Currency & Payment

Kazakhstan uses the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT, ₸), divided into 100 tiyn. Cash is widely used, but cards and mobile payments are very common in cities. In smaller towns and rural areas, cash is still king, so carry some tenge when you leave the big cities.

Exchange money at banks or exchange offices (obmen valyut / обмен валют), which are common in cities. US dollars and euros are the easiest currencies to change and usually get good rates. Compare rates and avoid exchanging at airports where rates can be poorer. Bring clean, undamaged notes, as worn bills may be refused.

Cards are widely accepted in cities such as Almaty and Astana, and contactless payment is common. Visa and Mastercard are the most useful networks. In rural areas, small shops, markets and taxis often prefer or require cash, so a working card plus some tenge is the safest combination.

ATMs are widespread in cities and towns, so withdrawing tenge is easy. Use ATMs attached to banks where possible. Watch out for foreign-card fees, and always decline home-currency conversion (DCC) to get the better rate. In remote areas ATMs are scarce, so withdraw enough cash before you head out.

Kaspi.kz is by far the most widespread payment app in Kazakhstan, used everywhere for QR payments and transfers. However, it generally requires a local bank account, so most tourists cannot use it and rely on cards and cash instead. International apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay work with your own contactless card in many city venues.

Tipping is not obligatory in Kazakhstan, but around 10% is appreciated at upmarket restaurants for good service. In cities, some places already add a service charge to the bill, so check before adding more. Rounding up taxi fares or leaving small change is a common, low-key way to show thanks.

Kazakhstan is generally affordable for travellers compared with Western Europe. Almaty and Astana are the most expensive cities, while rural areas and smaller towns are cheaper. Local markets, street food and domestic transport offer good value, though imported goods and upscale venues can be pricey. Prices are shown in tenge.

A VAT refund scheme for tourists in Kazakhstan is limited and still developing, so do not count on it. Where any refund is offered, it typically applies only at participating stores with a minimum spend, and you must keep receipts and present goods and documents at departure. Check the current rules with official sources before relying on a refund.