Kyrgyzstan Offers Digital Nomad Status to Foreign Specialists

Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov has signed legislative amendments introducing the status of Digital Nomad for foreign citizens working in information and communication technologies (ICT), software development, creative industries, and related areas. Digital Nomads are exempt from mandatory registration at their place of domicile in Kyrgyzstan, can obtain a personal identification number (PIN), do not need to obtain permits for work, enjoy the right to engage in entrepreneurial activity as an individual entrepreneur or a legal entity, and are allowed to open bank accounts. According to the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, which spearheaded the amendments, this initiative aims to create favorable conditions for attracting digital nomads to Kyrgyzstan. It is expected to contribute to the development of innovative projects, the growth of high-tech industries, increased tax revenues, job creation, and tourism development. In neighboring Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that as of November 18, 2024, the country has enacted updated visa regulations to attract business immigrants, skilled professionals, and tourists. Kazakhstan is introducing a Digital Nomad Visa, a single-entry electronic or multiple-entry paper visa for IT specialists, allowing long-term residence. Additionally, the Neo Nomad Visa offers extended stays to “neo-nomads” who have a verified monthly income of at least $3,000. Applicants for the Neo Nomad Visa must provide health insurance and proof of a clean criminal record.