Money & duty free for Kyrgyzstan
Exchange rates:
Kyrgyz SomC$1 = лв51.71
€1 = лв72.44
£1 = лв86.18
US$1 = лв69.37
Currency & Money
Kyrgyz Som (KGS; symbol сом or KGS) = 100 tyin. Banknotes are in denominations of KGS 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of KGS 1, 3, 5 and 10, and 10 and 50 tyin (though tyin coins are rarely used in everyday transactions).
Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants and shops in Bishkek and other major towns, particularly Visa and Mastercard. Outside urban centres, card acceptance is limited, and many businesses operate on a cash-only basis.
Travellers should not rely solely on cards when travelling beyond cities or tourist hubs. Informing your bank before travel is advisable to avoid transactions being blocked.
ATMs are widely available in Bishkek, Osh and other major towns and generally accept international debit and credit cards. Withdrawals are typically issued in Kyrgyz som, though some ATMs may also dispense US dollars.
Outside cities, ATMs can be scarce or unreliable, so travellers should carry sufficient cash when heading into rural or mountainous areas. Daily withdrawal limits may apply depending on the bank.
Travellers entering or leaving Kyrgyzstan with cash amounts exceeding the equivalent of US$10,000 must declare it to customs.
Licensed currency exchange offices are common in cities and towns and usually offer competitive rates. Banks and exchange bureaux readily exchange US dollars and euros, which are the easiest foreign currencies to convert.
Street money changers should be avoided, as scams and counterfeit notes are a risk. Travellers should keep exchange receipts, as they may be required when reconverting money on departure.
Kyrgyzstan duty free
The following goods may be imported into Kyrgyzstan by travellers aged 18 and over without incurring customs duty:
• 1,000 cigarettes or 1,000g of tobacco.
• 1.5L of spirits and 2L of wine.
Prohibited and restricted imports into Kyrgyzstan include narcotic drugs, weapons, ammunition, and materials in any form that are deemed to undermine the constitutional or state system of the country. Fruit, vegetables, berries and other plant products may not be brought in without appropriate authorisation. Certain strong or prescription medicines must have a valid doctor's prescription. This list is not exhaustive, and travellers are advised to consult official customs authorities or their airline before travel for the most up-to-date regulations.
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