Kazakhs in Spain: a complete guide to living, moving and settling in

Can you move to Spain with a Kazakhstani passport?

Yes. There is no special regime for citizens of Kazakhstan: they obtain residence permits on the same grounds as other foreigners, such as remote work, the non-working residence permit, employment, study, the startup visa or family reunification. The routes are covered in detail below, in the section “Ways for Kazakhstanis to move to Spain”, and all the grounds are in our overview of Spanish residence permits.

• You need a visa. Kazakhstan is on the list of countries whose citizens need a visa to enter the Schengen area, Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2018/1806. Applications for a Spanish visa are submitted through the Spanish consulate that covers your country.
• Remote workers can apply from inside Spain. If you are in the country legally, for example on a valid Schengen visa, the teleworker permit is applied for on the spot. From Kazakhstan, only the visa is applied for, through the consulate. This is how the Unidad de Grandes Empresas (UGE) describes it.
• The criminal record certificate comes from the country where you lived for the last two years. All countries of residence in the five years before applying are checked. Kazakhstan has been party to the Hague Convention since 2001, so Kazakhstani documents are certified with an apostille.
• Citizenship comes after ten years of residence. Kazakhstan is not on the list of countries whose nationals keep their original citizenship when naturalising in Spain, so when you receive a Spanish passport you declare that you renounce Kazakhstani citizenship, under Articles 22 and 23 of the Civil Code. What happens to your Kazakhstani citizenship in that case is explained in our article on dual citizenship in Spain for citizens of Belarus, Kazakhstan and Ukraine.

If you work remotely for a foreign client, start with our guide to the digital nomad residence permit.

Historical background and diplomatic relations

Diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Spain and the Republic of Kazakhstan were established on 11 February 1992, shortly after the collapse of the Soviet Union. This was the start of long-standing cooperation that continues to develop actively in many areas.

Development of the diplomatic presence

In January 1999 the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan opened in Madrid, at Calle Sotillo, 10, 28043 Madrid. A few months later, in June 1999, the Embassy of Spain opened in Astana (at one time renamed Nur-Sultan). Since January 2023 Kazakhstan’s ambassador to Spain has been Danat Musayev, and since 2024 the Spanish embassy in Kazakhstan has been headed by Luis Francisco Martínez Montes.

Over more than three decades of diplomatic relations, the two countries have built a solid framework of cooperation based on mutual respect, international law and the principles of the UN Charter. Trade and economic ties, cultural and humanitarian cooperation and academic exchanges form the basis of bilateral relations.

The Kazakhstani diaspora: size and where people live

Size and demographics

According to official data, about 5,000 citizens of Kazakhstan currently live in Spain. The real number may be higher, however, given those who have obtained Spanish citizenship or permanent residence. The Kazakhstani community in Spain is a dynamic group that has grown actively in recent years.

Main cities of residence

Kazakhstanis have settled throughout Spain, but the largest concentrations are in the following cities:

Where people settle almost matches other Central Asian communities; to compare routes and employment, see our article on Uzbeks in Spain.

Madrid remains the main magnet for the Kazakh diaspora. The Spanish capital attracts entrepreneurs, highly qualified specialists and students. The main cultural and community organisations of Kazakhstanis are based here.

Barcelona is the second-largest centre of the Kazakh diaspora. The Catalan capital attracts creative professionals, IT specialists and business people working in international trade.

Torrevieja on the Costa Blanca has become a popular destination for families with children. A mild climate, affordable property and well-developed Russian-speaking infrastructure make the town attractive to Kazakhstanis.

Valencia attracts young people, especially students and technology specialists. The city is known for its language schools and universities.

San Sebastián in the Basque Country is home to a small but active Kazakh community, many of whom work in services and tourism.

Alicante and other towns on the Mediterranean coast also attract Kazakhstanis thanks to the comfortable climate and quality of life.

Kazakh diaspora organisations

The “Casa kazaja en España” association

The central organisation of the Kazakh diaspora is the “Ispaniyadagy Qazaq Ui – Casa kazaja en España” association, a non-profit cultural and educational organisation that started work on 15 February 2022. According to an interview with the head of the association, it has more than 100 members from different regions of Spain.

