Travel to Kazakhstan to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Image  Kazakhstan

Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Kazakhstan?

  • Kazakhstan, Central Asia's largest country, offers travelers a unique blend of modern cities and pristine nature. From the futuristic architecture in Nur-Sultan to the vast steppes and rugged mountains, the country is perfect for adventurous backpackers. You can trek through the Altai Mountains, explore the sand dunes of the Zhungarian Alps, or explore the vast Kazakh steppes. The country remains relatively untouched by tourism, making it a pretty authentic experience.
  • Activity spotting: discover singing dunes and desert landscapes in Altyn Emel National Park; trek in the Tian Shan Mountains; visit Charyn Canyon, 
  • Animal spotting: snow leopards, Argali sheep, Siberian ibexes, eagles, falcons, wild camels, gazelles. 
  • Food spotting: beshbarmak (stewed read with noodles), kumis (fermented horse milk), shashlik (marinated meat), samsa (pastries), manty (steamed dough balls), boorsok (fried bread), plov!

Studying in Kazakhstan?

  • Kazakhstan offers excellent study opportunities with universities attracting international students. There are many fields of study to choose from and the country offers unique opportunities to learn more about the nature, culture and history of the region. 
  • Some popular studies include economics & business administration, law, tourism, engineering and computer science. 
  • Language: the language of instruction is mostly Kazakh and Russian, but English-language programs are also available.
  • Study cities: Almaty, Astana, Shymkent, Karagandy. 

Internship in Kazakhstan?

  • There are several internship opportunities in Kazakhstan for foreigners. Consider internships in (English) education or at (international) companies, as well as NGOs and local businesses. Popular sectors are the oil & gas industry, mining, education and development projects. 
  • Competencies: intercultural communication, project management, sector-specific skills, Russian and Kazakh language skills. 

Volunteering in Kazakhstan?

  • In Kazakhstan, you will find many volunteering options. The government even encourages volunteering by foreigners. There are many options at board and lodging with individuals. You can also work in environmental protection, nature education, tree planting, youth development, art education and therapy, helping the less fortunate, teaching English, and even ski resorts. 

Working in Kazakhstan?

  • Most expats work in the capital cities of Almaty and Nur-Sultan, with jobs in mining, oil industry, education, and international trade. Foreigners can also find work as English teachers or in specialized sectors such as IT and engineering. 
  • Knowledge of Kazakh or Russian is often an advantage.
  • Work culture: Kazakhstan's work culture is strongly influenced by Soviet history and is quite formal, especially in the larger companies and government institutions. Hierarchy is important, and great value is placed on respect for authority and clear hierarchical structures. Business manners tend to be polite and formal, and you are expected to arrive on time for meetings and appointments.

Working as a digital nomad in Kazakhstan?

  • Kazakhstan is not a mainstream destination for digital nomads, but it offers an interesting option for those looking for new experiences. Almaty has a number of coworking spaces and offers high-speed Internet connections. The low cost of living and proximity to nature make it an attractive destination for remote workers who enjoy adventurous weekends in the mountains.
  • Favorite locations: Almaty, Nur-Sultan (Astana).

Living in Kazakhstan?

  • As an expat in Kazakhstan, you live in a country that is developing rapidly, with modern amenities in the major cities. Almaty and Nur-Sultan offer a good quality of life, with Western supermarkets, international schools, and cultural events.
  • Outside the cities, life is simpler, but the hospitality of the locals makes it a unique experience. 
  • Life is quite safe, although due to the difference between rich and poor, robberies and theft sometimes take place. This happens especially in the cities. 
  • For families with children, there are several private schools, but be sure to sign your children up for these on time!  
  • The people are very hospitable, allowing you to have unique experiences with the locals. 
  • The driving style is quite anarchic, so beware! 
  • Climate: There are an awful lot of differences in climate depending on where you live. The country ranges from the lowest point of the former Soviet Union to a peak of 7000m. In the summers, it can get as high as 40°C, but then again -40°C in the winter. The capital is the third coldest capital in the world... So keep this in mind! 
  • Culture: from expensive SUVs in the cities, to horses on the plains. It shows the difference in culture and development in this gigantic country. The culture has many superstitions and rules, such as not being disrespectful with food, not wearing your shoes inside, not blowing your nose in public etc. 
  • Language: it is helpful to learn Kazakh or Russian, especially if you live outside the big cities.
  • Health insurance: many expats leave abroad for serious medical care. So it is important to make sure you have your own well-covered health insurance.
Kazakhstan Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Kazakhstan Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Kazakhstan on WorldSupporter

How does health care work in Kazakhstan, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does health care work in Kazakhstan, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the health and healthcare system work in Kazakhstan?

