Sachin Walls
When travelling to and from Zimbabwe, it is important to be aware of the currency exchange rules and regulations. While there is no restriction on the amount of currency that can be brought into the country, visitors are encouraged to complete a Baggage Declaration Form (Form 47) and declare the amount of currency they possess. On the other hand, there is a limit on the amount of currency that can be taken out of Zimbabwe, which is currently set at US$2,000 or its equivalent in other currencies. Any amount exceeding this limit requires specific approval from the Exchange Control Unit at the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. These regulations are governed by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) under the Exchange Control Act and its subsequent amendments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Importation of currency into Zimbabwe | Not restricted |
| Declaration of currency imported | Form 47 |
| Limit of currency exported from Zimbabwe | USD 2000 or its equivalent in other currencies |
| Limit of currency exported from Zimbabwe for non-residents | USD 10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies |
| Limit of Zimbabwean currency exported | USD 1000 or its equivalent in other currencies |
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What You'll Learn
- There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into Zimbabwe
- Travellers leaving Zimbabwe can carry up to $2000 USD or its equivalent in other currencies
- Travellers entering Zimbabwe are encouraged to declare the amount of currency they possess
- Travellers exiting Zimbabwe can carry up to $10,000 USD or its equivalent without authorisation
- Travellers can seek approval from the Exchange Control Unit to carry more than $10,000 USD
There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has a multi-currency system, and there is no limit on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into the country. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) governs the importation and exportation of currency in and out of Zimbabwe, in terms of the Exchange Control Act and Exchange Control Regulations. Travellers are urged to complete a customs declaration form (Form 47) to support the re-export of any balance of currency at the end of their visit.
In 2008, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe licensed around 1000 shops to deal in foreign currency, as citizens were increasingly using foreign currency in daily exchanges. In 2009, the acting Finance Minister, Patrick Chinamasa, lifted the restriction to use only Zimbabwean dollars, allowing citizens to use the US dollar, the euro, and the South African rand. However, civil servants and teachers continued to be paid in Zimbabwean dollars.
In April 2009, Zimbabwe stopped printing its currency, and in 2015, the country announced plans to switch completely to the US dollar. However, in 2019, the Zimbabwean government reintroduced the Real Time Gross Settlement dollar (RTGS), also known as the "Zimbabwe dollar", rendering all foreign currency no longer legal tender. This led to a sharp rise in inflation, sparking concerns about another period of hyperinflation.
In April 2024, Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) was introduced as a new currency to replace the Zimbabwean dollar. The US dollar remains legal tender, and foreign currency can be exchanged at officially licensed dealers such as banks or bureaux de change. It is recommended to carry small denomination notes and avoid torn or damaged notes, as shops and restaurants may refuse them.
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Travellers leaving Zimbabwe can carry up to $2000 USD or its equivalent in other currencies
It is important to note that this limit applies to all travellers departing Zimbabwe, regardless of their residency status. The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) urges all travellers leaving the country to strictly adhere to this limit. Any amount exceeding the allowable threshold may be seized and forfeited to the State. Non-Zimbabwean residents who have currencies above the allowable threshold may be allowed to export the amount equal to or the balance of declared currencies upon arrival.
To ensure a smooth departure process, travellers are encouraged to complete a Customs Declaration Form (Form 47) and declare the amount of currency they are carrying. This form can be obtained from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority. It is also important to keep the declaration form safe, as it may be required for reference upon departure.
In addition to the currency restrictions, travellers should be aware of other regulations and requirements when departing Zimbabwe. For example, ensuring that all travel documents, such as passports and visas, are valid and easily accessible. It is also recommended to carry a copy of your passport and visa while keeping the originals in a safe place, such as a hotel safe.
By adhering to the currency regulations and other travel requirements, travellers can ensure a smooth departure process when leaving Zimbabwe. It is always advisable to stay updated with the latest information and regulations from official sources before travelling to any destination.
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Travellers entering Zimbabwe are encouraged to declare the amount of currency they possess
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) governs the importation and exportation of currency in and out of Zimbabwe. According to the Exchange Control Act [Chapter 22:05] and Exchange Control Regulations, there are no restrictions on the amount of currency that can be brought into the country. However, travellers entering Zimbabwe are strongly advised to declare the amount of currency they possess by completing a Baggage Declaration Form (Form 47) upon their arrival. This serves as a record of the currency imported and can facilitate the re-export of any remaining currency when departing Zimbabwe, especially if the amount exceeds the allowed export thresholds.
It is important to note that while there are no restrictions on the amount of currency that can be brought into Zimbabwe, there are limits on the amount of currency that can be taken out of the country. Travellers leaving Zimbabwe are subject to regulations stipulated by the Exchange Control (General) (Amendment) Order, 2017, which specifies a limit of US$2,000 or its equivalent in any currency or combination of currencies, including bond notes and coins. Should a traveller wish to export an amount exceeding this threshold, they must seek approval from the Exchange Control Unit at the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.
