A single interbank QR code for paying for purchases and services became available to customers of some banks in Kazakhstan on 17 July. The official launch of the service is scheduled for 19 July, but some banks have already enabled early access.
WHAT HAS CHANGED FOR USERS
The single QR code allows payments for purchases via any bank's app, provided the retailer is connected to the new system.
As reported by the Deputy Chairman of the National Bank, Binur Zhalenov, most banks have already opened the service to all customers.
It is noted that the unified system enables payments via the app of any connected bank, without needing to find a terminal that supports a specific banking service.
HOW THE SINGLE QR CODE WORKS
The customer simply opens their bank's app, scans the QR code on the terminal, and confirms payment. No separate app is required.
For businesses, there is no need to install new terminals or additional equipment. The service operates on the existing payment infrastructure.
WHAT THE NATIONAL BANK REPORTED
The Chairman of the National Bank, Timur Suleimenov, explained that previously each bank developed its own QR service, and within the framework of the new project, these have been merged into a single system.
According to him, to implement the project, second-tier banks had to modernise their technical systems to ensure service compatibility and data transmission security. He also noted that the development of the national digital financial infrastructure contributes to building a modern digital state.
DO YOU NEED TO UPDATE YOUR BANKING APP
Some users may need to update their bank's app. Each bank will inform its customers individually about how to activate the service.
In some cases, the update will install automatically; in others, it will need to be downloaded manually via the app store.
CONTEXT
The launch of the single QR code has been discussed in the country for some time. In March 2026, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev criticised the largest banks for delaying the introduction of interbank QR payments.
The head of state stated that the obligation to connect to the digital financial infrastructure created by the National Bank is enshrined in law. According to him, interbank QR payments, transfers, and settlements using the digital tenge reduce costs by shortening the chain of payment intermediaries.
At that time, 15 banks had signed the agreement. However, only 6 of them were actually providing the service: Halyk Bank, Bank CenterCredit, Freedom Bank, Home Credit Bank, Altyn Bank, and Bank RBK.
From July 2026, ignoring the system will be considered a violation of the Law on Payments. Earlier, Timur Suleimenov announced the system's launch date.
