What Currency Does Ethiopia Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 159.76 ETB
1 GBP ≈ 214.17 ETB
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to Ethiopia? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Ethiopian birr spending.
What is money called in Ethiopia?
Money in Ethiopia is called the Ethiopian birr — its ISO 4217 currency code is ETB, and its symbol is Br. The Ethiopian birr is the official legal tender in Ethiopia 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 Ethiopia currency or simply money in Ethiopia.
Is the Ethiopian birr used anywhere else?
No — Ethiopia is the only country on this site using the Ethiopian birr as its official currency.
Practical money tips for Ethiopia
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Ethiopian birr 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.
Planning to visit Ethiopia?
This site is a member of the CJ Affiliate and AWIN affiliate networks. We earn commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Rent a Car in Ethiopia — Book Now, Pay at Pickup
Compare car hire prices and reserve with no upfront payment via Carla.
Find Cheap Flights to Ethiopia with Ovago
Search hundreds of airlines for the best airfare.
Money essentials for Ethiopia
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We are also a member of the CJ Affiliate and AWIN affiliate networks. Links below are affiliate links.
Ethiopia currency — FAQ
What is the currency of Ethiopia?
The currency of Ethiopia is the Ethiopian birr (currency code: ETB, symbol: Br).
What is the currency code for Ethiopia?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Ethiopian birr is ETB.
What is the Ethiopian birr symbol?
The symbol for the Ethiopian birr is Br. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout Ethiopia.
What currency is used in Ethiopia?
The official currency used in Ethiopia is the Ethiopian birr (ETB).
Can I use US dollars in Ethiopia?
The official currency of Ethiopia is the Ethiopian birr, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Ethiopian birr and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for Ethiopia?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 159.76 ETB and 1 GBP = 214.17 ETB. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in Ethiopia?
Money in Ethiopia is called the Ethiopian birr (ETB).
Do other countries use the Ethiopian birr?
No — Ethiopia is the only country on this site using the Ethiopian birr as its official currency.
This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Last updated: