 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Info
Regions
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Country Guide > Europe > Belarus | |
Currency The Belarusian Rouble (BYR). The Belarusian Rouble was devalued by a factor of 1000 on 1 Jan 2000 (1 new Rouble = 1000 old Roubles). Old banknotes are still in circulation and are worth one-thousandth of their face value. Notes are in denominations of BYR100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5000, 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Currency exchange Foreign currency should only be exchanged at banks, money-changing kiosks and official bureaux de change, and all transactions must be recorded on the currency declaration form which is issued on arrival. It is wise to retain all exchange receipts. It is best to change money in US dollars, Euros or Russian roubles since travellers may encounter difficulties with other currencies. Most aspects of a tour, including accommodation, transport and meals, are paid before departure (through Belintourist or a recognised tour operator), so large amounts of spending money are not necessary. The US dollar or Euros are the preferred foreign currencies. Some foreign currencies may be hard to exchange. Credit & debit cards Major European and international credit cards, including American Express, Cirrus, EC, Electron, EuroCard/MasterCard, Maestro and Visa are accepted in some larger hotels and at foreign currency shops and restaurants. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available. There are a number of ATMs in downtown Minsk. Traveller's cheques May be accepted at larger banks, but cash is easier to exchange. To avoid exchange rate charges, traveller's cheques should be taken in US dollars or Euros. Currency restrictions The import and export of local currency is prohibited. All remaining local currency must be reconverted at the point of departure. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, subject to declaration. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival. Foreign banknotes and coins must be exported within two months of import. Exchange rate indicators The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Belarusian Rouble against Sterling and the US Dollar:
Banking hours Mon-Fri 0900-1700. |