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Money & Currency in Micronesia: The Ultimate Travel Guide

money and currency in Micronesia

Micronesia’s scattered islands, coral reefs, and rich traditions offer a truly off-the-grid travel experience – but handling money in Micronesia and knowing how currency works is crucial due to limited access to banks and ATMs. Whether you’re diving in Chuuk Lagoon, staying in small guesthouses, or buying local crafts, planning your payments ahead is essential. This guide explains what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Micronesia (US Dollar – USD), tips for cash safety, and key dos and don’ts. With this knowledge, you’ll navigate Micronesia confidently and focus on the adventure.

How to pay in Micronesia – cash or card?

In Micronesia, cash remains the primary way travelers pay for nearly all services, especially outside the most developed areas. U.S. dollars is the official currency in use. So while cards are accepted at certain establishments, reliance on cash is much higher.

You can use cash for:

  • Public Transportation: Taxis, small boats, and buses are cash-only.
  • Street Vendors and Markets: All local markets and food stalls take cash.
  • Small Businesses: Local shops, cafés, and services require cash.
  • Hostels and Guesthouses: Budget stays usually accept cash only.
  • Tips and Gratuities: Cash tips are appreciated for drivers, guides, and hotel staff.
  • Outer Islands: Cash is the only payment method available.

You can use card for:

  • Hotels: Larger hotels on main islands like Pohnpei and Chuuk may accept cards, but confirm ahead.
  • Retail Stores: A few larger stores in urban centers might take cards.
  • Online Bookings: Flights and some hotels can be paid in advance by card.

What’s the best currency to take to Micronesia?

The United States Dollar (USD) is the official and only accepted currency in the Federated States of Micronesia. There’s no need to exchange money if you’re bringing USD.

Other currencies like Euros, Pounds, or AUD are not accepted, and you won’t find any money exchange services for them on the islands.

Where to get currency in Micronesia?

There are 3 main ways to get cash in Micronesia. They are:

  • ATMs, or
  • Banks for currency exchange, or
  • Money transfer & local pick-up

Types of cards to swipe in Micronesia

Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.

Types of cards at ATMs in Micronesia

If you’re withdrawing money in Micronesia from an ATM, ATMs in Marshall Islands Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus, JCB and American Express cards. Others such as CUP, Maestro, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.

Should I exchange money before travelling to Micronesia?

It’s essential to bring enough US Dollars (USD) before traveling to Micronesia, as USD is the official currency, and banking infrastructure is limited, particularly outside capital areas.

ATMs are available in larger towns like Pohnpei, Chuuk, and Kosrae, but may not always be reliable or compatible with foreign cards. Visa and Mastercard are most commonly accepted – Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro support may vary, so check with your bank in advance.

Currency exchange is not widely available, so you should arrive with sufficient USD in cash, ideally in small denominations, as change may be difficult to obtain.

Carry a secure pouch or money belt and plan your cash needs for your entire stay. Most small shops, taxis, and local services are cash-only, and cards are only accepted at select hotels and larger stores.

Where to withdraw money in Micronesia

You can withdraw money in Micronesia at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Micronesia is that by Bank of Guam. There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Micronesia.

For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Micronesia.

Where to exchange currency in Micronesia

There are no major exchange bureaus in Micronesia. Foreign currency exchange is rarely available outside of select bank branches in major towns like Pohnpei, Chuuk, and Kosrae.

You can use Popular Banks Offering Currency Exchange Services are Bank of the Federated States of Micronesia and Bank of Guam. These banks provide limited exchange services and are typically open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Tip: Bring sufficient USD cash before you arrive. Credit card acceptance is very limited and often restricted to major hotels or airlines. Always keep small denominations for local use.

You can find good currency exchanges in Micronesia using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 160+ countries, including Micronesia. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.

Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: They have the highest fees and poorest exchange rates. Wait to get to the city to exchange cash.

Is carrying cash in Micronesia safe?

Carrying cash in Micronesia is essential, especially on outer islands where ATMs and card-accepting businesses are very limited. Crime rates are low, but you’ll need to be self-sufficient with cash and take care not to lose it.
To manage cash safely in Micronesia:

  • Bring enough US Dollars for your full stay, especially when traveling beyond main hubs like Pohnpei or Chuuk.
  • Divide your cash across a wallet, money belt, or secure pouch.
  • Avoid carrying all your money on your person while exploring.
  • Keep your cash in sealed bags or containers to protect from humidity or water exposure (especially on boat trips).
  • Withdraw money only from trusted ATMs at banks or major hotels – options may be limited.
  • Expect to use cash for nearly all local transactions, including accommodation, food, and transport.

Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Micronesia

Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.

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