French Polynesia Currency Guide: Explore with the CFP franc
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in French Polynesia with the CFP franc
What's in this French Polynesia currency guide?
What currency is used in French Polynesia?
The official currency of French Polynesia (country code: PF) is the CFP franc, with symbol F and currency code XPF.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in French Polynesia?
The domestic currency in French Polynesia is the CFP franc.
What is the CFP franc currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the CFP franc is XPF — symbol is F.
What doe the CFP franc look like?
Here is an example CFP franc banknote:
Which countries use the CFP franc?
It is the domestic currency in French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Wallis and Futuna Islands.
Is the CFP franc a closed currency?
No, the CFP franc is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and XPF?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to XPF (US dollar to CFP franc)*.
*Converted at the current USDXPF interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Things to know about the CFP franc
The CFP franc (XPF) is the currency of four French overseas collectives (collectivités d'outre-mer, or COM) that include French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Wallis and Futuna. The CFP franc is also referred to as the franc pacifique since it is used in the Pacific Ocean region. The initials CFP originally stood for Colonies Françaises du Pacifique (“French colonies of the Pacific”). As with the old French franc the CFP franc is broken into subunits called centimes.
Travel money for French Polynesia
Using Wise for CFP franc travel money is a smart choice for savvy travelers. With its competitive exchange rates and low fees, Wise allows you to convert and manage multiple currencies effortlessly.
Be careful when using your own bank's Debit/Credit Card, as your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash on top of the standard Visa/Mastercard 2.5% from market mid-rate.
For card purchases, if you are offered a choice of currencies always select to Pay in CFP franc otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want CFP franc cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the XPF cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Describe French Polynesia for travelers and expats
French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of the French Republic, is located in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous being Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, and the Society Islands. These islands are renowned for their pristine beaches, lagoons, and coral reefs. They attract tourists from all over the world seeking a relaxed, luxury vacation. The capital, Papeete, is located on Tahiti, and the currency is the French Pacific franc.
French Polynesia is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking an luxurious, relaxing vacation in a beautiful setting. The islands offer stunning beaches, lagoons, and coral reefs, as well as a vibrant culture and warm, friendly people. Papeete, the capital, is a great place to start your exploration of French Polynesia.
Best things to do and see in French Polynesia
-Explore the ruins of ancient Polynesian temples
-Visit the black sand beaches of Tahiti
- Swim with dolphins in Moorea
- Hike through the rainforest in Bora Bora
- Go snorkeling or scuba diving in the Clear waters
- Take a submarine tour of the coral reefs
- Watch the sunset from the top of a volcanic crater
Top Travel tips for French Polynesia
When travelling to French Polynesia, it is important to remember that the climate is tropical and the weather can be very hot and humid. It is recommended to wear loose, comfortable clothing and to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Zika virus. There is no vaccination required for either of these diseases, but it is important to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
What currency should I use in French Polynesia?
The CFP franc (XPF) is the currency of four French overseas collectives (collectivités d'outre-mer, or COM) that include French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Wallis and Futuna.
The CFP franc is also referred to as the franc pacifique since it is used in the Pacific Ocean region. The initials CFP originally stood for Colonies Françaises du Pacifique (“French colonies of the Pacific”). As with the old French franc the CFP franc is broken into subunits called centimes.
There is a bank and ATM at Faa'a International Airport so you can exchange or withdraw money when you arrive. Hotels also exchange currency but at a much worse rate. However, most credit cards a widely accepted across most islands so you wont have withdraw huge amounts at any one time. Although once you get to the smaller, more isolated atolls such as Manihi and Fakarava, you will most likely need to carry cash for the stores, restaurants and pensions located away from the major resorts. ATMs are easier to find in Tahiti than on the smaller surrounding islands. All major international credit cards are accepted in Tahiti. Some Tahitian banks are open on Saturday morning.
Is it safe in French Polynesia?
Yes, French Polynesia is a safe destination for travelers.
USD/XPF Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/XPF change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Send Money to French Polynesia - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to French Polynesia 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 French Polynesia
When sending money to French Polynesia 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 CFP franc 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 XPF amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in French Polynesia.
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 CFP franc deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in French Polynesia
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 CFP franc currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the XPF 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 CFP franc bank account: A local XPF bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in French Polynesia. It may also be more convenient to use a local XPF 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 French Polynesia. 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 French Polynesia. 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 French Polynesia, 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 French Polynesia.
What is the cost of living in French Polynesia?
There isn't an official cost of living in French Polynesia, as it can vary greatly depending on lifestyle and location. However, according to Numbeo, the average cost of living in Tahiti (the largest and most populous island in French Polynesia) is about 25% higher than the average cost of living in France.
How is the expat life in French Polynesia?
There is no one answer to this question as the expat life in French Polynesia can vary greatly depending on the individual and their situation. Some people may find it very difficult to adjust to living in a remote and isolated location, while others may feel right at home and enjoy the relaxed lifestyle.
Any laws in French Polynesia that foreigners should be aware of?
The legal drinking age in French Polynesia is 18. There is a zero tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol.
What is doing business like in French Polynesia?
There is no easy answer when it comes to the question of what it is like to do business in French Polynesia. The country is made up of a number of different islands, each with its own unique culture and customs. What works in one area might not work in another, and what is acceptable in one island might not be tolerated in another. In general, however, the country is open to foreign investment and business opportunities. The government is supportive of private enterprise and there are a number of tax incentives and other benefits available to businesses operating in French Polynesia. The legal and regulatory framework is relatively simple and efficient, and there is a well-developed infrastructure in place. Overall, doing business in French Polynesia is an attractive option for many businesses.
How is the economy in French Polynesia?
The economy in French Polynesia is going well. The unemployment rate is low and the GDP per capita is high. The main industries are tourism, fishing, and agriculture.