Kazakhstani tenge was introduced as the currency in 1993. Robles, US Dollars, and Euro can be exchanged at any bank or exchange office. The currencies of other countries will be more difficult to change. Most places are reluctant to accept coins. The rates are often better in exchange offices and all-day exchanges also offer a «night rate». It is nearly impossible to pay cash in foreign currency.
There are also some restrictions on import and export of money in cash, make sure to check the customs regulations.
Most large shops and hotels accept debit and credit cards of major payment systems. The all-day ATMs are frequent in the cities. Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted and are unlikely to be cashed at local banks.
The currently valid banknotes are the ones issued in 2006 and later. There are banknotes in denominations of 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, 20000 tenge and coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 tenge.
Tipping in Kazakhstan is not so common as in the western countries. There is no commonly accepted tipping norm and usually, the cost of service (in cafes, hotels, travel agencies, etc.) is already included in the final price. Thus, no additional fees are needed. However, you can still leave a tip as a personal reward for the quality service if you want to.
