He cited the accessible cost of the program ($300) and the absence of minimum income requirements as key deciding factors. Abdelmadjid gave the visa program a perfect score of 10 out of 10, praising the simplicity of the process and expressing confidence in its potential to attract global talent and strengthen the local startup ecosystem.
“I would like to thank the Government of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Digital Development for this opportunity. I’m impressed by the Digital Nomad Visa program. As an experienced tech professional with years of international experience, I look forward to contributing to Kazakhstan’s digital development and becoming part of its innovation ecosystem,” said Abdelmadjid Belmekki.

He also recommended expanding the official program website to include detailed information about taxes, legal requirements, business registration, and available incentives for digital nomads.
The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) and Digital Nomad Residency (DNR) programs were launched in 2024 under the directive of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. These initiatives aim to attract leading international professionals, particularly in artificial intelligence and digital technology.
The DNV is designed for tech specialists from countries that require a visa to enter Kazakhstan and offers a simplified application process.
Digital Nomad Residency, launched in January 2025, targets citizens of visa-exempt countries and provides an expedited pathway to residency.
Candidate evaluations — including assessment of professional qualifications and tech expertise — are conducted by Astana Hub, the region’s leading innovation cluster.
To date, more than 152 applications have been submitted from 21 countries, including the United States, Canada, Turkey, Algeria, and various CIS nations. The highest interest comes from professionals in software development, automation, and cybersecurity.
To ensure the effective implementation of the initiative, the Ministry has established a dedicated acceleration group involving all relevant government agencies. Despite traditionally complex immigration procedures, Kazakhstan has succeeded in creating a transparent and efficient mechanism for attracting digital nomads.
Kazakhstan continues to strengthen its position as a regional digital hub — not only by attracting international specialists, but also by heavily investing in local tech talent through education, acceleration, and innovation programs.