Working in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan's economy is rooted in its natural resources, with around a third of the country's GDP derived from agriculture. Other prominent industries include mining, manufacturing, and exports.

Most expats will earn salaries far lower than what is possible in Western countries or other expat destinations in general. Still, the low cost of living eases financial pressure. While expats aren't likely to become rich in Kyrgyzstan, they can live comfortably while experiencing a new culture and working environment.

Cost of Living in Kyrgyzstan

Job market in Kyrgyzstan

You'll find that expats working in Kyrgyzstan are largely employed in the development sector, either for large, international organisations such as the United Nations and the European Commission, or for smaller non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

In addition to development opportunities, you can find several foreign-owned mining companies operating in Kyrgyzstan. Native English speakers, and those of European languages to a lesser extent, are always in high demand for teaching positions across all education levels.

Kyrgyzstan's emerging IT and technology sector is also hiring expats who are skilled in AI, blockchain, machine learning, and IT project management. As the country seeks to improve its healthcare system, demand for skilled healthcare professionals is also growing. 

Finding a job in Kyrgyzstan

As most international organisations and NGOs are required to post job openings online, those who are interested in roles in these fields should research the websites of organisations and companies operating in Kyrgyzstan. It is not impossible to find such a position once in Kyrgyzstan, but most employers advertise and hire for positions based on online correspondence instead of looking for potential candidates who are already in the country.

Every foreigner planning to work in Kyrgyzstan must have a valid work permit. Most employers will organise the visa and work permit. Expats should be wary of language schools and smaller organisations that do not assume this burden.

Useful links

• Development Aid – Jobs in Kyrgyzstan
• UNjobs
• LinkedIn

Work culture in Kyrgyzstan

The Kyrgyz working week is Monday through Friday, and the typical workday is eight to nine hours. Teachers could have an altered schedule depending on their class load. Punctuality is not an obvious aspect of business in Kyrgyzstan and, though expats should be punctual themselves, they should be prepared to plan meetings around other participants arriving at least 15 minutes late.

Hierarchy plays an important role in the work culture in Kyrgyzstan, so expect decision-making to be deferred to superiors or older colleagues. Locals tend to communicate indirectly to avoid confrontation and maintain harmony in the workplace, which can initially make it difficult for expats to discern when a yes is a yes and a yes is a no. 

It's useful to have business cards with one side printed in English and the other in Kyrgyz or Russian. You should dress smartly for business purposes, and always remember to keep your shoes clean.