Cambodia Currency: Credit Card, ATM & Exchange Riel to USD
The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR, Khmer Riel). The Riel is in circulation by the following banknote denominations of 50 riels, 100 riels, 500 riels, 1000 riels, 2000 riels, 5000 riels, 10,000 riels, 20,000 riels, 50,000 riels, and finally, 100,000 riels.
American Dollar, the USD is the second and in-fact, the unofficial currency of Cambodia. This means, if you’ve got cash US dollars, you won’t need to change money in Cambodia and you’ll pay much the same as you would with riel. Thai baht are also widely accepted. However, USD is the most poplar one, you can pay for hotels, tours, in restaurants and for shopping, and your change will always be in Cambodian Riel.
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History of Cambodia Currency
In the 19th century, the French introduced paper money to Cambodia. The first paper notes, called “piastres,” appeared in 1859 and were replaced by the riel in 1953 after Cambodia gained independence.
The riel became the official currency of Cambodia, used for all domestic transactions. It is divided into smaller units: 1 riel equals 100 sen, and 1 sen equals 10 kak.
Today, Cambodia uses both the riel and the US dollar, with the dollar widely accepted. The US dollar has helped stabilize Cambodia’s economy and made it easier for tourists. However, the government is working toward to take Riel to the economy and use it as the only money in Cambodia.
Cambodia Currency in Circulation: Banknotes
Cambodia national bank has issued a range of banknotes over the years, each with unique designs and issue dates. Denominations vary from 50 riels to 100,000 riels, gets in circulation between 1995 and 2024.
Higher denominations highlight the royal family, historical sites, and cultural icons. The 20,000 riel note features King Norodom Sihamoni and Angkor Wat, while the 30,000 riel note portrays King Norodom Sihanouk and Prime Minister Hun Sen, with the Royal Palace and Eiffel Tower in the background.
Tips for Money in Cambodia & Currency Exchange Options
In Cambodia, grocery stores and malls often display prices in U.S. dollars, locals often carry U.S. dollars alongside Cambodian riel. While Khmer usually make larger payments in U.S. dollars, smaller transactions often use Cambodian riel. Unlike in many other countries, the exchange rate for U.S. dollars to Cambodian riel is generally fair.
Cambodians are very particular about the condition of U.S. bills. Shops, hotels and restaurants won’t accept old or ripped banknotes. Bring Crisp, Clean U.S. Dollar Bills When You Travel to Cambodia. If your U.S. dollars are damaged, especially at the edges, you must check with the bank to get it exchange to the Riel. Private money changers may accept ripped bills but will charge a fee for the exchange.
Using ATMs in Cambodia
ATMs in Cambodia dispense both U.S. dollars and Cambodian riel. However, if you use a foreign ATM card, you can only withdraw U.S. dollars. Additionally, many western banks will have a daily limit on withdrawals far below USD2000 with the fee varying from 4 to 6 USD per transaction.
Travelers reported to avoid ATMs from banks like Shinhan, which only accept local cards issued by Cambodian banks, and Bank of China, as they are generally unreliable for foreign cardholders.
At Cambodia’s border entry points from Thailand, travelers often prefer to use Thai Baht (THB), though US Dollars (USD) are still accepted to pay the visa fee. Additionally, at the Vietnam-Cambodia border, Vietnamese Dong (VND) is commonly preferred, but US Dollars (USD) are also widely accepted.
Tipping in Cambodia
Tipping is not expected in Cambodia, but salaries are very low and any gratuities for good service will be gratefully accepted. Bargaining is the rule in markets, when hiring vehicles and sometimes even when taking a room, but you won’t need to be as forceful as you would in Thailand or Vietnam. Tip your guide or driver, tip teh staff you see at your hotel and that usually won’t be more than USD 3-5.
FAQ: Cambodian Currency
Cambodian currency to USD
What is the Cambodian currency symbol
- Code Symbol: KHR
- Cambodian Riel’s ISO 4217 code: KHR
- Cambodian Coins & Banknotes: 50 riels, 10000 riels, 100 riels, 20000 riels, 2000 riels, 500 riels, 1000 riels, 5000 riels, 200 riels, 50000 riels
Why does Cambodia use two currencies?
The US Dollar began to be used alongside the Cambodian Riel, the local currency, as a medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value. Dollarization did not stem from a government policy decision but emerged as a result of a loss of public confidence in the national currency and government policies.
What currency do tourists use in Cambodia?
Currency in Cambodia is the riel, but you can use both riel and US dollars to pay for goods and services. The riel price is often better than the equivalent dollar price. If you’re asking, “What currency should I use in Siem Reap, Cambodia?” it’s best to bring US dollars, as these are widely accepted and commonly used in Cambodia.
How much is $100 US in Cambodia?
The USD100 banknote trades around 403.000 in Cambodian Riel in Jan of the 2025. In Cambodia you still can use and pay USD for pretty much anything. Your visa on arrival can also be paid in USD.
