Banking & Finance
- See the data table below for detailed numbers
- Check the FAQ section for common expat questions
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Kazakhstan's banking landscape has some surprises for newcomers. Here's what you need to know before you arrive.
Banking Overview in Kazakhstan
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency | Kazakhstani tenge (KZT) ₸ |
| Bank Account for Foreigners | May be possible — confirm with the bank |
| Access Difficulty | Medium |
| Remote Opening | No |
| Wise Available | No |
| N26 Available | No |
Opening a Bank Account in Kazakhstan
Foreign nationals may be able to open a bank account in Kazakhstan, but we have not independently verified this — confirm the current rules directly with the bank, in writing, before you rely on it. The process difficulty is rated as medium, which means you should expect some bureaucracy and possibly language barriers.
Required Documents
- Valid passport or national ID
- Proof of address / residence registration
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Tax identification number (if available)
- Initial deposit (amount varies by bank)
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Banks in Kazakhstan — remote & non-resident opening
Named banks operating in Kazakhstan, and what our automated research found about non-resident remote account opening (no branch visit required). This has not been verified by a human reviewer — use it as a starting point and confirm directly with the bank.
| Bank | Remote opening | Confidence | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank CenterCredit | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Medium | Opens non-resident accounts but requires in-person KYC and IIN; no online or video self-onboarding. |
| ForteBank | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Non-resident accounts only via branch with account holder present; online opening not available. |
| Halyk Bank | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Unrated | — |
| Kaspi Bank | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Unrated | — |
Last checked 2026-06-22 · Source: official bank websites, gathered via automated research that has not been reviewed by our founder — treat every row as a lead, not a verified fact, and confirm directly with the bank before you rely on it. Research confidence: High = clear supporting evidence found · Medium = partial or indirect evidence · Low = weak or conflicting evidence · Unrated = no confidence assessment recorded (unreviewed automated research).
Digital Banking Options
Wise (TransferWise)
Wise has limited availability in Kazakhstan. While you may be able to send money to Kazakhstan, full local account features may not be available. Check their website for the latest on Kazakhstan-specific services.
N26
We have no record of N26 operating in Kazakhstan — check N26's own country list, as their coverage changes. You may need to consider local digital bank alternatives or traditional banks.
International Transfers
When transferring money to or from Kazakhstan, consider these factors:
- Exchange rate: The currency is KZT. Always compare the offered rate with the mid-market rate.
- Transfer fees: Transfer fees vary — compare providers like Wise for the best rates.
- Transfer speed: Bank-to-bank (SWIFT) transfers take 2-5 business days. Digital services often complete within 1-2 days.
- Regular transfers: If sending money home regularly, set up a recurring transfer to lock in better rates.
Salary and Everyday Banking
The average salary in Kazakhstan is approximately €688 per month. Your employer will typically require a local bank account for salary deposits. Most banks offer:
- Debit card (Visa or Mastercard)
- Online banking portal and mobile app
- Direct debit setup for rent and utilities
- ATM withdrawals (check fee policies)
Tips for Expats
- Open your account early: Visit a bank branch within your first week. Having a local account speeds up everything from rent to mobile contracts.
- Get a local phone number first: Most banks require a local mobile number for SMS verification. Set this up before visiting the branch.
- Use a multi-currency card: A multi-currency travel card (Wise, Revolut) saves you exchange fees during the transition period.
- Understand tax reporting: Bank interest may be taxable. Ask your bank about withholding tax and whether they report to foreign tax authorities.
- Learn key banking terms: A few words in the local language go a long way at the bank counter and when reading statements.
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Get Your Free VerdictFrequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a bank account in Kazakhstan?
Opening a bank account in Kazakhstan typically takes 1-3 weeks depending on documentation readiness and the bank chosen. Digital banks may be faster.
Can I open a bank account remotely before moving to Kazakhstan?
Remote account opening is generally not available in Kazakhstan. You will likely need to visit a branch in person with your documents.
What is the local currency in Kazakhstan?
The local currency in Kazakhstan is Kazakhstani tenge (KZT), represented by the symbol ₸. Most payments can be made by card, though cash may still be important in some contexts.
Can I open a bank account in Kazakhstan as a foreigner?
Yes, foreigners can open bank accounts in Kazakhstan. The difficulty level is rated as medium. You will typically need your passport, proof of address (registration), and sometimes a residence permit.
Do I need a residence permit to open a bank account in Kazakhstan?
Many banks in Kazakhstan require a residence permit or proof of address before opening an account. Requirements vary between banks, so shop around.
Official sources
- A B12-1 tourist visa (Neo Nomad Visa) — egov.kz — last re-checked 2026-06-21
Figures are compiled from official government sources and re-checked on a rolling basis. Always confirm on the official page before applying.
Visa rules change every month.
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About the author
António Mira is the founder of whereTOemigrate. For over a decade he has worked at the intersection of Portuguese real estate and overseas business, helping international clients navigate the cross-border decisions that come with relocating. He sits on the board of CCIAP (Portuguese-Arab Chamber of Commerce), the Portuguese-Saudi Business Council, and the Portugal-Hong Kong Business Association — always with one focus: enabling overseas business and human mobility into and out of Portugal.
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