Kazakhstan Introduces Golden Visa Program to Attract Foreign Investors

The Kazakhstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced a new “golden visa” program on April 30, with the aim of attracting global investors. 

Foreign investors can obtain this visa by investing a minimum of US$300,000 in the charter capital of Kazakh companies or in local publicly traded securities. 

The ministry said that the new visa program is intended to “enhance the country’s investment appeal and support long-term business partnerships.” 

The officials also stressed that the program is in line with the country’s larger goals of enhancing openness, protecting capital, and building long-lasting economic ties internationally.  

The ministry added, “The issuance of ‘golden visas’ creates a favorable and predictable environment for foreign investors, providing legal guarantees and strengthening confidence in Kazakhstan’s investment climate.” 

Applications will be electronically processed, improving access and facilitating applications for foreign investors. When the visa is issued, investors can apply for residency for up to 10 years. 

This new initiative is seen as a strategic move to attract capital and establish Kazakhstan as an investment destination, with the ministry citing the success of similar programs in Europe, the UAE, and Singapore. 

Kazakhstan’s golden visa program is set to take effect on May 10, 2025, in the wake of similar initiatives being introduced in the region. Kazakhstan’s neighbouring country, Uzbekistan, is launching a new golden visa program, with applications opening on June 1. 

The latest visa program is another step towards achieving Kazakhstan’s goal of attracting global talent. In November 2024, the country rolled out the Neo Nomad visa, which targets remote workers and digital nomads.

The Neo Nomad visa permits individuals, especially in the fields of IT, marketing, finance, design, and e-commerce, to reside in Kazakhstan for up to one year while working for a foreign employer. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must show they have a steady monthly income of at least US$3,000. They should also have no criminal history and a valid health insurance.