Digital Nomad Visa Requirements of Kyrgyz Republic and Malaysia

About Kyrgyz Republic

Kyrgyz Republic, also known as Kyrgyzstan, is an emerging digital nomad destination. Its picturesque landscapes and mountainous terrain make this Central Asian country a popular hub for adventure seekers. Kyrgyzstan offers a unique culture, inviting hospitality, and a relatively affordable cost of living. Recently, the country introduced a “Digital Nomad” pilot project, making it even more attractive for remote workers.

Digital Nomad Visa Program

The “Digital Nomad” status is available to foreign nationals who engage in specific professional activities related to information technology, software development, animation, and media arts. It allows digital nomads to stay in the country for up to two years, with an option to extend the stay for an additional two years. Below are the requirements to apply for a Kyrgyz Republic Digital Nomad Visa:

• Valid passport from an eligible foreign state
• Completed application
• Digital photo of the applicant's face
• Income statement or proof of employment

The required income level is not specified, and there is no need to prove health insurance or a clean criminal record. However, the applicant must be based out of a non-Kyrgyzstani address, and the company they work for must not be based in the Kyrgyz Republic. The pilot project “Digital Nomad” is valid until December 31, 2023.

About Malaysia

Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia, is a melting pot of cultures, a diverse environment, and a digital nomad hotspot. Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, offers a high quality of life with modern infrastructure and a dynamic startup ecosystem. The country recently introduced a new visa program for remote workers, entitled the DE Rantau Nomad Pass under DE Rantau Program.

DE Rantau Nomad Pass under DE Rantau Program

The DE Rantau Nomad Pass is aimed at remote workers in Information Technology, Digital Content Creation and Development, or Digital Marketing. Below are the DE Rantau Nomad Pass requirements to work remotely in Malaysia:

• A valid passport with a minimum validity of 14 months at the time of application
• A copy of Certificate of Good Conduct (COGC)
• The minimum income required would be above US$24,000 annually or MYR36,000 annually
• Proof of an active employment contract with a company outside Malaysia
• For digital freelancers, proof of contracts or invoices and orders from clients mentioning the duration and value of the contract

The costs for the DE Rantau Nomad Pass include an application fee for individual and dependents. The Immigration Pass Fee for each applicant includes an option for a 3-month or 1-year stay, renewable for an additional 12 months. Multiple entry visa fee varies by country. The holder of this Pass will also enjoy multiple entry rights for the validity duration of Pass. Malaysian does not require a work pass.

Conclusion

The digital nomad lifestyle is booming across the globe, with countries developing programs specifically tailored towards remote workers. Kyrgyz Republic and Malaysia offer unique experiences, with broad requirements for digital nomads to live and work legally. If you're looking to experience new cultures, landscapes, and lifestyles, both Kyrgyz Republic and Malaysia are enticing options for remote work.