Myanmar
Money in Myanmar: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use the Myanmar kyat for most purchases; bring enough cash (≈ 30 USD per day) because ATMs and cards are unreliable, and tip modestly (≈ 5–10 % of a restaurant bill).
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GuideMyanmar
Key facts
- Currency
- Myanmar kyat (MMK)
- Cash necessity
- High – bring sufficient cash
- Typical tipcheck
- 5–10 % of restaurant bill or small rounding up
Currency and cash
Myanmar uses the kyat (MMK). Banknotes are issued in 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 MMK; coins are rare. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check a converter before you go. ATMs are limited to major cities and often out of service; many accept only local cards. Bring enough US dollars or euros to exchange at banks or licensed exchange bureaus.
Cash is the primary payment method for transport, markets, small hotels and street food. A daily budget of about 30 USD (≈ 45,000 MMK) in cash is a practical minimum for most travellers.
- Carry small denominations for easy change.
- Use official exchange offices or bank counters; avoid street changers.
Cards and ATMs
International credit and debit cards work in a few ATMs in Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw, but outages are common. Fees may be high and daily limits low. If your card is accepted, expect a 2–3 % surcharge. Keep a backup card and a printed list of emergency numbers from your bank.
- Test your card at a hotel lobby before relying on it.
- Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid blocks.
Tipping in Myanmar
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, round the bill up or leave about 5–10 % for good service. For hotel staff, a small tip of 1,000–2,000 MMK per night is common. Guides and drivers typically receive 5,000–10,000 MMK per day, depending on the quality of service.
- Carry small notes for tips; large bills are hard to break.
- If unsure, ask the hotel concierge for local tipping norms.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Myanmar?
The official currency is the Myanmar kyat (MMK).
Should I use cash or a card in Myanmar?
Cash is essential; ATMs and card acceptance are limited to major cities and can be unreliable.
How much should I tip in Myanmar?
Tip about 5–10% in restaurants, 1,000–2,000 MMK per night for hotel staff, and 5,000–10,000 MMK per day for guides or drivers.
Can I exchange US dollars at the airport?
Yes, Yangon and Mandalay airports have licensed exchange counters. Keep your exchange receipt for re-conversion.
Are there any restrictions on bringing foreign currency into Myanmar?
You can bring any amount of foreign currency, but amounts over 10,000 USD must be declared on arrival.
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