Money and duty free for Democratic Republic of Congo

Currency and Money

Currency information

Congolais Franc (CDF) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, 20000 CDF. Please note that the denominations may be subject to change without notice.

Credit cards

The use of MasterCard and Visa is limited to Kinshasa's major hotels. Credit cards cannot be used to obtain cash advances at banks.

As DRC is still a cash society, travellers should bring US dollars with them as US dollars are widely accepted, as long as they are in good condition and issued after 2008.

ATM

There are a few ATMs that dispense US dollars in Kinshasa and you should take normal security precautions when withdrawing money. Western Union and other money transfer agencies are present in most main towns.

Travellers cheques

Traveller's cheques are no longer relevant.

Banking hours

Mon-Fri 0800-1130.

Currency restrictions

The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is limited to US$10,000 and the export of foreign currency is unlimited.

Currency exchange

As US dollars are widely used, you may not need to exchange Congolese Franc (CDF).

Democratic Republic of Congo duty free

Overview

The following items may be imported into Congo (Dem Rep) by travellers over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
• 1L of spirits, 2L of wine, 3L of beer/lemonade.
• 250ml eau de toilette and 50g of perfume.
• Cameras if temporarily imported by tourists.

Radios, audio equipment and gifts are subject to duty.

Banned Imports

An import licence is required for arms and ammunition.