Northern Mariana Islands, with their stunning beaches and blend of Pacific and American cultures, offer a relaxed tropical vibe – but understanding money in the Northern Mariana Islands and how currency works is important to avoid surprises. Whether you’re exploring Saipan, shopping for local crafts, or booking diving trips, knowing how to pay makes all the difference. This guide covers what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in the Northern Mariana Islands (US Dollar – USD), safety tips for using cash and cards, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you can enjoy your island time without money worries.
How to pay in Northern Mariana Islands – cash or card?
The Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan, Tinian, Rota) operate much like the broader United States in terms of payment options. Cards are widely accepted in tourist hubs. Cash is important for smaller or rural purchases. The U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency.
You can use cash for:
- Public Transportation: Shuttle buses, small taxis, and local transport often require cash.
- Street Vendors and Markets: Farmers’ markets and small stands prefer cash.
- Small Businesses: Local cafés, snack shops, and small service providers may not take cards.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Budget accommodations may be cash-only.
- Tips and Gratuities: Cash tips are common for hospitality and tour services.
- Outer Islands: Electronic payment options are limited.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: All major hotels and resorts accept Visa and Mastercard.
- Restaurants: Most sit-down restaurants in tourist areas take cards.
- Retail Stores: Larger stores, supermarkets, and malls accept cards.
- Car Rentals and Tours: Cards are the standard for bookings and deposits.
- Online Bookings: Flights, hotels, and activities can be paid for online by card.
What’s the best currency to take to Northern Mariana Islands?
The United States Dollar (USD) is the official and only accepted currency in the Northern Mariana Islands. There’s no need to exchange money if you bring USD.
Other currencies like Euros, Pounds, or Yen are not accepted, and money exchange services are extremely limited or non-existent.
Where to get currency in Northern Mariana Islands?
There are 2 main ways to get cash in Northern Mariana Islands. They are:
- ATMs, or
- One bank for currency exchange, or
Types of cards to swipe in Northern Mariana Islands
Establishments with POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Northern Mariana Islands
If you’re withdrawing money in Northern Mariana Islands from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus, CUP, Maestro cards. Others like JCB, American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Northern Mariana Islands?
The Northern Mariana Islands use the US Dollar (USD), so if you’re traveling from the U.S., you won’t need to exchange currency. If you’re coming from another country, it’s best to bring some USD cash for initial expenses.
ATMs are available in Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, and most accept Visa and Mastercard. Cirrus and Plus may also be supported, but ATM availability can be limited in remote areas – so plan ahead and check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
Currency exchange options are limited, so bring USD in small denominations. Most businesses accept cards, but some small shops, taxis, and rural vendors are cash-only.
Where to withdraw money in Northern Mariana Islands
You can withdraw money in Northern Mariana Islands at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Northern Mariana Islands are those owned by popular banks such as:
- Bank of Guam,
- First Hawaiian Bank, and
- Bank of Hawaii.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Northern Mariana Islands.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Northern Mariana Islands.
Where to exchange currency in Northern Mariana Islands
There are no separate exchange houses or bureaux on the islands; currency exchange typically happens at banks or airport kiosks, or you simply use your card at an ATM.
Bring decent amounts of USD cash before traveling. While local ATMs can dispense USD, having cash on hand – especially for small vendors or remote islands is wise.
You can find good currency exchanges in Northern Mariana Islands 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 Northern Mariana Islands. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Is carrying cash in Northern Mariana Islands safe?
Carrying cash in the Northern Mariana Islands is safe overall, but it’s still a good idea to stay cautious in more crowded areas like Garapan in Saipan. While cards are accepted in hotels and larger stores, cash is still essential for many local businesses.
To carry cash safely in the Northern Mariana Islands:
- Carry modest amounts of cash for daily expenses – store the rest securely at your accommodation.
- Use a crossbody bag or wallet that zips shut for extra peace of mind.
- Avoid showing large amounts of cash in public or while paying street vendors.
- Use ATMs in secure locations like banks, malls, or hotel lobbies.
- Keep small denominations for taxis, food trucks, and market shopping.
- While urban areas accept cards, rural islands or remote beaches often require cash.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Northern Mariana Islands
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.
