Astana (TDI): Kazakhstan has issued the first residence permit under its newly introduced Digital Nomad Residency program, a central part of the country’s strategy to attract international talent in digital technologies and artificial intelligence.
The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry announced that the initial 10-year residency was granted to Pavel Filatov, a Senior Analytics and BI Engineer. The program streamlines the path for qualified foreign professionals to gain permanent residency.
Since its launch in January 2025, more than 270 applications have been submitted by specialists from over 20 countries, including the United States, Canada, France, Turkiye, and several post-Soviet nations. Most applicants come from fields such as programming, cybersecurity, DevOps, and UI/UX design.
“The Digital Nomad Residency program offers a rare chance to combine comfortable living conditions with a rapidly growing tech ecosystem,” said Filatov. He added, “The process was straightforward and efficient. For IT professionals worldwide, this program creates new opportunities. Kazakhstan has immense potential for professional growth and global collaboration, and I am honored to be the first to receive this residency,” according to The Times of Central Asia.
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The residency builds on Kazakhstan’s earlier Digital Nomad Visa, launched alongside two other visa categories this year: the Neo Nomad Visa and the Residence Visa. Together, these initiatives aim to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors.
The Digital Nomad Visa allows long-term stays for freelancers, IT experts, and startup founders. The Neo Nomad Visa targets traveling remote workers, requiring proof of $3,000 monthly income, health insurance, and a clean record. The Residence Visa focuses on professionals in medicine, science, education, innovation, and creative fields, with stays of up to 90 days.
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The ministry also confirmed that the first Digital Nomad Visas, issued without income requirements, have already gone to IT professionals from Algeria and Botswana. Holders may work with both Kazakh and foreign companies and can later apply for residency.
