Banking, Money and Taxes in Botswana

The financial sector in Botswana is a growing industry, and the country's national stock market is among the best performing in Africa. The Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE) is based in the capital city of Gaborone, and some of the biggest companies doing business in the country are listed. 

A number of global entities are investing in Botswana's economy, encouraged by its lack of exchange controls and fairly liberal economic policies.

Money in Botswana

The currency in Botswana is the Pula, abbreviated as BWP. There are 100 thebe to one pula. US dollars and euros are accepted in major hotels and other businesses that cater to international tourists, but expats should expect to use pula for all day-to-day transactions.

• Notes: BWP 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200

• Coins: BWP 1, 2 and 5; and 5, 10, 25 and 50 thebe

Currency can be exchanged at banks, licensed moneychangers, airport terminals and some hotels.

Banking in Botswana

The Bank of Botswana is the country's central bank, but a selection of local, regional and international banks are available too. This includes Bank Gaborone, First National Bank and Standard Chartered.

Expats living in Botswana tend to have a local account for daily expenses such as paying utility bills and buying groceries while keeping an offshore account for savings. 

Foreigners can open a personal account at any of the local banks with ease. Most banks offer a full spectrum of services that include debit and credit cards, online banking and specialised investment services.

Banking hours are usually 9am to 3pm or 3.30pm from Monday to Friday, with some branches open on Saturday mornings.

Expats shouldn’t have a problem finding English-speaking tellers or consultants. Language in the country shouldn't pose a major culture shock to expats who speak English.

Credits cards and ATMs

Some major international credit cards are widely accepted in Botswana – these include Visa and Mastercard. Expats carrying American Express and Diners Club cards may not be able to use these. Many petrol stations and some shops outside of the cities still only accept cash, so it’s useful for expats to carry pula with them at all times.

Bank branches are plentiful, especially near busy shopping areas. ATMs are just as widely available in Botswana's cities, and most larger stores accept debit and credit cards.

Taxes in Botswana

The tax system in Botswana changes often and can be tricky for an expat to navigate on their own. For this reason, we encourage foreigners to a hire a specialist with detailed knowledge of the country’s tax system and experience working with expats.