Currency and Payment System
Currency
The official currency of Timor-Leste is the US Dollar (USD).
🪙 Coins: For transactions below $1, centavo coins are commonly used.
🔄 Coin Exchange: Centavo coins can be exchanged at a machine located in the BCTL (Central Bank of Timor-Leste) front office.
💵 Currency Exchange:
• No exchange services are available at Dili International Airport—plan ahead!
• Street money exchangers can be found near Palácio do Governo (Government Palace) in Dili. However, exchange rates are negotiable and may vary.
• For secure and reliable exchange rates, it’s recommended to visit:
✅ BNCTL Bank (Timor Plaza)
✅ Mandiri Bank
✅ BRI Bank
✅ BNU Bank
✅ MoneyGram (Timor Plaza)
Tip: Always carry small denominations, as breaking larger bills can be difficult, especially in rural areas.
Banks and ATMs
Banking services are available in major towns, but access can be limited in rural areas.
Major Banks in Dili:
🏛️ BNCTL
🏛️ BNU
🏛️ Mandiri
🏛️ BRI
🏛️ ANZ
🏧 ATMs: Widely available in Dili and other major towns but scarce in rural areas.
Tip: Ensure you withdraw enough cash before traveling to remote districts.
Card Acceptance
Credit and Debit cards acceptance is limited, so plan accordingly. Accepted Cards:
✅ Visa: Works at major hotels, restaurants, and shops in Dili.
✅ UnionPay: Convenient for longer stays.
❌ MasterCard: Not accepted anywhere in Timor-Leste.
🏧 ATMs: Most ATMs in Dili accept Visa cards only.
🏢 EFPOS Availability: Limited to larger hotels, tour operators, and dive companies.
📌 Districts: ATMs, Banks, and credit card facilities are rare outside Dili.
Tip: Carry cash in small denominations, as larger bills may not be accepted.
E-Wallet
Cashless payment systems are emerging in urban areas:
Popular Platforms:
📲 Mosan by Telemor
📲 T-Pay by Telkomsel
Tip: These platforms are mainly useful in cities like Dili. Carry cash when traveling to rural areas where digital payments are not widely accepted.