Dollar or riel: how it works

Cambodia is officially bi-currency. The US dollar (USD) is the main currency for all transactions over 1 dollar — hotels, restaurants, transportation, and entrance fees. The Khmer riel (KHR) serves as the minor currency: change given on a dollar is often provided in riels at the rate of 4,000 KHR = 1 USD.

💡 The exchange rate to remember

4,000 riels = 1 dollar. This is the nearly fixed rate used throughout the country. If you receive 2,000 riels, that’s 0.50 USD. If you receive 1,000 riels, that’s 0.25 USD. Riels are only used for small change; you will never need large amounts.

Damaged bills: golden rule

Absolute rule: Torn, scribbled, very crumpled, stained, or corner-torn dollar bills are systematically refused by Cambodian sellers. Not out of bad will — local banks do not accept them. Withdraw from an ATM (which dispenses new bills) and check your bills before putting them away.

ATMs: where to withdraw without losing money

Withdrawal fees in Cambodia vary greatly depending on the ATM. On the Cambodian side, fees range from 0 to 5 USD per withdrawal depending on the bank. On the French side, your bank may charge its own fees in addition.

🏦 ABA Bank Low fees (1–2 USD)
Available everywhere
🏦 Acleda Bank Low fees
Good national coverage
🏦 BRED Bank No ATM fees on KH side
Less common
⚠️ Unknown ATMs Fees up to 5 USD
Avoid

Tip: withdraw large amounts at once to limit the number of withdrawals (and associated fees). The usual limit per withdrawal is 500 USD. With a Revolut or Wise card, fees on the French side are often zero — combined with an ABA ATM, you minimize fees to the lowest.

Card payment

Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and tourist shops in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. A commission of 2 to 3% is frequently added for card payments — some establishments absorb it, while others explicitly charge it. Outside tourist areas, in markets and with small vendors, cash remains essential.

Exchanging euros in Cambodia

Currency exchange offices and Cambodian banks accept euros, but the rate is often less favorable than for dollars. The best strategy for European travelers: withdraw dollars directly from ATMs in Cambodia (your bank exchanges at its rate, often better than a local bureau). No need to bring euros in cash.

Fake bills: real risk?

The circulation of fake 100 USD bills exists but remains rare in tourist areas. Bank ATMs dispense authentic bills. If you exchange money at an informal exchange office (to be avoided), check the bills you receive. The watermark and security thread are the simplest markers.

Frequently asked questions

People often ask us

Frequently asked questions

The US dollar (USD) for all transactions, and the riel (KHR) for smaller denominations. Rate: 4,000 riels = 1 USD.

ABA Bank and Acleda Bank have the lowest fees (1-2 USD). BRED Bank does not charge ATM fees on the Cambodian side. Avoid ATMs from unknown brands in tourist areas.

Yes in tourist cities (hotels, restaurants, shops). In markets and rural areas, cash is still essential. A commission of 2-3% is often added.