  • In Kazakhstan, everyone is entitled to medical care. There is also a social care system, the CSHI, which every permanent resident must participate in. 
  • Kazakhstan offers a mixed picture when it comes to health care. Although the system is developing, quality often falls short of Western standards. 
  • Good news is that certain basic emergency care is free, even for foreigners! However, this only covers emergency medical care and, for example, treatment of diseases that could be a danger to others (measles, chicken pox, typhoid, etc).
  • You can find some good clinics and hospitals only in a few big cities. In other cities and remote areas, health care is often not of good quality. 
  • It can be difficult to find a doctor who speaks English. You may want to contact your insurance or embassy for advice. 
  • For critical illness, it may be necessary to evacuate and seek care in another country. So it is important that your insurance covers this. 

How does the public health care system work in Kazakhstan?

  • Public health care in Kazakhstan is funded by a national health care system, and citizens and residents have access to a wide range of services. For expats, access to public health care is possible, but not common.
  • Public hospitals often have outdated equipment, limited resources and a lack of English-speaking staff.
  • For residents, care is often free or heavily subsidized. Emigrants without local health insurance usually pay out of pocket, but costs are relatively low.

How does the private health care system work in Kazakhstan?

  • Private clinics and hospitals, especially in cities such as Nur-Sultan and Almaty, offer better facilities and usually do offer English-speaking doctors.
  • These healthcare facilities are more modern and better equipped than public hospitals, and doctors have often studied abroad.
  • Private care is more expensive, but still affordable compared to Western countries.

How is the GP arranged in Kazakhstan?

  • To find a family doctor, it is best to go to private clinics. 

How is the dentist arranged in Kazakhstan?

  • Dental care is available through both public and private clinics. Expats prefer private practices because of hygiene and modern equipment.
  • Dentists in cities offer services of reasonable to high quality, and some are English-speaking. 
  • Dental care is affordable, but quality varies greatly outside major cities. Make sure you are properly insured and check coverage with your health insurance. 

How is the prenatal care and pregnancy arranged in Kazakhstan?

  • Private clinics are recommended for prenatal care because of better hygiene and services.
  • Prenatal care in Kazakhstan is similar to prenatal care in Western countries. 
  • Many women choose to give birth in private hospitals. Public hospitals have less modern facilities.
  • Cesarean sections are fairly common in Kazakhstan, with similar or higher numbers than in Western countries. 
  • With high-risk pregnancies, it is safest to give birth in Almaty or Nur-Sultan. 

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Kazakhstan?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Kazakhstan?

  • Kazakhstan is generally safe, but petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
  • It is best not to walk around alone after dark, as you risk being robbed. There have also been cases of “drink spiking” at places of entertainment, where and drugs are put in a drink. 
  • Police in Kazakhstan are known to be corrupt at times. 
  • Avoid discussions about politics or ethnic tensions.
  • Respect local traditions and dress conservatively in religious areas.
  • Border areas with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan can be unstable.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Kazakhstan?

  • Tap water is usually not safe to drink. Use bottled water or a water filter.
  • Essential medicines are often available in cities, but it is wise to carry a supply. 
  • Kazakhstan has quite high numbers of tuberculosis cases. This is especially a risk with longer stays and a lot of contact with locals. 
  • HIV/Aids is common, be aware of this if you may be at risk. 

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Kazakhstan?

  • Roads are reasonable in cities, but in rural areas they can be poorly maintained.
  • Buses, minivans and cabs are the most commonly used options, but comfort and safety vary.
  • Driving a car is possible, but be prepared for poor road maintenance and sometimes chaotic driving. Winter conditions can make driving more difficult. 

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Kazakhstan?

  • Is the trip to Kazakhstan and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Kazakhstan if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Because care may not be of sufficient quality and medical evacuation may be necessary, and because private care can still be quite pricey, it is wise to take out international insurance. 
  • Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Kazakhstan: Updates & Travel

Kazakhstan: Updates & Travel

Travel in Kazakhstan?

