Cash withdrawals from automated teller machines (ATMs) in Cambodia typically dispense US dollars, the predominant currency for most transactions. While Cambodian riel is the official currency, ATMs generally provide USD in varying denominations, often prioritizing $100 and $50 bills. The maximum withdrawal amount per transaction varies depending on the specific ATM and the user’s bank card limits. It is common to encounter limits ranging from $200 to $500 per transaction, though some ATMs may offer higher limits. One should be aware that transaction fees, charged by both the local ATM and the cardholder’s bank, are common.
Access to readily available US dollars through a widespread ATM network simplifies financial transactions for residents and visitors. This accessibility facilitates daily expenses, larger purchases, and emergency fund access. The prevalence of USD alongside the local currency has a complex historical context tied to periods of economic instability and the subsequent dollarization of the Cambodian economy. This dual-currency system has made ATM access crucial for convenient cash flow management.
