Currency and Exchange

Tenge is the national currency of Kazakhstan and the only accepted method of cash payment. Below you can find essential information on basic currency operations in Kazakhstan.

DENOMINATIONS:

NOTE: KZT 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500 and 200.
COIN: KZT 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1.

CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS AND ATMS:

Credit cards issued by local and international banks are widely used in Kazakhstan. They are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and trading outlets across the country. Stand-alone ATMs can be found on many major streets. However, all shopping and business centers are equipped with ATMs, almost all of which can be operated in English. The English option appears only after inserting one's card.  

CURRENCY EXCHANGE:

Exchange rates for major currencies at all currency exchange offices are, for the most part, same. US dollars, Pound Sterling, Euros, Swiss Franc, Russian Rubles and Chinese Yuan can be exchanged. Please note that currency exchange rates in local bank branches, airports, and train and bus stations are usually less favorable.    

TRAVELLER'S CHEQUES:

No restrictions apply to the use of traveller’s cheques. A declaration is not required.

BANKING HOURS:

Business hours are usually from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Saturdays and Sundays are public holidays. However, some branch offices of major banks in large shopping centers operate seven days a week.

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS:

You  can import as much cash as you  want. However, certain restrictions apply to currency exports from Kazakhstan. US $10,000 or its equivalent is the maximum amount of cash which can be freely exported from Kazakhstan. For purchases exceeding US$10,000 tariffs apply, and you must declare any cash you have exceeding US $3000.