Money and duty free for Zimbabwe

Currency and Money

Currency information

Zimbabwe operates a multi-currency system. The official local currency is the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), introduced in 2024. In practice, the US Dollar is the most widely used currency for everyday transactions, particularly in cities, tourist areas and the hospitality sector. Visitors are advised to carry small denominations of US Dollars, as acceptance of the local currency can be limited and change may be difficult to obtain.

Credit cards

Credit card acceptance in Zimbabwe is limited. Major hotels, upmarket restaurants and some supermarkets in cities such as Harare and Victoria Falls may accept Visa and Mastercard, but many smaller businesses do not. Card payments can also be affected by network issues, so visitors should not rely on credit cards as their primary payment method.

ATM

ATMs are available in major cities and towns, but their reliability is inconsistent. Machines may be out of service, have limited cash supplies or dispense only local currency. Withdrawal limits can be low, and foreign bank cards may not always work. Visitors are advised to carry sufficient cash, particularly when travelling outside urban areas.

Banking hours

Mon to Fri, 08:00 to 15:00.

Currency restrictions

Travellers entering or leaving Zimbabwe with more than US $10,000 (or equivalent in other currencies) are required to declare it to customs authorities. Visitors are advised to keep exchange receipts, as they may be required when reconverting money on departure.

Currency exchange

Currency exchange is available at banks, authorised bureaux de change and some hotels. Rates offered by official exchange points are regulated and generally transparent. Street money changers are not recommended due to the risk of fraud. US Dollars in good condition and small denominations are preferred, as damaged or old notes may be refused.

Zimbabwe duty free

Overview

Travellers aged 18 and over may import certain goods into Zimbabwe once per calendar month without incurring customs duty.

• Up to 5 litres of alcoholic beverages, of which no more than 2 litres may be spirits.
• General goods with a total value not exceeding US$200.

Basic foodstuffs such as flour, sugar, meat, fish, dairy products and eggs, as well as household appliances and furniture, are generally excluded from the rebate and usually attract duty.

Banned Imports

According to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, prohibited items include narcotics and illegal drugs, firearms and ammunition, explosives and fireworks, pornographic material, counterfeit goods and currency, and products made from endangered wildlife such as ivory and animal skins. Certain food, plant and animal products may also be restricted. This list is not exhaustive. Travellers should consult the official customs website or contact the embassy or consulate near you for the most up-to-date information.

Banned Exports

Prohibited exports include ivory, rhinoceros horn and other products derived from protected wildlife, as well as cultural or archaeological artefacts without official permission. Currency export regulations apply, and travellers must declare amounts exceeding US$10,000 or equivalent. This list is not exhaustive. Travellers should consult the official customs website or contact the embassy or consulate near you for the most up-to-date information.