  • Central Asia is becoming increasingly popular among adventure travel enthusiasts. Travel in Central Asia, and thus Kazakhstan, is relatively easy because it is possible to travel through it by train. Kazakhstan lies on the original Silk Road, and cultural influences of this can still be found. Almaty, the former Alma Ata, is an amazingly modern city, as is the capital Astana (briefly called Nur-Sultan between 2019 and 2022) for a country with otherwise mostly beautiful natural areas. Discover the endless steppes, rugged deserts and valleys with wild tulips.

Updates Kazakhstan

  • More about Kazakhstan, updates and contributions, see the link below.
Kazakhstan: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and posibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

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Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is insurance for traveling abroad?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back home urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies on domestic trips.
  • With annual travel insurance or multi-trip travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance or single-trip travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are abroad.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you plan to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at cost price of your home country.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries that you are going to visit.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your travels.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for paid work, voluntary work or an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when working abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your national health insurance coverage may expire. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During your work, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage.

What is important to insure when you are going to work abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why Insurances through JoHo

  • Specialized: in emigration, work, internships, study and travel abroad.

  • Service: JoHo offers multiple travel insurances by multiple companies. Thanks to JoHo's extensive experience, it can offer support in case of problems with insurers, as well as advice and fast and personal handling.

  • Safe: JoHo is recognized as a trustworthy intermediary for insurances.

  • Social: by purchasing an insurance through JoHo you provide a talented student in The Philippines with health insurance

Why Should You Take Out A Travel Insurance?

  • The chance of getting injured or ill is generally higher than when you would have stayed at home. The medical care you will need can be very expensive, even more so if you are treated in a private clinic.

  • If you have to fly back because of family circumstances, the flights might be more expensive than your original flight because you have to fly on short notice.

  • You might have to deal with the damage, loss or theft of your luggage.

  • In case of emergency it can be difficult to figure out what to do. A good travel insurance will have an assistance team on standby for you 24/7 and will be able to tell you what steps to take.

Why Should You Specifically Take Out A Travel Insurance For A Long Trip Abroad?

  • Often regular travel or health insurances only cover trips for a maximum number of days (for example 60, 90 or 180 days).

  • Depending on your home country, your health insurance might not offer any coverage for treatment abroad.

  • During a long trip you might consider specific activities, like paid work or volunteering. Regular travel insurances often don’t cover these kind of activities. The same goes for adventurous/ hazardous sports like skydiving, scuba-diving and bungee jumping.

More on why to use JoHo

  • JoHo is one of the few organizations where you can directly purchase a comprehensive range of foreign insurances from a variety of insurers. As with our other products and services, we believe that you should be able to choose between the best, the most cost effective and the most specialized insurance.

  • JoHo offers various possibilities from combining insurances to assisting in transferring from one insurer to another.

  • When you purchase an insurance policy through JoHo, you will not pay more than if you had purchased it directly from the insurer. Sometimes (through special collective agreements) you will even pay less.

  • JoHo offers support with problems that may arise with the insurer. Sometimes disagreement with claims, cancellation notice or insurance premiums can occur. In this situation it helps if you have the assistance of an organization who has an established relationship with the insurer.

 

Read more about JoHo and JoHo Insurances

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Safety and insurances in Kazakhstan

How does health care work in Kazakhstan, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does health care work in Kazakhstan, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the health and healthcare system work in Kazakhstan?

  • In Kazakhstan, everyone is entitled to medical care. There is also a social care system, the CSHI, which every permanent resident must participate in. 
  • Kazakhstan offers a mixed picture when it comes to health care. Although the system is developing, quality often falls short of Western standards. 
  • Good news is that certain basic emergency care is free, even for foreigners! However, this only covers emergency medical care and, for example, treatment of diseases that could be a danger to others (measles, chicken pox, typhoid, etc).
  • You can find some good clinics and hospitals only in a few big cities. In other cities and remote areas, health care is often not of good quality. 
  • It can be difficult to find a doctor who speaks English. You may want to contact your insurance or embassy for advice. 
  • For critical illness, it may be necessary to evacuate and seek care in another country. So it is important that your insurance covers this. 

How does the public health care system work in Kazakhstan?

