Money and duty free for Cambodia
Currency and Money
Currency information
The official currency of Cambodia is the riel (KHR; symbol ៛), but the U.S. dollar is widely used. Riel banknotes are available in denominations of 200,000៛, 100,000៛, 50,000៛, 20,000៛, 10,000៛, 5,000៛, 2,000៛, 1,000៛, 500៛, 200៛, 100៛, and 50៛. However, the 50៛ and 200,000៛ notes are rare.
Damaged or worn U.S. dollar bills may not be accepted. Therefore, keeping small riel notes on hand is practical for minor purchases.
Credit cards
Credit cards are accepted in Cambodia, particularly in hotels, large restaurants, high-end shops, and tour agencies in major cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted. However, cash remains king in many parts of the country, especially in rural areas and for small transactions.
ATM
ATMs are widely available in urban areas and tourist destinations, and most accept foreign cards. They typically dispense U.S. dollars, though some machines also offer withdrawals in riel. Commonly accepted international cards include Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes UnionPay. Be aware that ATM fees can vary.
Banking hours
Mon-Fri 08:00-16:00.
Currency restrictions
Foreign currency: There are no strict restrictions on the amount of foreign currency visitors can bring into or take out of Cambodia, but amounts exceeding USD 10,000 (or its equivalent) must be declared to customs authorities upon arrival or departure.
Currency exchange
Money exchange services are easy to find in cities and tourist areas. Licensed exchange bureaus often offer competitive rates for exchanging U.S. dollars, euros, Thai baht, and other major currencies. U.S. dollars are the most commonly exchanged and used, but always ensure the bills are clean and undamaged, as torn or worn notes may be refused.
Cambodia duty free
Overview
Travellers aged 18 and over are permitted to import the following items into Cambodia without incurring customs duties:
• Tobacco Products: Up to 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco.
• Alcoholic Beverages: Up to 2L.
• Perfume and Cosmetics: Up to 350ml.
Please note that these allowances are subject to change. Travellers should consult the nearest Cambodian embassy before travelling.
Banned Imports
Banned imports include narcotics and psychotropic substances, obscene materials, and counterfeit items.
Prohibited imports include weapons, explosives, and certain chemicals and pesticides.
Banned Exports
Banned exports include narcotics and psychotropic substances.
Prohibited exports include antiques and cultural artefacts, wildlife and endangered species, and weapons and explosives.
