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UZBEKISTAN

The local currency is som. One som is equivalent to 100 tiyin. Approximately 27 som is equivalent to one dollar

Most transactions are conducted on a cash-only, local currency (som) basis. Credit cards are accepted only at the main hotels and a few shops and restaurants; traveler's checks can be cashed only into som at the National Bank of Uzbekistan. Travelers may wish to bring sufficient dollars to exchange into som to cover their expenses. Importation of currency exceeding U.S. $10,000 is subject to a 1% duty. Foreigners must fill out a customs declaration upon entering Uzbekistan and may face fines upon departure if unable to produce certificates verifying legal conversion of foreign currency.

Old U.S. dollar bills (prior to 1990), those in poor condition (with tears, writing, or stamps), are not acceptable forms of currency in Uzbekistan. Although payment in U.S. dollars is required for certain hotel charges, plane tickets, and visa fees, other dollar transactions, as well as black market currency exchanges, are prohibited.

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