Skip to main content

Belarus (BY)

A highly centralised Eastern European country with Soviet-era urban planning, low local costs, strong public transport, good basic infrastructure, sanctions-affected banking, strict migration registration and a complex risk profile for foreign residents.

Capital: Minsk
Region: Europe
Language: Belarusian
Currency: BYN (Br)
Cost of living: Very affordable (index 28)
Emergency: 112
Free
Premium

Currency & Money

Practical money tips for living in Belarus.

Br
Belarusian ruble
BYN

Denominations

Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 kopecks and 1, 2 rubles. Notes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 rubles.

Payment Culture

Cards and local bank apps work well domestically, but sanctions mean many foreign cards, transfers and apps can fail. Cash BYN is still useful for markets, taxis, rural areas and outages.

ATM Tips

Use bank ATMs, keep receipts, avoid relying on one foreign card, and confirm whether your home bank blocks Belarus transactions before travel.

Exchange Tips

Exchange at banks or licensed offices. Keep documentation for large cash, property or business transfers; importing or exporting USD 10,000+ equivalent requires declaration.

Pro tip: Best apps for expats

  • • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
  • • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
  • • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents