The East Caribbean dollar (XCD, symbol EC$) is the shared currency of eight English-speaking islands in the Lesser Antilles. Pegged to the US dollar, it is easy to obtain from Paris, especially by booking this uncommon currency in advance.
A currency shared by eight Caribbean territories
The East Caribbean dollar is issued by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and circulates in eight member states and territories of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States: Saint Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Dominica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, as well as Anguilla and Montserrat. A single currency to move from one island to another: this is a valuable asset if you are planning an "island hopping" itinerary between several of these destinations.
One notable feature: the XCD is pegged to the US dollar at a long-standing fixed rate of around 2.70 EC$ to 1 USD. This parity, in place for decades, gives the currency great predictability. In practical terms, the value of your EC$ notes only varies with the euro/dollar pair, which makes it easier to estimate your travel budget before you leave.
The US dollar widely accepted
On most of these highly touristic islands, the US dollar is commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops aimed at visitors. However, paying in USD is often done at an unfavourable exchange rate, and your change may be given to you in EC$. For small shops, local markets, shared taxis, buses or tips, having East Caribbean dollar notes remains far more practical and economical.
Cash, cards and ATMs on site
The cash payment culture remains strong in the Lesser Antilles, particularly outside the large hotel resorts. Visa and Mastercard cards work in tourist establishments, but many independent providers — fruit sellers, craftspeople, beach vendors, drivers — operate exclusively in cash. Automated teller machines (ATMs) exist in town centres and airports, but they can be rare in rural areas, sometimes out of order or out of cash, and they charge foreign withdrawal fees that add to those of your bank.
Arriving with a reserve of XCD saves you from looking for an ATM as soon as you land and from depending on a sometimes unreliable local banking network. It is also a safeguard against the exchange commissions charged by some bureaux on site.
Why book this currency in advance
The East Caribbean dollar is one of the uncommon currencies: not all bureaux de change keep it in permanent stock. At Paris Change, you can complete your currency purchase online and reserve your XCD notes to guarantee their availability on the day you pick them up in store. Booking in advance means making sure you leave with the amount you want, with no unpleasant surprises.
Exchanging your euros for XCD at Paris Change
Paris Change is a bureau de change approved by the ACPR (Banque de France), a guarantee of seriousness and regulatory compliance. Our single shop is located at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel, 75005 Paris, accessible via the Saint-Michel metro (line 4) and the RER B and C. We are open 7 days a week (Monday to Saturday from 9am to 8pm, Sunday from 10am to 7:30pm) and we offer commission-free exchange on more than 53 currencies.
The process is simple: you reserve your amount in East Caribbean dollars online, then you come and collect your notes in store at your convenience, during our opening hours. Our rates are indicative counter rates, adjusted each day according to the markets; we give you the exact amount at the time of the transaction.
Keep customs regulations in mind
If you carry the equivalent of €10,000 or more in cash when entering or leaving the European Union, a customs declaration is mandatory. Below that, no particular formality is required for your travel cash.
Frequently asked questions
Should you exchange into USD or XCD for the Lesser Antilles?
Both are accepted, but paying in East Caribbean dollars avoids the unfavourable rates applied to the US dollar and the change sometimes given back at random. For small expenses, markets and local transport, the XCD is ideal. A combination of XCD and a bank card covers most situations.
Is the East Caribbean dollar hard to find?
It is a less common currency, which is not always in stock. We recommend booking it online in advance in order to guarantee the availability of the notes on the day you pick them up in store.
Is the XCD rate stable?
Yes. The East Caribbean dollar is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate, which makes its value very predictable. For you, only the variation of the euro against the dollar affects the amount you will receive.
Are you soon heading to Saint Lucia, Antigua, Grenada or elsewhere in the Lesser Antilles? Reserve your East Caribbean dollars online now and come and collect them 7 days a week at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel, in Paris. Our team welcomes you commission-free to help you calmly prepare for your trip.
