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International banks have branches in the major cities and all major cities and banks have Bureau de Change offices. Most banks in small towns accept travellers' cheques. Automated teller machines (ATMs), linked to all international networks, are available throughout the country. They are generally found at banks, in shopping malls and at filling stations. Banking hours are weekdays from 09:00 to 15:30 and Saturdays from 09:00 to 10:30.
VISA and MasterCards are accepted almost everywhere, while American Express and Diners Club are also accepted, but not as widely. Most retail stores accept credit cards and pin-based debit cards as payment.
The South African currency is the Rand (ZAR) which is divided into 100 cents (c). Notes are in denominations of R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10. Coins are in denominations of R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c.
VAT is currently set at 14% on most goods and services and by law should be included in the retail price displayed on goods unless explicitly stated otherwise. Visitors may claim back the VAT paid on products when leaving the country, provided that the total value of the goods exceed R250. You need to claim back the VAT before you embark on your flight home and will have to produce the original tax invoice for the item. VAT refund administrator's offices are available at OR Tambo and Cape Town International Airports. VAT paid on services or goods consumed in the country is not refundable.
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