Notes are in denominations of Rbl1000, 500, 100, 50 and 10 and coins
are in denominations of Rbl5, 2 and 1.
The Rouble was devalued by a factor of 1000 in the year 1998. Old
notes and coins remained legal tender until 2002, although their
real value was 1000th of their face value.
Currency
exchange
Foreign currency should only be exchanged at authorised banks and
official bureaux, and all transactions must be recorded on the currency
declaration form which is issued on arrival. It is wise to hold
on to all exchange receipts. There are plenty of Bureaux
de change which are easy to locate. Large hotels and shops
offer their own exchange facilities. US Dollars
in perfect condition are the easiest currency to exchange.
It is not legal to settle accounts in hard currency and to change
money unofficially.
Credit &
debit cards
Major European and international debit and credit cards, including
AmericanExpress, Diners
Club and Visa are accepted in the larger
hotels and at foreign currency shops and restaurants, but cash
(in Roubles) is preferred. Check
with the credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability
and other services that might be available.
Travellers
cheques
Cash is always preferred.
To steer clear of additional exchange rate charges, travellers are
advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars.
Exchange rate indicators
The following figures should be perceived as guide to the movements
of the Rouble against the US Dollar and UK Pounds
Sterling:
Date
Nov’07
UK£1.00=
51.32474
US$1.00=
24.48162
Currency
restrictions
The export and import of local
currency is prohibited. The import of
foreign currency is not limited but sums greater than $3000 (or
equivalent) must be declared. However, the export of foreign currency
is limited to the amount declared on arrival.
Banking
hours
Banks are open Monday to Friday-9.30 am to 5.30 pm.
