Banking in Kazakhstan

Best banks in Kazakhstan for expats & digital nomads

Opening a bank account is one of the first things you do after moving to Kazakhstan. Here are the accounts that work for newcomers and non-residents, plus the fintech we would set up before you fly.

How to open a bank account in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan has a Georgia-style draw for nomads and relocants but is a notch stricter: foreigners generally need an Individual Identification Number (IIN) and must appear in person; a residence permit or local proof of address materially eases the process (and is now required for cards at some banks such as Halyk). Rules tightened again from January 2026, adding declarations about the account's intended use.

Top banks in Kazakhstan

Halyk Bank

traditional

Largest bank, full-service and multi-currency

Country's biggest bank with the densest network; for non-residents, card issuance now generally requires a residence permit.

Kaspi Bank

digital

Everyday spending super-app

Dominant mass-market super-app (Kaspi Gold card, QR payments); EAEU citizens and permit-holders qualify most easily, others need an IIN and in-person steps with limited card validity.

Bank CenterCredit (BCC)

traditional

Non-resident and AIFC-linked banking

Opens non-resident accounts (branch KYC + IIN required) and runs a branch inside the Astana International Financial Centre for English-language service.

ForteBank

traditional

FX and multi-currency accounts

Universal bank with a strong FX desk; non-resident accounts opened in branch with the holder present.

Freedom Bank Kazakhstan

digital

Tech-forward digital onboarding

Part of the Freedom Holding fintech group; more digital onboarding steps than legacy banks.

Jusan Bank

digital

Digital-first retail banking

App-led bank offering reasonable onboarding for non-resident LLPs and individuals.

International accounts & neobanks

Wise

Kazakhstan is not on Wise's hold-a-balance list; Wise can send money to Kazakh bank accounts but residents cannot hold a KZT balance with Wise.

Payoneer

Available to Kazakhstan-based users to receive international payments and withdraw to a local bank.

Availability changes; confirm on each provider's site.

Next steps in Kazakhstan

See the full Kazakhstan tax, cost and visa profile, or compare Kazakhstan with other destinations. Not sure where to go yet? Take the finder quiz.