Kazakhstan may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think about moving abroad for work. But for many expats, this Central Asian country turns out to be a fascinating place to build a career, experience cultural diversity, and enjoy a high quality of life. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering working in Kazakhstan — and how to make the most of your expat journey.
Why Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is the largest economy in Central Asia, rich in natural resources and investing heavily in infrastructure, education, tech, and creative industries. Many foreign companies are opening branches here, and local businesses increasingly value international expertise. For expats, it’s a hotspot for sectors like:
1. Energy — oil and gas multinationals such as Chevron, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies are well-established in cities like Atyrau and Aktau.
2. Finance — The Astana International Financial Centre recruits international legal, finance, and fintech professionals.
3. Education — top schools and universities like Nazarbayev University, Haileybury, and QSI International School often hire foreign staff.
4. Tech and Startups — platforms like Naimi.kz, and Kaspi.kz are shaping Kazakhstan’s digital future and often collaborate with global experts.
Work culture
The work environment in Kazakhstan blends formality with modern flexibility. Business relationships matter a lot — people value trust, hierarchy, and in-person meetings. At the same time, younger professionals, especially in Almaty and Astana, are shifting towards more open, innovative workspaces.
Many startups, creative agencies, and NGOs follow international standards and offer hybrid or remote formats.
We have many expats living and working in Kazakhstan who share their experiences — like the Moroccan Ambassador, who spoke about what surprised him most about Kazakh youth and locals’ mindsets, which you can read here.
Tip: learn some basic Russian and Kazakh. It goes a long way in the workplace and daily life.
Salaries and cost of living
Expats in managerial or technical roles often receive competitive packages, especially when employed by international firms. While salaries vary by industry, the cost of living in Kazakhstan is relatively low compared to Western countries. Almaty is the most expensive city, but still cheaper than most European capitals.
You can expect:
Apartment rent in central Almaty: $500-$900/month
A cup of coffee: $2.50
A cab: $5-$7
Gym membership: $25-$50/month
Visas and work permits
Most expats are sponsored by their employer, who handles the work visa and residency permit process. Citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for 30 days, but to legally work, official paperwork is a must. More details about visa requirements here.
Where expats live and work
Almaty: cultural and economic center, popular with creatives, educators, and tech professionals. Vibrant expat community.
Astana: administrative capital, home to embassies, international organizations, and government-affiliated projects.
Atyrau: hub for oil and gas expats, especially those working for multinational corporations.
Most expats live in modern apartments in central districts or international compounds. Amenities like gyms, supermarkets, and coworking spaces are widely available.
Daily life and community
Kazakhstan is a safe country with warm hospitality. Locals are generally welcoming, curious, and proud of their traditions. You’ll often be invited to family meals or national celebrations. Almaty and Astana also have vibrant international schools, fitness centers, and cafes with English-speaking staff.
Expats can connect through social clubs, coworking hubs, embassy events, and online forums. Here is the link to several expat communities across the country.
Tip: be open to new experiences — from horse meat and fermented milk to skiing in the mountains or learning Kazakh proverbs.
Final thoughts
Working in Kazakhstan as an expat offers a unique blend of career growth, cultural immersion, and adventure. Whether you’re staying for a year or settling longer, it’s a chance to experience a rapidly developing country with deep-rooted traditions and a dynamic future.
If you’re ready to explore Central Asia, Kazakhstan might just be your next unexpected — and unforgettable career move.