

Cost of Meal

7.47

(Inexpensive Restaurant)

Monthly Rent

437.52

(1 bedroom, City Center)

Monthly Utilities

54.85

(85m² Apartment)

Domestic Beer

1.12

(0.5 liter draught)

VAT Rate

12%

cost of living

Kazakhstan Cost of Living plus Rent Map

map visualization

cost of living

Kazakhstan Cost of Living Calculator

cost of living

Kazakhstan Rent Calculator

Taxation

Taxation Overview

Before moving to Kazakhstan, it's important to understand its tax system. Kazakhstan taxes resident expats on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on Kazakh-source income. The country employs a flat income tax rate of 10% for most personal incomes. Individual capital gains are generally taxed at 10%. Social security contributions are mandatory for employed individuals. The VAT rate stands at 12%, and property taxes apply as well. A Tax Identification Number is necessary for taxation purposes. Kazakhstan has a double taxation treaty with the United States to prevent dual taxation issues.

Tax Residency Requirement

183 days

Worldwide Income Taxation

Yes

Higher Rates for Foreign Assets

No

US Double Taxation Treaty

Yes

Personal Income

Progressive tax rate based on income levels

10%

Personal Capital Gains

Flat rate on investment gains

10%

Inheritance

Based on inherited amount and relationship

0%

Corporate Income

Standard corporate tax rate applied to business profits

20%

Corporate Capital Gains

Tax rate applied to capital gains from corporate investments

20%

Dividends

Withholding tax rate applied to dividend distributions

15%

Interest

Withholding rate interest payment to non-residens

15%

Royalties

Withholding tax rate for royalty payments

15%

Work Assignment

Foreign individuals are considered tax residents if they spend 183 or more days in Kazakhstan in any consecutive 12-month period.

Overall Ranking

Global position in PWC’c Ease of Paying Taxes ranking

Ease of Paying Taxes Score

Overall score based on multiple factors

Total Tax and Cotribution Rate

TTCR percentage including all mandatory contributtions

%

Time to Comply

Annual hours required to comply with tax regulations

HOURS

Number of Payments

Total number of tax payments required annually

Post-filing Index

Score measuring the ease of processes after filing taxes

%

taxation

Kazakhstan Tax Burden Map

map visualization

taxation

Kazakhstan Income Tax Calculator

This calculator helps you estimate your income tax obligations based on your personal situation and country of residence. The calculation includes essential tax elements specific to each jurisdiction, such as personal allowances, various types of deductions or tax credits, and progressive tax rates where applicable. The estimation considers multiple key inputs that vary by country, including your annual gross income (in USD), marital status when relevant, number of dependent children, as well as additional factors like medical expenses, educational costs, and retirement contributions.

The calculator provides three main results:
• Total Deductions and/or Tax Credits (based on jurisdiction-specific rules)
• Net Taxable Income (income subject to tax)
• Final Income Tax amount
Please note that these calculations are estimates and can vary significantly depending on specific circumstances, additional income sources, special deductions, and changes in tax regulations across different countries. Some jurisdictions may use tox credits instead of deductions, have different qualifying criteria for dependents, or consider various types of expenses differently. For precise tax planning and compliance, please consult with a qualified tax professional familiar with your jurisdiction's tax laws.
Source:

CLIMATE

Climate Type

Continental climate with hot summers and cold winters

Average Temperature

6.4°C (43.5°F)

Humidity

66

%

Average Annual Precipitation

250

mm

Rainless Days per Year

285

Best Time to Travel

June-August

Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions About Gaining Residency or Citizenship in Kazakhstan

Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our tools guiding you towards residency or citizenship in Kazakhstan.

What Mobility Assets are available to me in Kazakhstan?

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Do I need to speak Kazakh or Russian to apply for residency or citizenship in Kazakhstan?

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Can my family members apply for residency or citizenship in Kazakhstan with me?

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How will GlobalPassport™ help me move to Kazakhstan?

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Can I keep my own citizenship?

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overview

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