For payments, international services, and personal needs, Russian citizens can open a debit card at Kazakhstani banks (popular options include Freedom Bank, Kaspi Bank, Bank CenterCredit, and ForteBank). The process is strictly regulated by financial monitoring rules.
1. A package of documents for the bank
To open a personal account, a non-resident must provide:
- A foreign passport (required with a Border Service stamp confirming entry into the Republic of Kazakhstan). Bank accounts cannot be opened using a Russian internal passport.
- Received IIN (printed registration certificate from the Public Service Center).
- Kazakhstani phone number (officially registered to your IIN with a mobile operator).
- A document confirming legal stay in the country (notification of immigrant arrival/temporary registration certificate issued by a hotel or landlord, or an employment contract/temporary residence permit).
2. Critical Rule: The card is valid for 1 year
In accordance with the resolution of the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan, strict restrictions have been introduced for foreign citizens without a residence permit since 2025:
- Time limit: The maximum validity period of any payment cards for non-resident individuals is exactly 12 months (1 year).
- In-person reissue: After one year, the card is automatically blocked. To continue using it, non-residents must personally visit a bank branch in Kazakhstan, re-verify (compliance), and request a reissue. Remote renewal is not possible.
- Quantity limits: One foreign client can open no more than 5 payment cards within one bank.
3. The process of obtaining
- Visit the bank: With your completed documents, you visit a physical branch of your chosen bank in person. Remote account opening by proxy is strictly prohibited.
- Compliance check: The bank sends your data for an internal security check (this takes from 15 minutes to several days, depending on the bank).
- Card issuance:
- At Kaspi Bank, a personalized card is printed right in front of you at a special card machine in just 5 minutes.
- At other banks, issuing a physical card can take from 1 to 10 business days (during this time, a virtual card is usually available in the app).
Need a bank card in Kazakhstan?
If you're a Russian citizen planning to open a personal bank card in Kazakhstan, we'll help you navigate the bank's requirements and prepare the necessary documents.
EGSAT provides assistance to foreigners in Kazakhstan, including obtaining an Individual Identification Number (IIN), opening a company, banking, accounting, and legal support.
Submit a request – we will consult on your situation and suggest which option is right for you.
Find out more about EGSAT services on the main page .
