NB KR Proposals
Starting from March 31, 2026, the following minimum requirements for working capital will apply to new exchange points, additional locations, and seasonal offices:- 2.5 million soms for exchange offices located outside Bishkek and Osh;
- 5 million soms for exchange points located in Bishkek and Osh;
- 1 million soms for seasonal exchange offices, regardless of their location.
1) for exchange offices, except those located in Bishkek and Osh:
- by March 31, 2026 - at least 1 million soms;
- by March 31, 2028 - at least 2 million soms;
- by March 31, 2030 - at least 3 million soms.
- by March 31, 2026 - at least 2 million soms;
- by March 31, 2028 - at least 3 million soms;
- by March 31, 2030 - at least 5 million soms.
Objectives of the Changes
According to the NB KR, with the increase in currency operations in the country, there is a need to revise the rules for the operation of exchange offices. The growth of financial risks, cases of fraud, and the demand for increased transparency of operations require tightening the regulations regarding working capital."The proposal for minimum amounts of working capital for exchange offices is aimed at creating favorable conditions for the development of this sector and improving the requirements for their activities. Considering the growing volume of operations in exchange offices, we propose a phased increase in working capital requirements for existing offices, which will allow them to adapt to new conditions," the project justification states.
Currently, the minimum amount of working capital for exchange offices in Kyrgyzstan is 1 million soms for legal entities opening points in Bishkek and Osh. For exchange points in the regions, the minimum amount is 500,000 soms, and for seasonal ones (less than 4 months) - also starting from 500,000 soms.
