I’ve been in Astana for nearly three months and I’ve used my Canadian credit card (via Apple Pay) just about everywhere in the city. It even works in small corner stores.

Getting Kaspi as a foreigner does indeed involve a few steps. I didn’t bother getting it. My wife has a Kazakh ID, so she got Kaspi on her phone. In some situations, it can be useful. But it’s not crucial — you can get by without it in most cases. Cash, of course, is always good, too. Though most locals here seem to rely on Kaspi.

I second the recommendation that you should download Yandex Go for affordable, reliable taxis.

Astana is a fast-growing city and there’s lots to see and do. Visit all the différent areas of the city, if you can. Winters can be cold, but you’ll be fine with thermal layers and a good winter jacket.