Target groups

The association works with three main groups:

1. Kazakh families who have lived in Spain for more than 15–20 years: the diaspora’s “old-timers”, fully integrated into Spanish society but keen to keep their ties with their homeland.

2. Kazakhs who arrived in the last 5 years: a new wave of migration that needs help settling in, learning the language and understanding local realities.

3. Kazakhstani students: both those studying in Spain long-term and those arriving on academic mobility programmes.

Areas of activity

Education is at the core of the association’s work:

• Kazakh language courses for children and adults, aimed at preserving national identity in the younger generation
• Spanish lessons for newly arrived Kazakhstanis, making it easier for them to settle in
• Russian courses for Spaniards interested in the culture of the post-Soviet region and for Kazakhstanis who want to keep up their Russian
• A licensed SIELE centre (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española), the international Spanish language assessment service

Cultural events play an important role in diaspora life:

• The Nauryz celebrations in 2022 and 2023 brought together Kazakhstanis from all over Spain
• The social project “Apostasy”, devoted to pressing social issues
• The cultural project “Qazaq Oyu” (Kazakh ornament), together with the University of Design and Technology in Madrid (UDIT)
• Taking part in the European Kurultai of Kazakhs in Paris (July 2022) and planned participation in Cologne

Notable members of the diaspora

The Kazakh community in Spain includes professionals from many fields:

Zhannat Amangeldiyevna Nurbayeva is president of the “Casa kazaja en España” association. She has lived in Spain for more than 23 years, teaches Kazakh, Spanish and Russian, and represents the Kazakhs of Spain at European and world kurultais.

Eltai Kushekov is a businessman and lawyer, founder of “Madrid company” and “Agency REAL”, which specialise in legal support for Kazakhstanis in Spain.

Ainur Mukanova is an official representative of the Real Madrid Foundation, linked to one of the best-known football clubs in the world.

Dinara Shangerey is an interpreter and coordinator of government programmes between Spain and Kazakhstan.

Tolkyn Sakbayeva and Dauren Kasteyev are renowned Kazakhstani artists representing Kazakh art in Europe.

Fatima Dzhandosova is artistic director of the “Vega” theatre in Torrevieja.

The association’s members also include engineers, translators, actors, film directors and entrepreneurs, each of whom helps spread a positive image of Kazakhstan.

Partnerships and cooperation

In a short time the association has established partnerships with important organisations:

• The Otandastar Foundation (Kazakhstan)
• The Shaisultan Shayakhmetov “Til-Qazyna” National Scientific and Practical Centre
• Kazakh diasporas across Europe
• The organisation of adopted Kazakh children in Spain
• The Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Kingdom of Spain
• Instituto Cervantes
• The University of Design and Technology (UDIT)

Projects and plans

The association actively uses social media as an information platform for Kazakhstani students and to spread Kazakh culture among foreigners. It plans to create a fully fledged Kazakh house for cultural events for Kazakhs from all over southern Europe and for introducing foreigners to Kazakh culture, history and language.

Planned projects include events on the work of Abai Kunanbayev in cooperation with the National Library of Spain, an Oraza Ait celebration and other cultural initiatives.

Ways for Kazakhstanis to move to Spain

Moving to Spain from Kazakhstan requires careful planning and an understanding of the legal routes of immigration. Here are the main options for obtaining a residence permit.

Non-working residence permit (non-lucrative residence visa)

This is one of the most popular routes for financially independent people. The requirements, timelines and pitfalls of this route are covered separately: non-working residence permit (no lucrativa). According to the requirements, you need:

Financial requirements:

• €26,000–30,000 a year for the first family member
• €7,000–10,000 a year for each additional applicant
• A stable income of at least €2,400 a month
• Savings of at least €28,800 a year

Main documents:

• A completed application on the official form
• International passport and copies of all pages
• Criminal record certificate
• Health insurance with cover in Spain
• Proof of financial means (bank statements, income certificates)
• Proof of accommodation in Spain (rental contract or title deed)

An important change in 2024: since 4 March 2024, holders of a Spanish residence permit no longer need to spend at least 183 days in the country to renew it, which makes this type of visa especially attractive for people who want to travel.

Startup visa for innovative projects

You need a business plan with a project that is innovative for the Spanish economy.

Student residence permit

Studying in Spain opens a path to legal residence for young people from Kazakhstan.

Types of student visa:

• Short-stay type C visa: for studies of up to 6 months (language courses)
• Type D visa: for studying at universities and colleges

Advantages of a student residence permit:

• The right to work part-time up to 20 hours a week
• A route to a work visa after graduation
• Access to the European education system
• Relatively low tuition fees at public universities

Admission requirements:

• A secondary school certificate (for a bachelor’s degree)
• Homologation (official recognition) of the certificate
• Knowledge of Spanish (or English for some programmes)
• Financial guarantees

Residence permit through employment

A work visa requires an official job offer from a Spanish employer.

Procedure:

1. The employer applies for a work permit
2. Once it is approved, the foreign worker applies for a work visa
3. A residence permit with the right to work is issued

In-demand professions in Spain for Kazakhstanis:

• IT specialists and programmers
• Engineers (industrial, mechanical)
• Healthcare workers
• Tourism and hospitality specialists
• Sales managers

Family reunification residence permit

If one family member already has legal status in Spain, other family members can join them.

Those entitled to reunification:

• Spouses and partners
• Children under 18 (or under 21 in certain circumstances)
• Dependent parents

Digital nomad visa

A new type of visa introduced in 2023, designed for remote workers and freelancers.

Requirements:

• Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts
• A minimum income of around €2,000 a month
• Health insurance
• No criminal record

The education system for Kazakhstanis

Higher education

Spanish universities are among the best in the world and offer quality education at affordable prices.

Tuition fees:

• Public universities: €900 to €3,000 a year for programmes taught in Spanish
• Private universities: €6,000 to €20,000 a year
• Business schools: €15,000 to €40,000 for an MBA programme

Programme length:

• Bachelor’s degree: 4 years (240 ECTS credits)
• Master’s degree: 1–2 years (60–120 credits)
• Doctorate: 3–4 years

Universities popular with Kazakhstanis:

• Universidad Complutense de Madrid (Madrid)
• Universidad de Barcelona (Barcelona)
• Universidad Politécnica de Valencia (Valencia)
• Universidad de Sevilla (Seville)
• IE Business School (Madrid): for MBA and business programmes

The admission process

Homologation of the school certificate is the mandatory procedure for recognising a foreign school-leaving certificate. The procedure differs for a school certificate and a university degree, and both are covered here: how to get a school certificate and degree recognised in Spain. Applicants from Kazakhstan for a bachelor’s degree must:

1. Apply for homologation through the Spanish Ministry of Education
2. Provide a notarised translation of the certificate
3. Have an apostille on all documents
4. Wait for a decision: 3–6 months

Exams: some regions require the EBAU (Evaluación de Bachillerato para el Acceso a la Universidad) or PCE (Pruebas de Competencias Específicas) exam.

Language requirements:

• For programmes in Spanish: a DELE certificate at B2 level or higher
• For programmes in English: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+

Language schools

Spain has many good language schools for learning Spanish. They are an excellent way to get a student visa and adapt to life in the country.

Course fees:

• Intensive courses: €150–300 a month (20 hours a week)
• Standard courses: €100–200 a month (10–15 hours a week)
• DELE preparation: €200–400 per course

Advantages of studying at a language school:

• A relatively easy visa process
• Flexible schedule
• Immersion in the language
• The possibility of extending the visa
• Getting to know Spanish culture

Grants and scholarships

Although grant programmes for Kazakhstanis are limited, there are opportunities:

• Erasmus Mundus: an EU programme for master’s students
• University scholarships: some universities offer discounts of up to 50% for international students
• The “Bolashak” scholarship: Kazakhstan’s state programme for studying abroad
• How admission, degree recognition and switching from student to work status work is covered in our overview of studying in Spain

School education

Families with children have access to the Spanish school system.