Additionally, according to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), the amount of Zimbabwean currency that a person may possess when departing the country without authorisation is limited. In terms of section 22 of the Exchange Control Regulations, 1996, the limit is set at the equivalent of US$1,000 at the prevailing interbank exchange rate for notes and coins in circulation. For demonetised notes and coins, the limit is up to 100 pieces of each denomination.
Furthermore, ZIMRA also specifies a limit on the amount of foreign currency that can be possessed by an individual leaving Zimbabwe without authorisation. As per section 22 of the Exchange Control Regulations, this limit is set at a total of US$10,000 or its equivalent in any other currency, combination of currencies, or gold coins. These regulations apply to individuals in the departure or transit lounge of an airport or any other port of entry or exit. It is important for travellers to be aware of these regulations and to declare their currency accordingly to ensure compliance with Zimbabwe's currency import and export laws.
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Travellers exiting Zimbabwe can carry up to $10,000 USD or its equivalent without authorisation
Travellers exiting Zimbabwe can carry up to $10,000 USD or its equivalent in any other currency or combination of currencies without prior authorisation. This applies to both residents and non-residents of Zimbabwe. However, it is important to note that the rules and regulations regarding currency declaration and authorisation may change, so it is always advisable to check with the relevant authorities before travelling.
For non-residents of Zimbabwe, it is important to complete a Customs declaration (Form 47) upon arrival, indicating the amount of currency imported. This will support the re-export of any balance of currency at the end of the visit if it exceeds the allowed export threshold of $10,000 USD. Non-residents with currencies above the allowable threshold may be allowed to export an amount equal to or balanced with their declared currencies upon arrival.
On the other hand, Zimbabwean residents with currencies above the $10,000 USD threshold may require authorisation from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe to export currency. Any excess currency found in the possession of travellers without proper authorisation may be seized and forfeited to the State.
It is important to strictly adhere to the currency regulations when exiting Zimbabwe. In addition to currency restrictions, there are other important considerations when travelling to and from Zimbabwe. For example, travellers are advised to declare cash or traveller's cheques if the value exceeds $10,000 USD, and there are restrictions on carrying certain items, such as firearms, precious stones, and pornographic material.
Furthermore, travellers should be aware of the visa requirements when entering Zimbabwe. Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival, which is typically valid for 30 days. Alternatively, an e-visa or the KAZA Univisa, which allows travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia and day trips to Botswana, can be obtained before travelling.
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Travellers can seek approval from the Exchange Control Unit to carry more than $10,000 USD
Travellers can legally carry up to $10,000 USD or its equivalent in other currencies or gold coins when leaving Zimbabwe. This limit applies to the total amount of currency in a traveller's possession, including cash in their wallet or baggage. If a traveller wishes to carry more than this amount, they must seek approval from the Exchange Control Unit at the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.
The process of seeking approval from the Exchange Control Unit typically involves declaring the amount of currency being carried and providing supporting documentation. Travellers may be required to complete a customs declaration form, such as Form 47, stating the amount of currency they are importing or exporting. This form should be submitted to the appropriate customs authorities, who will review the request and make a decision based on the regulations and guidelines in place.
It is important to note that the regulations regarding currency exportation may change, and it is advisable to stay updated with the latest information from official sources. As of 2017, the limit on currency exportation was increased from $1,000 to $2,000 per person, and travellers intending to carry more than this amount were required to seek approval from the Exchange Control Unit.
To ensure compliance with the regulations, travellers should be aware of the current limits and requirements before their trip. They can seek guidance from official government websites, embassies, or consulates to understand the specific procedures and documentation needed to obtain approval from the Exchange Control Unit for carrying amounts exceeding $10,000 USD.
While the importation of currency into Zimbabwe is not restricted, travellers are still encouraged to declare the amount of currency they are bringing into the country. This can be done by completing a customs declaration form upon arrival, which helps to facilitate the re-export of any remaining currency when leaving Zimbabwe, provided it does not exceed the allowed export threshold.
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Frequently asked questions
I was not able to find information on exchanging ZIM at an international airport. However, I did find information on currency exchange at Harare Airport in Zimbabwe.
There is no restriction on the amount of currency that can be brought into Zimbabwe. However, all visitors are encouraged to complete a Baggage Declaration Form (Form 47) and declare the currency in their possession.
Travellers are allowed to take up to US$2,000 or its equivalent in any other currency out of Zimbabwe. If a traveller wishes to export an amount above this threshold, they must seek specific approval from the Exchange Control Unit at the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.
The national currency of Zimbabwe is the US Dollar.
