Currency in Cambodia: KHR Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in Cambodia with the Cambodian riel.
What's in this Cambodia currency guide?
What currency is used in Cambodia?
The official currency of Cambodia (country code: KH) is the Cambodian riel, with symbol ៛ and currency code KHR.
What is a good Cambodian riel exchange rate?
The BestExchangeRates.com currency comparison table below helps you see the total cost of your currency transaction by showing the exchange rates offered by different providers. It also makes it easy to spot potential savings from market-leading FX services compared to bank rates.
To see a full list of rates, enter your transaction type, currencies and amount then click ‘GET RATES’:
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Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in Cambodia?
The domestic currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian riel.
What is the Cambodian riel currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Cambodian riel is KHR — symbol is ៛.
What does the Cambodian riel look like?
Here is an example Cambodian riel banknote:
Which countries use the Cambodian riel?
It is the domestic currency in Cambodia.
Is the Cambodian riel a closed currency?
Yes the Cambodian riel is a closed currency. Which means that you may find it difficult to purchase the currency (KHR) before departure and will probably need to buy it upon arrival. If you do manage to buy some of the currency or have some left over from a previous trip, make sure you are aware if you are allowed to bring this closed currency into the country.
For more information and a full list of closed currencies please refer to our guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and KHR?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to KHR (US dollar to Cambodian riel)*.
*Converted at the current USDKHR interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Travel money for Cambodia
As mentioned above, the Cambodian riel is a closed currency. Which means that you may find it difficult (or be permitted) to purchase the currency (KHR) before departure and will need to buy it upon arrival in Cambodia.
For these types of destinations, using a pre-paid travel card is a good solution. As no travel cards support loading closed currencies like the KHR you will incur currency conversion or foreign transaction fees if you use a travel money card in Cambodia.
However, using a pre-paid travel card is still a good idea as you can avoid ATM fees and also you can avoid using (and losing!) your main bank or debit/credit card.
Cambodia: Travel Guide
Traveling to Cambodia requires careful financial planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate currency considerations and manage your money effectively during your visit.
Cambodia is a relatively small country located in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. The capital and largest city is Phnom Penh, with a population of around 2.2 million people.
Cambodia is a popular tourist destination due to its many temples and ruins, including the world-famous Angkor Wat. The country also has a number of beaches and islands, as well as a rich culture and history. Expats and travelers will find plenty to see and do in Cambodia, and the people are generally friendly and welcoming.
Best things to do and see in Cambodia
Some of the best things to do and see in Cambodia include visiting the country's many temples and ruins, exploring the capital city of Phnom Penh, and spending time on the beaches of Sihanoukville.
Top Travel tips for Cambodia
There are a few things to keep in mind when traveling to Cambodia:
1. visa requirements: Citizens of most countries will need to obtain a visa before travelling to Cambodia. Visas can be obtained from Cambodian embassies or consulates, or upon arrival at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap International Airports.
2. Vaccinations: No vaccinations are required for entry into Cambodia, however it is recommended that you are up-to-date on your routine vaccinations, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), and influenza.
3. Language: The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, however English is also widely spoken, particularly in major cities and tourist areas.
4. Money: The currency of Cambodia is the Riel (KHR), however US Dollars (USD) are also widely accepted. ATM's are readily available in major cities, and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.
5. Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Cambodia, however it is appreciated for good service.
6. Electricity: The electrical voltage in Cambodia is 220 volts. adapters are required for devices that use a different voltage.
7. Weather: Cambodia has a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons: the wet season (May-October) and the dry season (November-April). The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, when temperatures are cooler and there is less chance of rain.
What's the best way to pay in Cambodia?
The best way to pay in Cambodia is to use cash. Credit cards are not widely accepted, andATMs are not always reliable.
Everyday Costs in in Cambodia
How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in Cambodia? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide: Cambodia (ISO Code: KH)
Travelers planning a mid-range stay in Cambodia for one week should budget approximately $400 to $700 USD, depending on individual spending habits. This amount covers accommodations, meals, local transport, and activities. Here’s a breakdown of typical daily expenses in Cambodian Riel (KHR) to help guide your planning:
- 🍜 Meal at a local restaurant: 10,000 - 20,000 KHR ($2.50 - $5)
- ☕ Coffee: 5,000 KHR ($1.25)
- 🚌 Public transport fare: 1,500 KHR ($0.38)
- 📱 Prepaid SIM card: 20,000 KHR ($5)
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: 30,000 - 50,000 KHR ($7.50 - $12.50)
Overall, Cambodia is considered a cheap destination to visit compared to the United States and the United Kingdom. While a comparable meal in the U.S. might cost around $15, and the UK average is about £10 (~$13), travelers in Cambodia can enjoy a local dining experience for just a fraction of those prices.
Expat Living in Cambodia
For expats living in Cambodia, the typical monthly living costs range approximately from $600 to $1,200 USD, depending on lifestyle choices and location within the country. Essential expenses include rent, utilities, groceries, and leisure activities. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around 400,000 KHR ($100), while groceries and dining out can vary significantly depending on preferences.
When it comes to banking, using local banks for day-to-day transactions is advisable, but always check for the latest exchange rates. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but carrying cash is crucial in rural areas and local markets. For sending and receiving money internationally, services like Wise or OFX often provide better exchange rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks. However, it’s still wise to exchange some money locally for convenience and to avoid potential transaction fees.
USD/KHR Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/KHR change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Recent Cambodian riel Market News
The US imposed a 49% reciprocal tariff rate on goods from Cambodia as part of Trump’s growing trade war with countries around the world.
The outlook for emerging Asian currencies is worsening again after US President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on China, curbing optimism that his threats were mainly bargaining ploys.
For more KHR information read our News and guides to the Cambodian riel.
Send Money to Cambodia - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to Cambodia you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to Cambodia
When sending money to Cambodia it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Cambodian riel amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted KHR amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in Cambodia.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Cambodian riel deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in Cambodia
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Cambodian riel currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the KHR exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Cambodian riel bank account: A local KHR bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in Cambodia. It may also be more convenient to use a local KHR bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in Cambodia. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in Cambodia. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in Cambodia, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in Cambodia.
How is the cost of living in Cambodia?
Cambodia has a relatively low cost of living. Expenses such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive when compared to other countries.
How is the expat life in Cambodia?
Expat life in Cambodia can be quite comfortable, although there are some challenges. Many expats live in Phnom Penh, the capital, where there are international schools and hospitals. Cost of living is relatively low, and English is widely spoken. However, Cambodia is a developing country, so there are some infrastructure issues.
Any laws in Cambodia that foreigners should be aware of?
Traffic laws in Cambodia are notoriously lax, and many drivers do not adhere to basic safety regulations. As a result, traffic accidents are relatively common. Foreign visitors should exercise caution when driving or crossing the street. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local scams and frauds, as there have been reports of travelers being targeted by scammers.
What is doing business like in Cambodia?
The business climate in Cambodia is generally good, but there are some challenges that investors may face when doing business in the country. One of the main challenges is the lack of skilled labor. There is also a lack of infrastructure, which can make it difficult to move goods and services around the country. Corruption is also a problem in Cambodia, and businesses may have to pay bribes to get things done.
How is the economy in Cambodia?
The economy in Cambodia is in a period of transition. After decades of conflict and international isolation, Cambodia is emerging as a lower-middle income country with high economic growth. The tourism, garment, construction, and agriculture sectors are the main drivers of growth. The economic growth has led to increased foreign investment and expanding trade.