Currency in Tuvalu: AUD Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in Tuvalu with the Australian dollar.
What's in this Tuvalu currency guide?
What currency is used in Tuvalu?
The official currency of Tuvalu (country code: TV) is the Australian dollar, with symbol A$ and currency code AUD.
What is a good Australian dollar 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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Good things to know about the Australian dollar
Here are some key facts about the Australian Dollar (AUD) that are particularly useful for travelers, expats, and business owners:
- Currency Denominations: Australia's currency includes banknotes in $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations, and coins in 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as $1 and $2.
- Polymer Banknotes: Introduced in 1988, Australia was the first country to use polymer banknotes, making them more durable and resistant to counterfeiting.
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): A 10% GST is applied to most products and services in Australia.
- Currency Declaration: If bringing more than $10,000 AUD (or equivalent) into Australia, you must declare it upon arrival.
- Currency Conversion: Coins cannot be reconverted upon departure, so it's advisable to spend or exchange them before leaving.
- Tipping Practices: Tipping is not compulsory in Australia; however, a gratuity of 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants if service charges are not included.
- Currency Availability: ATMs are widely available in urban areas, but facilities may be limited in remote regions.
- Currency Exchange Fees: Be aware of potential fees when exchanging currency, especially at airports or hotels, and consider using authorized outlets for better rates.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the official Australian government website. (australia.com)
For more AUD information check out our selection of Australian dollar news and guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in Tuvalu?
The domestic currency in Tuvalu is the Australian dollar.
What is the Australian dollar currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Australian dollar is AUD — symbol is A$.
What does the Australian dollar look like?
Here is an example Australian dollar banknote:
Which countries use the Australian dollar?
It is the domestic currency in Australia, Christmas Island, Cocos Keeling Islands, Heard and McDonald Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Norfolk Island and Tuvalu.
Is the Australian dollar a closed currency?
No, the Australian dollar is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and AUD?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to AUD (US dollar to Australian dollar)*.
*Converted at the current USDAUD interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Travel money for Tuvalu
Using Wise for Australian dollar 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 Australian dollar otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want Australian dollar cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the AUD cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Tuvalu: Travel Guide
Traveling to Tuvalu 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.
Tuvalu is one of the world’s most remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations. This tiny island nation in the Pacific Ocean lies just south of the Equator, west of the International Date Line, and two hours by air north of Fiji. A member of the Commonwealth, Tuvalu consists of nine islands and atolls, with Funafuti being the main atoll and home to the country’s only airstrip. Visitors are welcomed with a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival, and there’s no departure tax.
Currency in Tuvalu
Tuvalu uses the Australian dollar (AUD), supplemented by unique Tuvaluan coins featuring Queen Elizabeth II and local marine life. There are no ATMs, and credit cards are not accepted, even at hotels and guesthouses, so bring plenty of cash.
Getting Around in Tuvalu
- Funafuti (Fongafale): The best way to explore the main island is by renting a motorbike for $10 per day or hitching a ride. Helmets aren’t available, but with slow speeds and minimal traffic, it’s a safe way to get around.
- Outer Islands: Accessible only by passenger ferry from Funafuti, trips can be long, often overnight or multi-day journeys. Plan accordingly.
Language and Communication
Most Tuvaluans speak English, and signs are in English, but locals may be shy about using it. Learning a few words of Tuvaluan can help break the ice:
- Talofa: Hello
- Fafetai: Thank you
- Fetaui: See you later
Tuvalu’s isolation and simplicity make it a truly unique destination, perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful escape and authentic cultural experiences.
Everyday Costs in in Tuvalu
How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in Tuvalu? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide for Tuvalu (ISO Code: TV)
When planning a week-long mid-range stay in Tuvalu, travelers should budget approximately AUD 1,200 to AUD 1,500 (approximately 850 to 1,000 AUD for the hotel, meals, and activities, plus some cash for additional expenses). For daily expenses, here's a breakdown in the local currency, the Australian Dollar (AUD):
- 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: AUD 20-30
- ☕ Coffee: AUD 5
- 🚌 Public transport fare: AUD 5
- 📱 Prepaid SIM card: AUD 20
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: AUD 100-150 per night.
Overall, Tuvalu is considered a moderately expensive destination, especially when compared to the United States and the UK, where travelers might find costs more favorable. Expect to pay nearly 20-30% higher in Tuvalu for similar experiences, particularly dining and accommodation. However, the uniqueness of Tuvalu's culture and stunning landscapes make the investment worthwhile for many.
Expat Living in Tuvalu
For expats moving to Tuvalu, typical monthly living costs could range from AUD 2,000 to AUD 3,500, varying based on lifestyle preferences. Major expenses include rent, utilities, food, and leisure activities, with the local grocery stores often featuring higher prices for imported goods. When it comes to banking, it is advisable to maintain an account with a local bank to simplify your transactions. Credit and debit card usage is growing, but cash transactions remain prevalent, especially in local markets.
When dealing with money transfers, using local exchange services can lead to higher fees due to unfavorable rates. Instead, opting for online transfer services like Wise or OFX typically provides better conversion rates and lower transaction fees. Consider exchanging a small amount of cash for immediate needs while relying predominately on these online services for larger sums to ensure you get the best deal possible. As with any destination, doing thorough currency research and planning ahead will undoubtedly save you money in the long run.
USD/AUD Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/AUD change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Recent Australian dollar Market News
October 2, 2025
Key Developments Affecting the Australian Dollar (AUD):
1. Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Maintains Interest Rates:
- On September 30, 2025, the RBA held the cash rate steady at 3.60%, citing persistent inflation risks and economic uncertainty. (reuters.com)
2. Global Trade Tensions Impacting AUD:
- In April 2025, the AUD fell to a five-year low amid escalating global trade tensions and concerns over a potential economic recession. (reuters.com)
3. Commodity Prices Influencing Currency Valuation:
- Fluctuations in key commodities like iron ore and coal, driven by global demand, continue to affect the AUD's strength. (ig.com)
4. China's Economic Performance and Its Effect on AUD:
- As Australia's largest trading partner, China's economic health significantly influences the AUD, with potential impacts from China's economic stimulus measures. (business.nab.com.au)
Recent Developments Impacting the Australian Dollar:
For more AUD information read our News and guides to the Australian dollar.
Send Money to Tuvalu - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to Tuvalu 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 Tuvalu
When sending money to Tuvalu 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 Australian dollar 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 AUD amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in Tuvalu.
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 Australian dollar deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
