More than 260 foreign IT specialists have received digital nomad status in Kazakhstan

Astana Hub has presented the latest results of the Digital Nomad Residency and Digital Nomad Visa programs, which contribute to the development of international ties, the exchange of technological expertise, and the growth of the IT community in Kazakhstan. As of August 2026, 250 foreign IT specialists have obtained permanent residence permits under the Digital Nomad Residency program, and another 12 IT specialists have received Digital Nomad Visas after completing the established procedures.

The Digital Nomad Residency and Digital Nomad Visa programs are being developed within the framework of the Trusted Kazakhstan concept, aimed at strengthening Kazakhstan's international ties with the global technology community and attracting international IT expertise.

Since the launch of the programs, 1,517 applications have been received from 71 countries around the world. IT specialists from various regions — CIS countries, Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East — have shown interest in Kazakhstan.

The number of submitted applications does not indicate the number of visas or residence permits issued. The process involves several sequential stages: submission and review of the application, issuance of a recommendation by Astana Hub, and further completion of procedures established by state authorities.

As of August 2026, Astana Hub has issued 1,069 recommendations following the review of applications: 1,030 under the Digital Nomad Residency program and 39 under the Digital Nomad Visa program. However, a recommendation is not a visa or a residence permit and does not guarantee automatic acquisition of the corresponding status.

Astana Hub does not issue visas or make decisions on granting residence permits. The role of Astana Hub within the program is limited to reviewing applications and issuing recommendations if the candidate meets the established requirements. After receiving a recommendation, the applicant proceeds with further procedures required by state authorities.

As of today, 262 specialists have obtained the corresponding statuses — approximately 17% of the total number of submitted applications. Submitting an application under the program does not entitle the applicant to receive a visa or residence permit. Each candidate undergoes the established procedure, and the final decision is made by authorized state authorities.

The programs are targeted at foreign IT specialists who meet the established professional criteria and consider Kazakhstan as a platform for living, working, and professional development. These include developers, product managers, artificial intelligence specialists, data analysts, technology entrepreneurs and startup founders, heads of international technology companies, as well as other digital professionals, including those working remotely for foreign employers.

The attraction of international technology specialists facilitates knowledge exchange with Kazakhstani teams, the development of technology entrepreneurship, and the professional IT community. The stay of foreign IT specialists in Kazakhstan may contribute to additional economic activity through their use of local goods and services. In the future, they may launch projects in Kazakhstan, invest in local teams, and create new jobs.