Timor-Leste Currency Guide
The currency of Timor-Leste and how to prepare for payments — all on one page.
Currency
US Dollar
USD · $
Checking rates
Check with your bank app or card issuer before you go
The rate and fees you actually pay differ by bank and card issuer.
Payment Tips to Remember
Always pay in the local currency
If a terminal asks whether to charge in your home currency, always choose the local currency. Choosing your home currency triggers DCC (dynamic currency conversion), which adds a hidden markup.
Set up a travel card before you fly
Prepaid multi-currency travel cards let you convert money in the app beforehand and pay like a debit card locally. Fees are usually lower than cash exchange counters, and you can freeze the card instantly from the app if lost.
Airport exchange counters: last resort
Airport counters are convenient but tend to offer some of the worst rates. If you need cash, exchange via your bank's app before departure or consider withdrawing from a local ATM.
Check ATM fees on screen
Local ATMs may add their own operator fee. Check the fee shown on the confirmation screen before proceeding. If the ATM offers conversion to your home currency (DCC), choosing the local currency is usually better.
Keep some small cash
Every country has places that don't take cards — markets, tips, small transport. Carrying a small amount of cash in separate places keeps you covered.
Cards for Abroad
Explore the Wise multi-currency card
One account holding 40+ currencies, converting and paying at mid-market based rates. Handy for multi-country trips — no need to exchange for each currency separately.
Learn more
Local data
Get an eSIM for Timor-Leste before you go
Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.
Airalo
Yesim
Saily
Drimsim
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.
City Guides in Timor-Leste
Dili
Dili is the capital and largest city of Timor-Leste, a major port city on the northern coast of Timor Island. It showcases both its history dating back to the Portuguese colonial era and its role as a commercial center.
Baucau
Baucau is a city in eastern Timor-Leste and the country's second largest after the capital, Dili. Traces of the Portuguese colonial era remain, giving it an exotic atmosphere.
Lospalos
Lospalos is the main town of Lautém district in Timor-Leste, located well to the east of the capital, Dili. It makes a convenient stop when exploring eastern Timor-Leste.
Gleno
Gleno is the center of Ermera district in Timor-Leste, situated at an elevation of over 880 meters where visitors can enjoy a cool climate. It's not far from the capital, Dili, making it easy to visit on a short trip.
Maliana
Maliana is the main town of Bobonaro district in Timor-Leste, located close to the Indonesian border. It's a quiet border town reached by traveling southwest from the capital, Dili.