Europe
Money, cards and tipping in Belarus
BYNBelarusian ruble
Money in Belarus
Mostly cash Almost no banks accept foreign cards, so bring US dollars or euros in clean notes and exchange them at licensed banks with your passport. US$1 ≈ Br3.01 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: About 10% in restaurants for good service; some add a service charge. Not expected in taxis.
- ATMs: Very few ATMs accept foreign cards; those that do charge higher fees and set low limits.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and Google Pay need a Belarusian card; visitors should plan on cash.
- Price level: about 30% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minsk | Mostly cash | Almost no banks accept foreign cards, so bring US dollars or euros in clean notes and exchange them at licensed banks with your passport. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Belarus?
About 10% in restaurants for good service; some add a service charge. Not expected in taxis.
Is Belarus cashless?
Mostly cash. Almost no banks accept foreign cards, so bring US dollars or euros in clean notes and exchange them at licensed banks with your passport.
What currency does Belarus use?
The Belarusian ruble (BYN). US$1 ≈ Br3.01 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Belarus
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus
- Minsk National Airport
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.