Timor-Leste’s rugged coastlines, mountain landscapes, and rich culture offer an emerging travel experience – but handling money in Timor-Leste and understanding how currency works is essential for a smooth visit. Whether you’re diving in Atauro, staying in local guesthouses, or shopping in Dili’s markets, knowing how to pay is key. This guide explains what currency to bring, how to get money and currency in Timor-Leste (US Dollar – USD), cash safety tips, and important dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid financial surprises and enjoy this off-the-radar destination with confidence.
How to pay in Timor-Leste – cash or card?
In Timor‑Leste, cash is the main way to pay for most transactions. The country uses U.S. dollars as its official currency, and most local businesses, markets, and services rely on cash. Some hotels and tour operators in Dili may accept cards.
You can use cash for:
- Public Transportation: Microlets (minibuses), taxis, and intercity buses are cash-only.
- Street Vendors and Markets: All open-air markets and small stalls operate on cash.
- Small Businesses: Local eateries, shops, and services typically prefer cash.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Most budget accommodations are cash-only.
- Tips and Gratuities: Cash tips are common for guides, drivers, and hospitality staff.
- Rural Areas: Card facilities are virtually non-existent outside Dili.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: Some mid-range and upscale hotels in Dili accept cards.
- Restaurants: A handful of higher-end restaurants in Dili may take cards, but confirm first.
- Retail Stores: Only a few larger shops in the capital accept cards.
- Car Rentals and Tours: Established operators in Dili may accept cards.
- Online Bookings: International flights and some hotels can be booked online by card.
What’s the best currency to take to Timor-Leste?
The United States Dollar (USD) is the official and most widely accepted currency in Timor-Leste. It’s the best currency to bring and use throughout your trip.
Although Timor-Leste has its own local coins (centavos), all banknotes are in USD, and all businesses accept USD. There’s no need to exchange money if you’re already carrying dollars.
Other currencies like Euros or AUD are not accepted for direct payment.
Where to get currency in Timor-Leste?
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Timor-Leste. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Timor-Leste
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 Timor-Leste
If you’re withdrawing money in Timor-Leste from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa and Plus cards. Some of them accept Mastercard or Plus, Cirrus and Maestro cards. Others such as CUP, JCB, American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Timor-Leste?
Timor-Leste uses the US Dollar (USD) as its official currency, so if you’re traveling from the U.S., there’s no need to exchange money. Travelers from other countries should bring USD in cash, especially in small denominations for convenience.
ATMs are available in Dili and some larger towns, and most accept Visa and Mastercard, though service can be unreliable. Cash is still the most reliable payment method, especially outside urban areas.
Currency exchange services are limited, so it’s best to arrive with enough USD to cover your entire stay. Avoid relying on exchanging other currencies on the ground.
Where to withdraw money in Timor-Leste
You can withdraw money in Timor-Leste at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Timor-Leste are those owned by popular banks such as:
- BNCTL,
- Mandiri Bank, and
- BNU Timor.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Timor-Leste.
Where to exchange currency in Timor-Leste
Common places to exchange currency in Timor-Leste are licenced exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency exchange offices: In Dili, you’ll find several private money changers around the Lecidere and Colmera districts. These offer competitive rates for exchanging AUD, EUR, or IDR into USD.
Banks: Banks such as BNCTL (Banco Nacional de Comércio de Timor-Leste), ANZ, and Mandiri also offer currency exchange services. Hours are typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Pro Tip: Carry smaller USD denominations, as change can be hard to come by for larger bills in shops and taxis. Avoid exchanging at the airport where rates can be poor.
You can find good currency exchanges in Timor-Leste 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 Timor-Leste. 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 Timor-Leste safe?
Carrying cash in Timor-Leste is essential, as credit card acceptance is limited and many areas – especially rural ones – lack reliable banking infrastructure. While crime rates are moderate, travelers should still take precautions when handling money.
To carry cash safely in Timor-Leste:
- Bring enough US Dollars (the official currency) for your full stay, especially if heading outside Dili.
- Store your cash in multiple secure locations like a money belt, wallet, or zipped bag.
- Avoid flashing large sums of money in public or at markets.
- Use ATMs located inside banks or hotels, and avoid withdrawing money at night.
- Carry small denominations, as many local vendors and drivers won’t have change.
- Be discreet and stay aware in busy areas like the Dili waterfront or local bus stations.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Timor-Leste
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.
