Currency Accepted in Cambodia: Complete Guide for Travelers

Cambodia has one of the most unique currency systems in Southeast Asia. While the official national currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), U.S. Dollars (USD) are also widely accepted across the country. Visitors can comfortably use both currencies in most cities, tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Understanding how money works in Cambodia will help you avoid confusion, save money, and travel more smoothly.

Official Currency of Cambodia

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), represented by the symbol ៛. The exchange rate is usually around:

• 1 USD ≈ 4,000 Cambodian Riel

Although the riel is the official currency, Cambodia operates with a dual-currency system where both USD and KHR are used side by side.

U.S. Dollars in Cambodia

U.S. Dollars are accepted almost everywhere in Cambodia, especially in:

• Phnom Penh
• Siem Reap
• Sihanoukville
• Major tourist destinations
• Hotels and resorts
• Restaurants and bars
• Tour companies
• Tuk-tuks and taxis

Many prices are displayed directly in USD, particularly in tourist areas.

Common Uses of USD

Cambodian Riel for Small Purchases

Cambodian Riel is mostly used for:

• Small purchases
• Local markets
• Street food
• Convenience stores
• Change from USD payments

For example:

• If something costs $0.75, you may pay with $1 and receive change in riel.
• Small amounts under $1 are usually returned in KHR because U.S. coins are not used in Cambodia.

Important Things to Know About USD Bills

Cambodia is very strict about the condition of U.S. dollar notes.

Bills May Be Rejected If They Are:

• Torn
• Dirty
• Folded excessively
• Written on
• Stained
• Damaged at corners

Even small damage can cause problems when paying. Travelers are strongly advised to bring clean, newer USD notes.

Small USD Bills

Cambodia has gradually reduced the use of smaller USD bills like:

• $1
• $2
• $5

These are increasingly replaced by Cambodian riel.

Can You Use Credit Cards?

Yes, credit and debit cards are accepted in many places, especially:

• Hotels
• Upscale restaurants
• Shopping malls
• Supermarkets
• Larger businesses

Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards.

However, cash is still very important in Cambodia, especially outside cities and tourist areas.

Card Tips

• Some businesses charge a 2–4% card fee
• Small shops may accept cash only
• Internet issues can occasionally affect card terminals

ATMs in Cambodia

ATMs are easy to find in cities and tourist destinations.

Most Cambodian ATMs allow withdrawals in:

• USD
• Cambodian Riel

Some banks provide both options on screen.

ATM Withdrawal Fees

International ATM fees are commonly:

• $4–$6 per transaction

Popular banks include:

• ABA Bank
• ACLEDA Bank
• Canadia Bank

Are Other Currencies Accepted?

In some border areas:

• Thai Baht (THB) is accepted near Thailand
• Vietnamese Dong (VND) may be accepted near Vietnam

But throughout most of Cambodia, USD and KHR are the main currencies used.

Mobile Payments and QR Payments

Cambodia has rapidly adopted QR-code mobile payments.

Popular payment systems include:

• ABA Pay
• KHQR
• Pi Pay
• Bakong

Locals use QR payments extensively, but tourists usually rely on:

• Cash
• Cards
• International banking apps

Apple Pay and Google Pay are still not widely accepted nationwide.

Tips for Travelers

Best Money Tips for Cambodia

• Bring clean USD notes
• Carry small denominations ($10 and $20 bills work best)
• Keep some Cambodian riel for local purchases
• Use ATMs from major banks
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Always check your change carefully

Recommended Combination

Most travelers find this combination easiest:

• Use USD for hotels, tours, restaurants, and transport
• Use riel for markets, snacks, and small purchases

Is Cambodia Moving Away From USD?

Cambodia has been encouraging greater use of the riel in recent years through a gradual “de-dollarization” effort. Smaller USD notes are becoming less common, and more businesses now use riel pricing. However, USD remains extremely common and convenient for visitors.

Final Thoughts

Cambodia’s dual-currency system is simple once you understand it:

• Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency
• U.S. Dollars (USD) are accepted almost everywhere
• Small change is usually given in riel
• Clean cash is very important
• Cards work in cities, but cash remains essential

For most visitors, carrying a mix of USD and Cambodian riel is the best and easiest option when traveling around Cambodia.