Bakong Tourists App: How International Travelers Pay via KHQR in Cambodia

By Sophea Chan Sep 18, 2026 5 min read

Historically, traveling in Cambodia required carrying crisp US Dollar bills or exchanging bundles of Khmer Riel. In late 2024, the National Bank of Cambodia launched the Bakong Tourists App, allowing foreign visitors to participate directly in Cambodia’s cashless revolution.

How It Works

  1. Download the Bakong Tourists app from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store upon arrival.
  2. Register using your passport and a selfie verification.
  3. Top up your wallet using international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, or UnionPay).
  4. Scan any merchant’s standard KHQR sticker at street food carts, tuk-tuks, coffee shops, and hotels.

Why It’s a Game Changer for Tourists

Tourists no longer need to worry about rejected torn dollar bills or receiving mixed change. Transactions are debited seamlessly with zero merchant fees.

Bakong KHQR Fintech
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can tourists withdraw cash from the Bakong Tourists app?

Remaining funds can be spent down or refunded back to the originating international credit or debit card before departure.

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