Benefits

Cash on hand

Cash on hand

Have cash handy for smaller spends or unexpected emergencies.

Easy access

Easy access

Visit your nearest Absa  foreign exchange branch or contact us via phone or email.

Currencies

Currencies

We support all major currencies and a selection of denominations.


Learn more about foreign banknotes
 

  • Cash on hand

    • Cash is still the most widely accepted form of payment anywhere.

    • You can buy foreign currency for your travels up to 60 days before your trip. 

    • You must exchange any unused currency at an Absa foreign exchange branch when you return from your trip.

  • What you need to apply

    • Valid ID

    • Valid passport

    • Air ticket or eTicket in your name
       

    If you’re travelling by land to countries that aren’t in the common monetary area (Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland), you’ll need to provide your vehicle’s registration certificate.

  • Tips to stay safe

    • Only carry small denominations of notes so that you don’t attract attention when paying.
    • Don’t buy currency on the black market - this is illegal.
    • Always check your change and keep an eye out for counterfeit notes.
    • If you deal with soft currencies (like those in some Eastern European and most African countries), remember that bank notes will be difficult to exchange outside that country. Rather spend the cash, or convert it to a major currency before you depart.

Tips on exchange rates, travel and emigrating

  • Exchange rates

    When you’re looking at exchange rates, remember:

    • Exchange rates change many times per day.
    • Due to fluctuations, rates quoted on radio and television probably won’t be the rates you receive.
    • There’s a difference between a buy and a sell rate; different products are also sold at different rates.
    • All financial institutions offer different rates — speak to us for a competitive rate.

  • Travel tips

    • Make sure that your passport is valid for six months after your return date.
    • Use your Banking App or Absa Online Banking to notify the Fraud Call Centre of when and where you’re travelling to.
    • Need a visa? Apply in advance. Embassy timelines can be unpredictable.
    • Take copies of your passport, travel documents, bank cards and the purchase agreement for travellers cheques in case of loss, theft or emergencies.
    • Give your itinerary and contact numbers to family - be savvy, stay safe.
    • When you buy travel tickets with your Absa Credit Card, you automatically qualify for free, basic Travel Insurance. Get a free quote to upgrade your Insurance online or call us on 0860 151 151. Ensure that you read the terms and conditions to make sure what the insurance entails, click here for the terms and conditions.
    • Check your airline restrictions on hand luggage and the size of toiletries allowed on board.

Related topics

Forex delivery

Forex delivery

Get your foreign currency delivered to your door in 24 hours. Free and secure delivery on orders over R30,000.

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Multi- Currency Cash Passport

Multi-currency cash passport

Diversify your portfolio with a Currency Investment Account, plus simply send or receive money overseas.

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Need more help

Contact us
Call us on: 0860 151 151
International: +27 (0) 11 335 4019
Email us at: forex@absa.co.za
Free USSD: *134 *36739#