Renting and buying property in Almaty for European citizens

Can an EU citizen buy property in Kazakhstan?

Yes, but with a residence permit. For foreigners staying temporarily, on visa-free entry or a work visa, the law doesn't provide the right to buy housing in their own name. A European passport gives no advantage here.

Without a residence permit, the options are an apartment through a Kazakh LLP (limited liability partnership, locally TOO) and commercial property in your own name. For people coming on a 1–3 year contract, I more often recommend renting: it's simpler and doesn't tie up money.

Entry and longer stays: visa-free, Neo Nomad, work visa

Born in Kazakhstan: what it means when moving from Germany or another EU country

Among my European clients are people who were born in Kazakhstan or used to be its citizens and later left. For them the route to a residence permit is simplified, so buying an apartment in their own name is usually easier than for other Europeans.

If that's your case, start with a migration lawyer: your status determines which buying route to choose. I bring in partner lawyers and look for housing in parallel.

How to rent an apartment in Almaty as an expat from Europe

Expats usually want a ready, furnished apartment with good sound insulation and air conditioning, close to the office or an international school. I find options that meet these requirements, check the owner and documents, and write the deposit, repairs and utility payments into the lease.

If your employer is paying for the housing, the lease can be in the company's name. I ask the landlord in advance to confirm they'll register you through the Migration Portal: visa-free foreigners must register no later than 30 days after entry. I handle documents and correspondence in English.

Taxes for a European property owner in Kazakhstan

The main rule: after 183 days in Kazakhstan within 12 months you become a tax resident, and the country can tax your worldwide income. The Ministry of Tourism has said digital nomads' foreign income isn't taxed, but there's little official clarity here, so discuss your case with a tax adviser.

Kazakhstan has double taxation treaties with many European countries, and they affect tax on rental income and sales. When selling housing, a resident pays 10% income tax on the gain, and housing bought after 01.01.2026 is exempt after 2 years of ownership. The rules for non-residents are less clearly explained.

Which Almaty districts do Europeans choose?

Many Europeans fall in love with the Golden Square: shady streets, cafés, parks, everything within walking distance. The downside is the older housing stock, where I always check the building series and earthquake resistance. Families with children often choose Samal: schools, the business centre and the road to the mountains are all nearby.

Those who want more fresh air and views look at Upper Dostyk. There are low-rise buildings and the mountains close by, but living there without a car is inconvenient.

How I support clients from Europe

I work in English, Russian and Kazakh. I find rentals or purchases, run viewings in person and by video, check documents and handle the deal at the notary. We sort out the IIN, bank, LLP and visa questions with partner lawyers, and I coordinate the whole process.

I brought my approach to due diligence from Kaspi Bank: there I found premises for branches and Magnum stores, and every decision had to be justified with numbers. My commission on a purchase starts at 1%.