Cambodia (KH)
Affordable Southeast Asian base with easy daily life, a large Phnom Penh and Siem Reap expat scene, strong NGO/tourism/education networks, fast digital payments, and visa rules that are flexible but increasingly document-driven.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Cambodia.
Denominations
Riel notes are commonly 100, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000. US dollars circulate widely for larger payments.
Payment Culture
Cambodia is a dual-currency cash economy: small payments are usually in riel, larger rent/school/deposit prices are often quoted in USD. ABA KHQR, Bakong-linked transfers, cards in malls, and cash all coexist.
ATM Tips
ATMs commonly dispense USD and sometimes riel. Foreign-card fees are common, often USD 4-6 per withdrawal. Keep clean, untorn USD notes; damaged notes can be refused.
Exchange Tips
The market convention is around KHR 4,000-4,100 per USD 1. Pay small shops in riel when possible and keep USD notes crisp for rent, visas, and large purchases.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents