South America
Money, cards and tipping in Venezuela
VESBolivar Soberano
Money in Venezuela
Mostly cash US dollars in small, clean notes are the everyday currency, with bolívars for small change. Foreign cards work in some hotels and shops, often not. US$1 ≈ Bs871.37 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants, often paid in US dollars; check whether service is already on the bill.
- ATMs: ATMs give tiny bolívar amounts and rarely work for foreign cards. Bring all the US cash needed.
- Paying by phone: Locals use Pago Móvil and Zelle, which need Venezuelan or US bank accounts; visitors rely on dollar cash.
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Caracas | Mostly cash | Small, clean US dollar notes are the everyday currency; bolívars for change. Foreign cards work in some hotels and malls only; ATMs rarely work. |
| Mérida | Mostly cash | Dollar cash in small notes is king; bolívars for change. Cards and ATMs rarely work for foreigners, so bring all the cash you need. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Venezuela?
10% is customary in restaurants, often paid in US dollars; check whether service is already on the bill.
Is Venezuela cashless?
Mostly cash. US dollars in small, clean notes are the everyday currency, with bolívars for small change. Foreign cards work in some hotels and shops, often not.
What currency does Venezuela use?
The Bolivar Soberano (VES). US$1 ≈ Bs871.37 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Venezuela
- SAIME (immigration)
- Speedtest Global Index: Venezuela
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.