Halkbank
A large Turkmen joint-stock commercial bank that issues Altyn Asyr cards and offers internet banking, a mobile banking app and online payments, useful for residents who hold a local account and want to pay bills and services without cash.
About Halkbank
Halkbank traces its roots to the first savings bank opened in Turkmenistan in 1923, became the Savings Bank of Turkmenistan in 1993 and took the name Halkbank in 2001. It serves individuals, companies and private entrepreneurs, and its website says it also serves foreign clients. According to Central Bank data reported by Trend, Halkbank had about 1.21 million active cards on 1 August 2026 and handled 88% of e-commerce payment volume in the country in January to July 2026. The processing centre of the national Altyn Asyr card system is located within Halkbank.
Key Features
- Mobile Banking: Android and iOS apps to check balances and payment history, pay loans and top up phone, home internet and IP-TV accounts.
- Internet Banking: Manage accounts and cards online, including unblocking a card.
- Payments: The bank lists payments for utilities such as heating, electricity, water and rent, fines, vehicle fees, medical insurance and transport cards.
- SMS Card Control: Check a card balance or block a card by sending an SMS command to the bank's short number.
How to Get Started
- Visit a Halkbank branch with your passport and documents to open an account and get an Altyn Asyr card.
- Download the Halkbank mobile banking app for Android or iOS from the link on the bank's website.
- Activate internet or mobile banking with the details provided by the bank.
- Use the app or website to check your balance and pay for services.
The apps and online services work with a Halkbank account and card, so they are meant for residents rather than short-term visitors. Cash is still widely used in Turkmenistan, and travel guides report that foreign Visa and Mastercard cards work mainly for cash withdrawals at the State Bank for Foreign Economic Affairs, so visitors should not rely on paying by card. Tariffs and the list of payable services change, so check the current terms on the bank's website or at a branch.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Does Halkbank work with a foreign bank card in Turkmenistan? Not reliably — a foreign card may be declined. Check the notice above, or plan to use a local payment method.
Is Halkbank available in English? Yes, Halkbank has an English-language interface.
Do I need a local phone number to use Halkbank? Yes, Halkbank requires a local phone number to register.
Do I need local ID or residency for Halkbank? Yes, Halkbank requires local ID or residency status.