What Currency Does Central African Republic Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 574.29 XAF
1 GBP ≈ 769.88 XAF
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to Central African Republic? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Central African CFA franc spending.
What is money called in Central African Republic?
Money in Central African Republic is called the Central African CFA franc — its ISO 4217 currency code is XAF, and its symbol is Fr. The Central African CFA franc is the official legal tender in Central African Republic and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the Central African Republic currency or simply money in Central African Republic.
Is the Central African CFA franc used anywhere else?
Yes — Central African CFA franc (XAF) is also used in Cameroon, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of the Congo.
Practical money tips for Central African Republic
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Central African CFA franc in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
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Central African Republic currency — FAQ
What is the currency of Central African Republic?
The currency of Central African Republic is the Central African CFA franc (currency code: XAF, symbol: Fr).
What is the currency code for Central African Republic?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Central African CFA franc is XAF.
What is the Central African CFA franc symbol?
The symbol for the Central African CFA franc is Fr. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout Central African Republic.
What currency is used in Central African Republic?
The official currency used in Central African Republic is the Central African CFA franc (XAF).
Can I use US dollars in Central African Republic?
The official currency of Central African Republic is the Central African CFA franc, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Central African CFA franc and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for Central African Republic?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 574.29 XAF and 1 GBP = 769.88 XAF. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in Central African Republic?
Money in Central African Republic is called the Central African CFA franc (XAF).
Do other countries use the Central African CFA franc?
Yes — Central African CFA franc (XAF) is also used in Cameroon, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of the Congo.
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