  • Public health care in Kazakhstan is funded by a national health care system, and citizens and residents have access to a wide range of services. For expats, access to public health care is possible, but not common.
  • Public hospitals often have outdated equipment, limited resources and a lack of English-speaking staff.
  • For residents, care is often free or heavily subsidized. Emigrants without local health insurance usually pay out of pocket, but costs are relatively low.

How does the private health care system work in Kazakhstan?

  • Private clinics and hospitals, especially in cities such as Nur-Sultan and Almaty, offer better facilities and usually do offer English-speaking doctors.
  • These healthcare facilities are more modern and better equipped than public hospitals, and doctors have often studied abroad.
  • Private care is more expensive, but still affordable compared to Western countries.

How is the GP arranged in Kazakhstan?

  • To find a family doctor, it is best to go to private clinics. 

How is the dentist arranged in Kazakhstan?

  • Dental care is available through both public and private clinics. Expats prefer private practices because of hygiene and modern equipment.
  • Dentists in cities offer services of reasonable to high quality, and some are English-speaking. 
  • Dental care is affordable, but quality varies greatly outside major cities. Make sure you are properly insured and check coverage with your health insurance. 

How is the prenatal care and pregnancy arranged in Kazakhstan?

  • Private clinics are recommended for prenatal care because of better hygiene and services.
  • Prenatal care in Kazakhstan is similar to prenatal care in Western countries. 
  • Many women choose to give birth in private hospitals. Public hospitals have less modern facilities.
  • Cesarean sections are fairly common in Kazakhstan, with similar or higher numbers than in Western countries. 
  • With high-risk pregnancies, it is safest to give birth in Almaty or Nur-Sultan. 

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Kazakhstan?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Kazakhstan?

  • Kazakhstan is generally safe, but petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
  • It is best not to walk around alone after dark, as you risk being robbed. There have also been cases of “drink spiking” at places of entertainment, where and drugs are put in a drink. 
  • Police in Kazakhstan are known to be corrupt at times. 
  • Avoid discussions about politics or ethnic tensions.
  • Respect local traditions and dress conservatively in religious areas.
  • Border areas with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan can be unstable.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Kazakhstan?

  • Tap water is usually not safe to drink. Use bottled water or a water filter.
  • Essential medicines are often available in cities, but it is wise to carry a supply. 
  • Kazakhstan has quite high numbers of tuberculosis cases. This is especially a risk with longer stays and a lot of contact with locals. 
  • HIV/Aids is common, be aware of this if you may be at risk. 

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Kazakhstan?

  • Roads are reasonable in cities, but in rural areas they can be poorly maintained.
  • Buses, minivans and cabs are the most commonly used options, but comfort and safety vary.
  • Driving a car is possible, but be prepared for poor road maintenance and sometimes chaotic driving. Winter conditions can make driving more difficult. 

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Kazakhstan?

  • Is the trip to Kazakhstan and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Kazakhstan if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Because care may not be of sufficient quality and medical evacuation may be necessary, and because private care can still be quite pricey, it is wise to take out international insurance. 
  • Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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Image Op de lokale universiteit in Almaty kun je terecht in het vakgebied van Architectuur of Engineering. Op deze universiteit vindt ook internationale uitwisseling plaats
Op de lokale universiteit in Almaty kun je terecht in het vakgebied van Architectuur of Engineering. Op deze universiteit vindt ook internationale uitwisseling plaats.
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Use your TEFL certificate to work as an English teacher in various countries. Depending on your education and experience, there are many opportunities available for...
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Ben jij een deskundige in jouw vakgebied? Deel jouw kennis en ervaring met lokale ondernemers en help met de ontwikkeling van het bedrijfsleven in ontwikkelingslanden
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From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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      Image How does health care work in Kazakhstan, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?
      How does the health and healthcare system work in Kazakhstan? How does the public health care system work in Kazakhstan? How does the private health care system work in...
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      Travel in Kazakhstan? Central Asia is becoming increasingly popular among adventure travel enthusiasts. Travel in Central Asia, and thus Kazakhstan, is relatively easy...
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      Kazakhstan: Updates & Travel
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        • Central Asia is becoming increasingly popular among adventure travel enthusiasts. Travel in Central Asia, and thus Kazakhstan, is relatively easy because it is possible to travel through ...

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