Almaty, Kazakhstan

Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa
  Citizens of most countries, including the EU, the US, and Canada, can stay in Kazakhstan for up to 30 days without a visa. For longer stays, a tourist visa is required, and this can typically be obtained through a Kazakhstan consulate or an eVisa
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)
  Kazakhstan does not generally offer a visa on arrival. However, citizens from certain countries may enter Kazakhstan with an eVisa for up to 30 days.
• Digital Nomad Visa
  Currently, Kazakhstan does not offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, you can enter the country on a tourist visa and extend your stay if you are working remotely.

For visa information, visit the Kazakhstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Cost of Living

Accommodation
Accommodation in Almaty is relatively affordable compared to major European and North American cities, though it’s more expensive than in many other parts of Kazakhstan.

• Budget: Dormitories and shared apartments cost between $ 6.36 – $10 per night.
• Mid-range: Private rooms or 1-bedroom apartments range from $20 – $45 per night.
• Luxury: Upscale hotels or serviced apartments in central areas such as Panfilov Street or Zhetysu can cost from $64 – $106.00 per night.

Food
Food in Almaty is affordable with a variety of options from street food to upscale restaurants.

• Street food: Simple meals from street vendors cost between $2 – $4.
• Mid-range restaurants: A 3-course meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant would cost around $12 – $21.
• Fine dining: High-end restaurants charge around $31 – $64 per person.

Transportation
The city has a reliable public transport system, including buses, trolleys, and a metro.

• Public transport: A single fare costs around $0.30.
• Taxis: Starting fare for taxis is around $1.00, and the cost per kilometer is about $ 0.30.

Healthcare
Healthcare in Kazakhstan is of reasonable quality but can be limited in rural areas. Expats typically prefer to have private health insurance for access to better services. State health care is free for residents, but the quality may vary.

Climate & Weather

• Summer (June to August): Warm with temperatures averaging between 25°C and 35°C (77°F – 95°F). This is the best time to enjoy Almaty’s outdoor attractions, including hiking and visiting the nearby Alatau Mountains.
• Winter (December to February): Cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging between -5°C to -10°C (23°F – 10°F), though they can dip lower. The area offers great opportunities for skiing in nearby resorts like Shymbulak.
• Spring (March to May): A mild and pleasant period with temperatures around 10°C to 20°C (10°F – 68°F), making it perfect for enjoying the city’s parks and outdoor activities.
• Autumn (September to November): Cooler temperatures with colorful foliage. Temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F – 60°F) in the early autumn, and 5°C to 0°C (41°F – 32°F)as it gets closer to winter.

Landscape

Almaty is known for its stunning natural scenery, surrounded by the Tian Shan Mountains. The area offers a variety of landscapes, including forests, mountain lakes, and ski resorts. The city itself is green and well-maintained, with ample parks such as Panfilov Park and First President’s Park. Just outside the city, the Almaty Nature Reserve provides hiking opportunities, and in the winter, Shymbulak Ski Resort becomes a popular destination.

Things to Do

• Heritage Sites
  • Ascension Cathedral: A beautiful Russian Orthodox cathedral located in Panfilov Park.
  • Central State Museum: Learn about Kazakhstan’s rich history and diverse cultures.
  • Zenkov Cathedral: One of the world’s tallest wooden structures and a significant historical site.
• Adventure Activities
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the Tian Shan Mountains or visit Big Almaty Lake.
  • Skiing: Almaty is a gateway to Shymbulak Ski Resort, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter.
  • Paragliding: Try paragliding for a bird’s-eye view of the city and its mountains.
• Nightlife
  The city has a growing nightlife scene with trendy bars, clubs, and lounges in areas like Zhetysu and Dostyk Avenue.
• Wellness Retreats
  Almaty has several wellness retreats offering yoga, spas, and meditation These are located in serene natural environments such as the Charyn Canyon or Turgen Gorge.
• Shopping
  • Zhibek Zholy Street: Almaty’s main shopping street, lined with international brands and local boutiques.
  • Mega Mall: A large shopping center offering everything from clothing to electronics.

Lifestyle

Almaty’s lifestyle is influenced by its central location in Central Asia and its mix of modern conveniences and traditional practices. The city’s residents enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle, taking time to relax in the city’s parks, drink tea, and visit cafés. Almaty also has a robust sports culture, with many people participating in hiking, skiing, and cycling.

Almaty is a melting pot of various cultures, and expats will find it easy to integrate into social life. The local people are generally friendly and welcoming. The city offers a variety of expat-friendly activities, from language exchange programs to international social events.

Other Important Locations in Kazakhstan

• Astana (Nur-Sultan): The capital city, known for its futuristic architecture and government buildings.
• Shymkent: A major city in southern Kazakhstan known for its historical significance and agriculture.
• Karakol: Known for its proximity to Issyk-Kul Lake and excellent skiing and hiking.

Rental Accommodations

• Budget: Hostels or shared apartments cost between $ 6.00 – $15 per night.
• Mid-range: Private rooms or 1-bedroom apartments range from $ 21. – $ 32 per night.
• Luxury: Upscale hotels or serviced apartments in central areas such as Republic Square or Dostyk Avenue range from $53 – $85 per night.

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

Almaty has a growing number of co-working spaces, including places like Platforma and StartUp Almaty. These spaces are ideal for digital nomads, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. Memberships typically cost between $100 – $200 per month, depending on the services offered.

Connectivity

• WiFi: WiFi is available in most urban areas, with reliable access in cafes, hotels, and coworking spaces. Speeds are generally sufficient for remote work.
• SIM: Beeline, Kcell, and Tele2 are the primary providers, offering affordable prepaid plans. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or retail outlets.

Volunteering Opportunities

Almaty offers a range of volunteering opportunities through local NGOs, such as Green City, which focuses on environmental initiatives, and Almaty Volunteers, which works with disadvantaged communities.

Local Employment Options

• Teaching English or other foreign languages.
• Roles in oil, gas, or mining industries.
• Hospitality positions in hotels or resorts.

Real Estate Investment Options

While the real estate market in Almaty is competitive, there are opportunities for both residential and commercial properties. The city’s property market continues to grow, with significant investment potential in newly developed areas and luxury apartment complexes.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Almaty is emerging as a tech and entrepreneurial hub in Central Asia. With an increasing number of incubators and accelerators, it’s becoming an attractive location for startups. Popular areas of growth include IT, fintech, and agriculture technologies.

Business Setup Process for Expats

1. Choose a Business Structure: You can opt for Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or Joint Stock Company (JSC).
2. Register Your Business: Register through Kazakhstan’s electronic services platform.
3. Obtain a Business Number: Required for taxation and dealing with authorities.
4. Open a Bank Account: Required for all business transactions.
5. Register for Taxes: Register your business for VAT if turnover exceeds KZT 30 million.
6. Get Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits, depending on your industry (e.g., construction, retail).

Business Opportunities in Almaty

• Tech and IT: With its growing start-up ecosystem, Almaty presents numerous opportunities for businesses in software development, IT services, and e-commerce.
• Tourism: Almaty’s natural beauty and proximity to ski resorts make it a prime location for tourism-related businesses, including tour agencies, hotels, and adventure sports.
• Agriculture: Due to Kazakhstan’s vast agricultural industry, agribusinesses, including food processing and export, have a significant presence.
• Education and Language: With the increasing number of international visitors and expats, there are business opportunities in language schools, international schools, and educational consulting.
• Retail and Distribution: Retail is booming in Almaty, especially for fashion and electronics. Setting up retail shops or distribution networks in the city can be a profitable venture.