Pros and Cons of Moving to Kazakhstan

Living in Kazakhstan can be a fascinating adventure if you weigh up the pros and cons to ensure that relocating to this vast Eurasian country is the right decision for you. Astana (previously Nur-Sultan), the capital, might be overlooked at first. Almaty long overshadowed it, but more corporate headquarters, embassies, and consular services have since shifted north to Astana.

A quick internet search will tell you that Astana is the world’s second-coldest capital city. The question is, what is life really like here? Below, you’ll find a snapshot of the key pros and cons to consider if you decide to move to Kazakhstan.

Working and doing business in Kazakhstan

Working and doing business in Kazakhstan will likely feel slightly different from what you may be used to. However, making the necessary adjustments will be essential to your success in the workplace.

+ PRO: Good salary packages

Many expats arrive with international firms or embassies, but more openings in education and technology are emerging. These roles typically offer competitive pay and perks such as housing, education, and healthcare allowances.

- CON: Nobody says no

Getting straightforward answers in meetings could be challenging. Locals generally have trouble saying ‘no’, so they might agree to a proposal initially but never deliver if it’s not actually possible.

- CON: Bureaucracy is rife

Even though processes are improving, you’ll still have to cope with a fair amount of red tape. Most official documents and meetings are in Russian or Kazakh, so a translator is indispensable if you don’t speak these languages.

Working in Kazakhstan
Doing Business in Kazakhstan

Accommodation in Kazakhstan

Accommodation in Kazakhstan ranges from standard Soviet-era flats to modern high-rises. Your budget or employer-subsidised allowance makes a significant difference. Newer complexes, especially in Astana and Almaty, include better insulation and modern amenities, although supply can be limited during construction slowdowns.

+ PRO: Expanding choices in accommodation options

Astana is witnessing rapid development, with new apartment blocks springing up across the city. Landlords in modern buildings tend to furnish apartments on request. You’ll find everything from riverside flats in the older districts to sleek tower units in the central zones. One- to three-bedroom apartments are most common, although bigger ones are around if you keep looking.

- CON: Houses are hard to find

Detached homes are scarce in the main cities and command much higher rents. Heating a large house in winter can also be pricey, and landlords often pass these costs to tenants.

+ PRO: Cheap utilities

Heating and water are centrally managed, so you pay less than you would for an individual boiler. The country’s harsh winters have necessitated that the system is solid and reliable.

- CON: No control over utilities

Centralised heating leaves you with little say about when it’s switched on or off. Some buildings run so hot that you may need to crack open a window to cool down, even when it’s icy outside.

Accommodation in Kazakhstan

Cost of living in Kazakhstan

The cost of living in Kazakhstan depends on how you balance local and imported products. Many everyday food items and basic household goods are affordable, while certain imports remain expensive.

+ PRO: Affordable basic food

Locally produced essentials, such as dairy and grains, are generally inexpensive. Kazakhstan’s agricultural base means fresh meat, milk, and bread won’t break the bank. If you want a wider range of food products, particularly international food, expect to pay a lot more.

- CON: Pricey furniture, clothing, and electronics

Much of the furniture, branded clothing, and tech devices come from abroad, and you may see hefty markups. Second-hand marketplaces are a popular alternative for budget-conscious shoppers. The tenge can fluctuate, so your spending power might shift from month to month.

Cost of Living in Kazakhstan

Lifestyle in Kazakhstan

Lifestyle in Kazakhstan can be surprisingly diverse, even with Astana’s famously icy winters. You might worry about the cold, but the city is well set up to cope with snow and sub-zero temperatures, and you’ll still find plenty to do in your free time.

+ PRO: Growing social scene

People in Kazakhstan tend to be warm and welcoming. The international community in cities like Astana and Almaty remains relatively small, but it’s expanding quickly. You’ll find interest groups ranging from dance classes to adventure sports, and Facebook or Telegram forums often host regular social gatherings.

- CON: The country’s cities are largely isolated

Astana sits hundreds of miles from other major hubs, and flight routes can be limited. You might need to transfer through Moscow, Frankfurt, or Vienna if you plan to travel farther afield. The airport stays open in most conditions, but severe snowfall can interrupt roads and rail links now and again.

+ PRO: Excellent winter sports opportunities

Kazakhstan’s winter is no joke, but it’s also the perfect chance to try skiing or snowboarding at slopes near Almaty, such as Shymbulak. Ice hockey is popular too, and many expats join friendly leagues. The energy of these sports can help you see the colder months in a whole new light.

Safety in Kazakhstan

Safety in Kazakhstan is generally good. Police patrols are more noticeable in major cities, and there are urban projects using automation to monitor traffic and reduce congestion. That said, you’ll want to stay aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re driving on wintry roads or withdrawing cash in unfamiliar areas.