Types of school:

• State schools: free education for residents’ children
• State-subsidised schools (concertadas): funded by the state, with a small fee
• Private schools: €300–1,000 a month

Important: foreigners’ children are entitled to free education at state schools if their parents have legal status in Spain.

Work and professional life

The job market for Kazakhstanis

The Spanish job market offers opportunities in many sectors of the economy.

In-demand sectors and average salaries:

Detailed figures by profession, region and industry are in our overview of salaries in Spain, and how the job search itself works for a foreigner is in our article on working in Spain.

Looking for work

Main job search platforms:

• InfoJobs.net: the largest Spanish job site
• LinkedIn: for qualified professionals
• Indeed España
• Jooble España: popular with Russian speakers
• Layboard: specialises in vacancies for foreigners

Language requirements:

• Spanish is required for most positions (at least B2)
• English is an advantage in IT and international companies
• Russian and Kazakh can be a plus in the tourism business

Entrepreneurship

Starting your own business is a popular path for Kazakhstanis in Spain.

Business forms:

• Autónomo (self-employed): minimum contributions of around €300 a month
• Sociedad Limitada (SL): a limited liability company, minimum capital €3,000
• Sociedad Anónima (SA): a public limited company, minimum capital €60,000

Taxation:

• VAT (IVA): standard rate 21%
• Corporate income tax for small businesses: 25%
• Incentives for startups in the first years

Startup support: Spain actively supports innovative projects through acceleration programmes, public grants and tax incentives.

Remote work

With the arrival of the digital nomad visa, Spain has become an attractive place for remote workers from Kazakhstan. Working for Kazakhstani or international companies, you can live legally in Spain and enjoy a high quality of life.

Cost of living and finances

Monthly budget

The cost of living in Spain varies by region and lifestyle.

For one person (mid-range):

• Rent (one-bedroom flat):
  • Madrid/Barcelona: €1,200–1,400
  • Valencia/Seville: €900–1,200
  • Small towns: €600–800
• Utilities: €80–150
• Groceries: €250–400
• Transport: €50–90 (monthly pass)
• Mobile and internet: €30–50
• Entertainment and leisure: €100–200
• Health insurance: €50–100

Total: €1,200–1,600 a month for one person to live comfortably.

For a family of 4: €2,500–4,000 a month.

Food prices

Staples (average prices):

• Milk (1 l): €0.90–1.20
• Bread (500 g): €1.00–1.50
• Chicken breast (1 kg): €6–8
• Beef (1 kg): €10–15
• Eggs (12): €2–3
• Local cheese (1 kg): €8–12
• Rice (1 kg): €1–2
• Potatoes (1 kg): €1–1.50
• Apples (1 kg): €1.50–2.50
• Tomatoes (1 kg): €1.50–3

Eating out:

• Lunch at an inexpensive café: €10–15
• Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €35–50
• Set menu of the day (menú del día): €10–14, excellent value for money
• Coffee in a café: €1.20–2.50

Property

Buying property:

• Madrid: €3,500–6,000/m²
• Barcelona: €4,000–7,000/m²
• Valencia: €2,000–3,500/m²
• The coast (Torrevieja, Alicante): €1,500–3,000/m²
• Small towns: €1,000–2,000/m²

Renting: the average rent is €14.38 per square metre per month. An 80 m² flat costs about €1,150 a month (national average).

Transport

Public transport:

• Metro/bus (single ticket): €1.50–2.50
• Monthly pass: €40–60
• Taxi (a ride across town): €10–20

Car:

• Buying a used car: from €3,000–7,000
• Petrol (1 l): €1.50–1.70
• Insurance: €400–800 a year
• Maintenance: €200–500 a year

Important: with a legal residence permit, customs clearance of a car brought from Kazakhstan is free.

Healthcare

Public healthcare:

• Free for residents who have health insurance or work legally
• Social security contributions cover most medical services

Private healthcare:

• Basic insurance: €50–100 a month
• A doctor’s visit without insurance: €50–100
• Dentistry: from €40 per consultation

Cultural adaptation and everyday life

Climate and natural conditions

Spain is known for its variety of climate zones, so everyone can choose a region to suit them.

