Learn about the official currency (USD), exchange rates, and the availability of ATMs and banking services throughout Timor-Leste. Discover tips for managing money while traveling.
The official currency : US Dollar (USD).
It is advised that you enter Timor-Leste with USD. Only visa cards are accepted in Timor-Leste, including ATM withdrawals, and they are not widely accepted for transactions. ATMs are available in built-up areas. Occasionally, mainly around national holidays, ATMs may only be restocked occasionally. Ensure you plan your cash needs to account for this.
Declare all amounts higher than $US5,000 or equivalent when you arrive and depart. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.
You need approval from the Central Bank of Timor-Leste (CBTL) to import or export more than $US10,000.
It’s illegal to import currencies other than USD above certain limits, without a permit from the CBTL.
USD banknotes issued before 2000 are not accepted.
If you import more than $US2,000 worth of Australian dollars in a calendar month, you will need approval.
Contact the Central Bank of Timor-Leste for details:
- email: info@bancocentral
- call CBTL +67 0 331 3712 or +67 0 331 3714
Most places won’t take credit cards, including hotels, shops and restaurants. Bring enough USD in cash to meet your needs.
Ask your bank if your Australian credit or debit cards work in Timor-Leste. Only visa cards are accepted in Timor-Leste; you cannot use other credit cards.
You might not be able to change Australian dollars for USD.
Banking Services
There are several banks in Dili and larger towns, providing standard banking services including ATM access, foreign currency exchange, and local transactions. Some of the main banks include:
Banco Nacional de Comercio de Timor (BNCTL)
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 08AM – 04PM – 24/7 online banking
- Contact: +670 331 2822
- Address: Avenida Presidente Nicolau Lobato, Dili, Timor-Leste
Banco Central de Timor-Leste (BCTL)
- Opening hours: (Mon-Fri), 9.30h – 12.00h 12.40h -15.30h
- Contact: +670 331 371 2 / 4 / 5 / 8
- Email: info@bancocentral.tl
- Address: Banco Central De Timor-Leste, Avenida Xavier Do Amaral P.O.BOX 59, Dili, Timor-Leste
Bank of China (Dili Branch)
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Contact: +670 332 1030
- Address: Rua Beatriz Nascimento, Dili, Timor-Leste
ANZ Bank (Timor-Leste)
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Contact: +670 331 3650
- Address: Avenida Presidente Nicolau Lobato, Dili, Timor-Leste
ATMs and Credit Cards
ATMs are available in Dili, and most major international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in larger businesses and hotels. However, in rural areas, it’s advisable to carry cash.
Currency Exchange
You can exchange foreign currency at banks, hotels, and exchange offices in Dili. Currency exchange services may be limited in rural areas, so it is recommended to exchange currency before traveling to remote regions.