+ PRO: Low crime rates

Astana has minimal petty theft and even lower levels of serious crime. The new town centre remains lively late into the evening, and most people feel fine walking alone at night. Cameras in public spaces help keep troublemakers away.

- CON: Hazardous driving conditions

Many expats might rely on a company car and driver, but if you set off on your own, be prepared for snow and ice. Astana’s roads are cleared promptly, but black ice still poses a risk. Rural highways can be dicey, and rescue services might take longer to respond during storms.

- CON: Bribery and scams can happen

Fake police officers demanding bribes or random individuals offering ‘special deals’ can crop up. Always ask for proper identification, and avoid roadside transactions with unknown parties. Most locals are honest, but you should stay alert.

+ PRO: Significant road safety improvements

Kazakhstan has introduced stricter drunk driving laws, and AI-powered traffic monitoring systems have pushed accident rates down substantially in recent years. Smart City initiatives are on the rise in Astana, improving emergency response and reducing reckless driving.

Local culture in Kazakhstan

Learning to adapt to the local culture in Kazakhstan will play a huge part in settling into your new life comfortably. Many residents appreciate even a few words of Kazakh or Russian, and you’ll fit in faster if you show genuine interest in local customs.

+ PRO: Friendly and welcoming locals

Kazakhstanis are famous for their hospitality. Neighbours might drop by with gifts or festive treats during national holidays. Landlords commonly leave little presents or welcome hampers.

- CON: Drinking culture

Vodka toasts and unique local drinks, like fermented camel’s milk, feature heavily at social gatherings. It can be overwhelming if you’re unused to frequent toasts, although few people will pressure you if you politely decline.

+ PRO: Vibrant cultural festivals and events

From the World Nomad Games to the Almaty Apple Festival, Kazakhstan hosts year-round celebrations of its multicultural identity. Traditional performances, craft markets, and musical shows give you a front-row seat to local heritage. You can also find contemporary events that celebrate modern art, music, and cuisine.

Local Culture in Kazakhstan

Education and schools in Kazakhstan

Education in Kazakhstan can be a surprisingly varied experience for your family. Astana and Almaty boast new and expanded international schools, including those offering the International Baccalaureate, British A-Levels, and American-style curricula. If your children speak some Kazakh or Russian, local schools are also worth considering, especially as more institutions introduce bilingual programmes.

+ PRO: Increasing choice of international schools

Many international schools recruit teachers from abroad, and many provide excellent standards of education. Your children can often continue with a familiar curriculum, which simplifies transitions between countries. New schools keep opening to meet demand, so you’ll have a wider pool of options.

- CON: Limited space in international schools

Top institutions are incredibly popular with both locals and foreign residents. Waiting lists can be long, so it’s worth contacting them as early as possible to secure a spot. Some schools give priority to expats and diplomatic families, but it’s still wise to apply months – or even a year – ahead.

You may find that top-tier schools charge hefty annual fees, which can strain your budget if you’re paying out of pocket. While many employers offer educational allowances, it’s best to confirm these benefits well before enrolment.

Schooling in Kazakhstan 
International Schools in Kazakhstan

Healthcare in Kazakhstan

Healthcare in Kazakhstan is growing rapidly, with new hospitals and clinics under construction in major cities. A modern multi-profile facility in Astana and major upgrades in Kokshetau aim to ease pressure on existing providers. Public healthcare is free in principle, although you may face long queues. Private clinics offer faster service but charge higher fees, especially for specialist care or maternity services.

- CON: Most intensive medical care takes place abroad

Serious operations or advanced procedures often require referral to top-tier hospitals in Frankfurt, Istanbul, or beyond. You’ll find routine GP visits and emergency treatment on the ground in Astana, but complicated surgeries or specialist procedures may be arranged elsewhere through air ambulance services or medical partnerships with Russia and China.

+ PRO: Specialist care is on the rise

Cardiology, oncology, and paediatrics are all improving in major centres, with more highly trained doctors and upgraded equipment. New hospital expansions aim to build on these services, so you no longer need to travel internationally for every advanced treatment.

+ PRO: International health insurance

Most foreign workers receive health coverage through employers. This usually includes access to private clinics, which helps you sidestep the queues at public hospitals. You can schedule regular checkups more conveniently, and any major issues can be coordinated with your insurer for swift referrals.

If you lack employer-sponsored insurance, you could face steep costs at private hospitals, especially for specialist consultations or extended stays. It’s a good idea to research coverage options and confirm whether your policy extends to family members if you’re moving with children or a partner.

Healthcare and Health Insurance in Kazakhstan