National Bank denies rumours about old-style US dollars being withdrawn from circulation

The National Bank has officially denied reports that the so-called white dollars are being withdrawn from circulation. In recent days, social networks and messengers have been actively spreading misleading information that commercial banks and exchange bureaus allegedly do not accept these notes.

The bank emphasises that such information does not correspond to reality. Moreover, the National Bank has no right to withdraw the currency of other countries, particularly U.S. dollars, from circulation. ‘White’ dollars are notes issued between 1996 and 2006, characterised by a lighter shade.

According to paragraph 14 of the Regulation ‘On the Procedure of Exchange Operations with Foreign Currency in Cash in the Kyrgyz Republic’, banks and exchange bureaus are not entitled to impose restrictions or set different rates depending on the value or year of issue of banknotes that have not lost the status of a means of payment.

If you encounter an unreasonable refusal to exchange currency, you may apply to the National Bank with a written request to take appropriate measures.