What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Kazakhstan. They wrote...
"Expats in Kazakhstan often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the country's traditional values and customs can be difficult to adjust to, as they are quite different from those of many Western countries. Furthermore, the country's bureaucracy and paperwork can be a source of frustration for expats, as it can be difficult to navigate. Finally, the country's climate can be a challenge for expats, as it can be quite extreme, with hot summers and cold winters," remarked another expat who made the move to Kazakhstan.
"The language barrier and being one of the few westerners to live in the city . Also, it is difficult to not be able to get a lot of the regular groceries," explained one expat living in Semey, Kazakhstan.

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world. Presently the AGS Group has over 141 locations in more than 95 countries and has one of the largest networks in the international removals industry. We relocate 85,000 families every year. Free moving quote!
Get a Quote
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Kazakhstan?
- How do I meet people in Kazakhstan?
- What is life like in Kazakhstan?
- Is there a lot of crime in Kazakhstan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Kazakhstan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Kazakhstan like?
- Is the cost of living in Kazakhstan high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Kazakhstan?
- What are healthcare services like in Kazakhstan?
- Is the cost of living in Kazakhstan high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Kazakhstan?
- What is the weather like in Kazakhstan?
- Are there good restaurants in Kazakhstan?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Kazakhstan?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Kazakhstan?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kazakhstan?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Kazakhstan?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Kazakhstan?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Kazakhstan, newcomers to Kazakhstan would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.