ABA Bank remains Cambodia's leading bank in 2025

ABA Bank announced it has maintained its position as Cambodia's leading bank in 2025, with total assets of $16.2 billion. This figure confirms sustained growth and financial strength that benefits Cambodia's entire economy. The bank, owned by the National Bank of Canada group, continues to invest in its digital services.

If you're an expat in Siem Reap, ABA Bank is likely already your bank. Its stability is an asset for managing your finances daily: international transfers, paying your rent, withdrawals without excessive fees. The bank offers a mobile app in English and French, which simplifies everyday operations.

In this article, we detail what this leadership means for you, how to open an account, and what sets ABA apart from alternatives.

ABA Bank is Cambodia's largest commercial bank. Here are the essential facts:

• Total assets: $16.2 billion in 2025, up from 2024.
• Shareholder: National Bank of Canada, a solid Canadian banking group.
• Mobile app: ABA Mobile, available in English and French, enables transfers, bill payments, and account management.
• Network: Over 100 branches throughout Cambodia, including several in Siem Reap.
• Services for expats: Accounts in USD and KHR, international Visa cards, SWIFT transfers.

ABA Bank is an excellent choice for expats in Siem Reap, especially compared to European banks.

Strengths:

• Fast account opening (30 minutes) with passport and visa, no complex proof of residence required.
• Well-designed mobile app in French, which is rare in Cambodia.
• Competitive international transfers: fees around $5 to $10 per transfer, 1 to 3 business days. In Europe, a SEPA transfer often costs €0 and arrives in 1 day, but for transfers outside the eurozone, fees are similar.

Weaknesses:

• Exchange rates for USD/KHR conversions are not always the best.
• Withdrawals at other banks' ATMs can cost $0.50 per transaction.
• No standard joint account for unmarried couples.

In summary, ABA is a good deal for daily life in Cambodia, but for larger amounts, compare with Wise or Revolut for transfers.

If you don't yet have an ABA account, here's what to do:

1. Visit an ABA Bank branch in Siem Reap (for example, near the Old Market or on Sivatha Boulevard).
2. Bring your passport and visa (tourist visa or ordinary visa).
3. Fill out the account opening form: the agent will assist you in English or French.
4. Initial deposit: $50 minimum for a current account.
5. Activate the ABA Mobile app: download it from the App Store or Google Play, follow the instructions.
6. For international transfers: use the app, select "International Transfer", enter the recipient's SWIFT details. Fees are displayed before confirmation.

Remember to activate your card for online payments from the app.

• Withdrawal fees at non-ABA ATMs: $0.50 per withdrawal. Prefer ABA ATMs (free).
• Double conversion: If you withdraw KHR with a foreign card, the exchange rate can be unfavorable. Use a USD ABA account to withdraw USD.
• Withdrawal limits: $500 per day at ATMs, $2,000 per day at branches. For larger amounts, notify your advisor.
• Account closure: If you leave Cambodia, remember to close your account to avoid monthly maintenance fees (around $2).

ABA Bank is ideal for expats and digital nomads based in Siem Reap who need a reliable local bank with a French-language app and simple international transfers. It's a good deal for everyday management.

On the other hand, if you're looking for favorable exchange rates for large amounts, or prefer a fee-free online bank, combine ABA with Wise or Revolut.

For retirees, ABA's stability (owned by a Canadian bank) is a reassuring asset. Open an account as soon as you arrive in Siem Reap.