Money, cards and ATMs in Bangladesh

The declaration

• There is no limit on the foreign currency you may bring into Bangladesh, but there is a limit on bringing it in quietly.
• No declaration is needed up to USD 5,000 or equivalent, and up to 10,000 taka in Bangladeshi notes. Above either line you complete a form FMJ for the customs authorities on arrival.
• Transit passengers do not complete the form.
• Keep your copy of the FMJ. It is what lets a foreign national take the declared amount back out on departure. Without it you are limited to USD 5,000, and Bangladesh Bank says explicitly that foreign nationals should retain the declaration so as not to have difficulty leaving with unspent currency.

Day to day

• ATMs are available in most urban areas and accept UK cards. There are far fewer in rural areas, so draw before you leave a city.
• Travellers cheques can still be cashed at banks and airports, which is unusual enough in 2026 to be worth knowing.
• Money exchange desks sit inside the arrivals hall at Dhaka, by the baggage belts and again before the exit gates.

Carrying it

• Do not carry large quantities of cash or wear expensive-looking jewellery or watches.
• Be alert with your phone in public and in crowds. Thieves in Dhaka often work in pairs on motorcycles or CNGs.