Foreign currency exchange

In Saint Petersburg, Russia, a common recommendation for obtaining the best currency exchange rate is at an exchange point located on Ligovsky Prospekt. While rates fluctuate, this location is frequently cited for competitive offers.

When exporting currency from Switzerland to Russia, individuals should be aware of potential limits. A common guideline mentioned is the limit of 10,000 USD or its equivalent in other currencies per person. It is important to note that while some personal experiences suggest scrutiny at customs, official confirmation and specific regulations should be sought. The attitude of customs officials can sometimes be influenced by nationality, with some anecdotal evidence suggesting a more positive reception for Russian citizens in certain contexts.

Transstroybank (TSB) is currently the primary option for physical currency exchange in Moscow. Use their official Telegram bot to check cash availability at specific branches. Reservations are possible for 2-4 hours. Be aware that the exchange rate is higher than the official rate, and branch inventory can be inconsistent.

For obtaining US dollars in Russia, Ak Bars Bank is mentioned as a potential option for new dollar bills. Travelers planning to exchange these dollars for Korean Won (KRW) in South Korea should note that areas like Myeongdong in Seoul typically offer favorable exchange rates.

The exchange rate used by Yandex Taxi when accepting payments from Russian bank cards in Kazakhstan can vary. Recent reports indicate rates around 5.26 RUB per KZT, which is considered reasonable given current currency exchange fluctuations.

For travel to Egypt, direct exchange of Russian Rubles to Egyptian Pounds (EGP) is highly unfavorable, and EGP availability in Russian banks is minimal. The visa fee at the airport is $25 USD. It is recommended to convert RUB to USD or EUR and carry cash. Alternatively, some Russian bank cards (e.g., Rosselkhozbank) allow EGP withdrawals from ATMs in Egypt, often at a more favorable rate than direct exchange, but card acceptance for payments can be inconsistent. Always carry sufficient cash as a backup due to potential card blocking.

Indicate that Transkreditbank offices may offer Ruble to Lari exchange, but not all branches, and the rates might not be favorable. Specify that only 100 and 200 Lari banknotes are typically available.

To exchange less common currencies like Georgian Lari for Russian Rubles in Moscow, consider contacting the main Sberbank office at Vavilova, 19. This location has historically handled such exchanges.

Due to SWIFT sanctions, Russian bank cards (except certain UnionPay cards) do not work outside of Russia. In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, it is possible to exchange Russian rubles from a card for Mongolian tugriks at specific currency exchange offices, such as those on Naiman Sharga Street. This serves as a workaround for accessing cash.

To exchange RUB to CHF in Moscow: Sberbank offers good rates, but CHF must be pre-ordered in person at a branch the day before. Note that Sberbank only provides 1000 CHF banknotes. Kamkombank also offers good rates; currency can be reserved by phone for 3 hours. Kamkombank typically doesn't hold its own CHF; availability depends on client deposits, usually 1000-1500 CHF at a time. It's crucial to call and verify availability before visiting. Check Banks.ru for current rates.

There is no currency exchange office directly at the Bulgarian Consulate located on Mosfilmovskaya Street in Moscow. However, there are multiple banks with currency exchange services in the vicinity, particularly in the Shuvalovsky complex on Indira Gandhi Street.

For currency exchange between ILS and RUB in Israel, consider these options: 1. Bring USD/EUR cash and exchange it locally at markets or through informal exchangers ('menyal'). 2. Utilize Telegram channels dedicated to currency exchange, where individuals often swap rubles for shekels or vice versa. This can be facilitated by people selling property in Russia who need shekels, or vice versa. 3. Check specific banks in Moscow that may trade in shekels, though rates might not be competitive. Be cautious of unofficial exchange rates, which can be significantly higher than market rates. Banks in Israel often set their own exchange rates, deviating from Google or central bank rates.

The exchange rate for Brazilian Real is generally less favorable in Russia than in Brazil. For example, 100 units might yield approximately 350 BRL in Russia, but 500 BRL in Rio de Janeiro. It's advisable to exchange a minimal amount for 1-2 days upon arrival and then find a better exchange office.

For USD currency exchange in Moscow, be aware that some banks like Kammkombank and Bank Kazan may offer better rates for older US dollar bills, charging an additional fee for newer notes. T-Bank has shown competitive rates. Given the current upward trend in the dollar exchange rate, it is advisable to exchange currency in advance for trips planned in October.

When purchasing new US dollar bills in Russia, particularly in Saint Petersburg, it's advised to exercise caution. While aggregator sites like Banki.ru list exchange rates, they may not specify extra charges for new bills or accurately reflect current availability. It is strongly recommended to call the specific bank branch beforehand to confirm the availability of new sample banknotes and their exact exchange conditions. Sberbank is noted for potentially high exchange rates.