The Mediterranean coast (Valencia, Alicante, Torrevieja):

• Mild winters (+10–15°C)
• Hot summers (+28–35°C)
• More than 300 sunny days a year
• Ideal for families with children

Central Spain (Madrid):

• Continental climate
• Hot summers (+30–38°C)
• Cool winters (0–10°C)

Northern Spain (San Sebastián, Bilbao):

• A cooler and wetter climate
• Mild winters and moderate summers

Southern Spain (Andalusia):

• The hottest region
• Summers of +35–42°C
• Short, mild winters

Mentality and cultural features

Similarities with the Kazakh mentality: according to many Kazakhstanis, Spaniards and Kazakhs share a similar outlook on family values. Both cultures place great value on family, hospitality and close ties with relatives.

Features of Spanish culture:

• Siesta: the tradition of an afternoon break (14:00–17:00), when many shops are closed
• Late dinner: Spaniards usually have dinner at 21:00–22:00
• Openness and sociability: Spaniards are easy to strike up a conversation with
• Respect for personal boundaries: despite their openness, Spaniards respect personal space
• A culture of celebration: numerous fiestas and holidays
• “Mañana”: a relaxed attitude to time and less strict punctuality

The language barrier

Spanish is the key to successful integration.

Proficiency levels:

• A1–A2 (beginner): enough for basic everyday situations
• B1–B2 (intermediate): needed for work and full communication
• C1–C2 (advanced): for professional work that requires complex communication

Where to learn Spanish:

• The “Casa kazaja en España” association offers courses for Kazakhstanis
• Numerous language schools
• Free courses at municipal centres
• Online platforms (Duolingo, Babbel)
• Language exchange (intercambio)

Regional languages: in some autonomous regions, other languages are used alongside Spanish:

• Catalan (Catalonia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands)
• Basque (the Basque Country, Navarre)
• Galician (Galicia)

Social life

Getting on with Spaniards: as Kazakhstanis note, Spaniards are well-mannered and respectful towards others. They are friendly, open to talking with foreigners and willing to help.

The Kazakh community: an active Kazakh diaspora makes settling in easier. Through associations and social media you can find fellow countrymen and get advice and support.

Safety

Spain is a relatively safe country with a low level of violent crime.

Main risks:

• Pickpocketing in tourist areas (especially in Barcelona)
• Property fraud
• Petty theft

Precautions:

• Do not leave belongings unattended
• Keep documents and valuables in a safe place
• Be careful in crowded places
• Use reputable estate agencies

Pros and cons of life in Spain for Kazakhstanis

Advantages

Climate and environment A mild Mediterranean climate, plenty of sunny days, clean air and unpolluted areas make Spain an ideal place to live, especially for families with children.

Affordable cost of living Compared with other Western European countries, Spain is relatively inexpensive. Food is cheaper than in most European countries, and rent is more affordable than in Germany, France or the UK.

Good healthcare and education A well-developed healthcare and education system is available to residents. State schools are free, and universities offer quality education at reasonable prices.

Business opportunities Spain supports entrepreneurship and startups with a range of funding programmes and tax incentives.

A similar mentality Spaniards’ family values, hospitality and openness resonate with Kazakhstanis, making cultural adaptation easier.

Location Spain is a gateway to Europe. With a Spanish residence permit you can travel freely around the Schengen countries. Its proximity to Africa and ties with Latin America open up further opportunities for travel and business.

Well-developed infrastructure Excellent roads, modern public transport and AVE high-speed trains connect the country’s main cities.

Cultural richness A rich history, architecture, museums, galleries, festivals and holidays make life in Spain full and interesting.

Disadvantages

Bureaucracy The Spanish bureaucracy can be slow and confusing. Paperwork often takes time and patience.

The language barrier Not knowing Spanish significantly limits your options. English is not as widely spoken as in northern Europe, especially outside the big cities.

Difficulty renting Many Kazakhstanis face refusals when trying to rent. In one interview a family from Kazakhstan mentioned being turned down at least 7 times before finding a home.

Limited job opportunities Despite in-demand professions, overall unemployment in Spain is higher than in other EU countries. Competition for jobs is fierce.

Relatively low salaries Salaries in Spain are lower than in Germany, Switzerland or the Nordic countries, which can be a problem for highly qualified professionals.

A slow pace of life For those used to a fast rhythm, the Spanish “mañana” and siesta can be a source of frustration.

Tourist seasonality Tourist regions can get too crowded in summer, and many places close in winter.

Practical tips for moving

Preparing to move

6–12 months before moving:

• Decide on your residence permit route
• Start learning Spanish
• Gather the necessary documents
• Legalise the documents (apostille)
• Prepare the funds

3–6 months before:

• Apply for the visa
• Book temporary accommodation for the first weeks
• Research your chosen city
• Get in touch with the Kazakh diaspora

1 month before:

• Collect the visa
• Buy tickets
• Take out health insurance
• Open a bank account (if possible online)

First steps after arrival

In the first week:

• Municipal registration at your address (empadronamiento)
• Getting your NIE (foreigner identification number)
• Activating your health insurance

In the first month:

• Getting your residence permit (if you do not have it yet)
• Opening a local bank account
• Registering with a health centre
• Enrolling children in school (if you have them)
• Setting up internet and a mobile phone

Recommended cities to live in

Madrid: for career-minded people who love big-city life. More job opportunities, a large Kazakh diaspora, a cultural hub.

Barcelona: for creative people and IT specialists. An international atmosphere, the sea nearby, a well-developed startup industry.

Valencia: a balanced option. Moderate prices, a good climate, the sea nearby, quality education. It ranked 1st in a ranking of the best cities for expats to live in.

Torrevieja: for families with children and retirees. Affordable property, Russian-speaking infrastructure, a calm pace of life.

Alicante: a tourist centre with good infrastructure. Opportunities in tourism and hospitality.

Málaga: a fast-growing coastal city attracting remote workers and entrepreneurs.

Mistakes to avoid

1. Moving without the language This is the most common mistake. Even basic Spanish (A2) makes settling in much easier.

2. Insufficient financial preparation Expenses in the first months are always higher than expected. It is advisable to have a reserve for 6–12 months of living costs.

3. Using unverified agencies When buying or renting property, it is important to use reputable agencies and lawyers.

4. Ignoring local laws Ignorance of the law is no excuse. It is important to learn the basics of employment, tax and immigration law.

5. Isolating yourself from local society If you stay only within the Kazakh or Russian-speaking community, it is hard to truly integrate and make the most of life in Spain.

Useful contacts and resources

Official organisations

Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Spain

• Address: Calle Sotillo, 10, 28043 Madrid
• Phone: (+34) 91 721 62 94
• Email: consulmadrid@mfa.kz
• Embassy website

Embassy of Spain in Kazakhstan

• Address: 62A Kosmonavtov Street, 10th floor, 010000 Astana
• Official website

Useful online resources

For finding housing:

• Idealista.com: the largest property portal
• Fotocasa.es
• Pisos.com

For finding work:

• InfoJobs.net
• LinkedIn
• Indeed.es
• Layboard.com

For learning Spanish:

• Instituto Cervantes
• Duolingo
• Babbel
• Busuu

Conclusion

Spain is an attractive destination for Kazakhstanis who want to change their lives and find new opportunities in Europe. With more than 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, a Kazakh diaspora of 5,000 people and active community organisations, moving to Spain is becoming an ever more accessible and understandable process.

The key factors for successful immigration are:

• Careful preparation and planning
• Financial stability
• Knowledge of Spanish
• Understanding local laws and culture
• Willingness to adapt
• Links with the Kazakh diaspora

Spain offers quality education, affordable healthcare, a favourable climate and opportunities for business. At the same time, a similar mentality, family values and Spanish hospitality make integration more comfortable for Kazakhstanis.

Life in Spain is not only sunny weather and beautiful beaches but also new opportunities, international experience and a quality of life valued by millions of immigrants from all over the world. With the right approach and preparation, your move can be the start of a success story in this wonderful country.

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This article is based on official sources, interviews with members of the Kazakh diaspora and up-to-date information on life in Spain as of December 2025.