CURRENCY

The local currency is the Leone (LE). This is made up of 100 cents. Paper money is available in denominations of Le10,000, Le5,000, Le 2,000, Le 1,000, Le 500. Coins are available in Le 500, Le 100, and Le 50.

Sierra Leone operates a floating exchange rate system. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at any of the Commercial Banks, Foreign Exchange Bureaus and Hotels.

Credit cards (American Express, Master Card and Visa) can be used to settle bills in some hotels and Restaurants. Please confirm with Management prior to any transaction. Credit cards can also be used at some of the Commercial Banks for cash in Leones. Traveler's cheque can be used at major Hotels or Cashed at Banks and some shops.

It is illegal to exchange money in the street with unlicensed money dealers. Exchange money only at the Bank or at a foreign Exchange Bureau (bureau de change)

BANKING

Banks are located in Freetown (downtown), Bo, Kenema and Makeni (with further branches to be opened shortly). Most currencies can be exchanged at the posted daily rate. Money drafts can be received at Western Union and some other banks. Cash may be drawn on credit cards at the major banks.

Accounts can be opened in local and international currencies with the proper identification. ATM facilities are available within the country, linking the bank's head office with branch offices up country. There is no facility for international ATM access.


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