You Now Need an ID to Exchange Money in Lebanon
Starting this month, anyone exchanging money in Lebanon must present an ID or passport. This applies to all exchange shops, no matter the amount being exchanged.
The rule comes from Lebanon’s Central Bank (BDL), which issued Circular 3/ Decision 13769 on November 14, 2025. It requires all non-bank financial institutions, including exchange shops, money transfer companies, and e-wallet providers, to collect and verify customer information for every cash transaction. The data is to then be securely sent to BDL within one business day.
The move is part of Lebanon’s expanding “know your customer” (KYC) system, designed to prevent money laundering and financial misuse. All new and existing customers are affected, and exchange shops must keep this information on file for possible review.
For customers, the message is clear: no ID means no transaction. Even small, routine exchanges are now subject to these checks as the state steps up financial oversight. What do you think about this measure?
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