Kazakhstan has restricted the rules for issuing bank cards to Russians.

In Kazakhstan, new rules have been introduced for issuing bank cards for Russians and other non-residents. According to the new rules, cards for this category of persons will have a validity period limited to 12 months. However, this limitation does not apply to cards for business entities, diplomatic workers, and investors.

Additionally, there is a restriction on the number of cards that non-residents can issue. Previously, the limit was up to 10 cards per client, but this restriction has now been reduced.

Moreover, banks are required to implement systems for the automatic detection of suspicious transactions related to the legalization of criminal proceeds and the financing of terrorism. Stricter monitoring requirements have also been established for individuals who have five or more bank cards.

The number of issued bank cards in neighboring countries of Russia has increased following the exit of Visa and Mastercard from the market due to 'card tourism' by Russians. One of the popular destinations has become Kazakhstan, where it is necessary to have an individual identification number (IIN) to obtain a card.

However, starting from 2025, Kazakhstan ceased issuing IINs for foreign citizens through its diplomatic missions. Now, this number can only be obtained in person at population service centers in Kazakhstan.

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