ATMs in Portugal: All About Fees, Charges And Withdrawal Limits (2024)

Whether you’re strolling the streets of Lisbon or lounging on a beach in the Algarve, you’ll always need cash to get by. To help you navigate Portugal’s ATM system – and avoid surprise fees – we’ve put together this guide to ATMs in Portugal.

Portugal ATMs

Like other EU countries, Portugal has ATMs throughout the country. You’ll see them at the airport, banks, and along the streets of the cities. Smaller towns will have at least a couple of ATMs, as well.

Keep an eye out for ATMs when you’re visiting Portugal, because no matter where you go, Portugal is a cash-centric country. Plus, Portugal uses the euro as its currency, so if you’re traveling from the US, the UK, or another non-euro country, you’ll probably need to hit an ATM as soon as you arrive.

Depending on your bank and your home country, you might never see a familiar ATM in Portugal. But never fear; you’ve got options that will work like any ATM back home.

Multibanco ATMs

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With more than 12,000 ATMs throughout the country, Multibanco is the go-to banking system in Portugal. The Multibanco system is a combined network of ATMs for customers of 27 Portuguese banks.

With Multibanco, clients of participating banks can do everything from withdrawing cash to paying taxes, all from an ATM.

For users who don’t have a Portuguese bank account, you can use Multibanco machines as a regular ATM.

In general, Portuguese bank account holders won’t pay fees for taking euros out of a Multibanco ATM. If you’re visiting Portugal, you’ll most likely be charged a small withdrawal fee. It’s also likely you’ll pay a foreign exchange fee – and those will vary depending on your bank.

Portugal’s ATM withdrawal limit

The standard ATM limit in Portugal is generally €400 per day. But be prepared – your ATM might limit you to €200 per withdrawal. If so, try making a second withdrawal, even at the same machine, to get to the €400 limit.

International banks with ATMs in Portugal

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You might be able to find an ATM from your home bank, or at least one that allows for withdrawals with reduced (or no) fees.

BBVA ATM Portugal

Are you a BBVA customer? If so, you’ve got access to BBVA branches in Lisbon, Porto, and a few other places in Portugal. Find the nearest BBVA in Portugal with this branch locator.

Banco Santander ATM Portugal

Clients of banking giant Santander have access to bank branches and ATMs all over Portugal. And, if you have a Santander account, you’ll probably get a break on both ATM and exchange fees. Learn more by checking the Santander branch locator.

Barclays ATM Portugal

If you’re a Barclays customer, you’ll have access to Barclays ATMs in Portugal. Find out where the nearest Barclays ATM is with this handy online locator.

Global ATM Alliance Portugal

Several popular banks are part of the Global ATM Alliance, including Bank of America, Barclays, Deutche Bank, and others. This network of ATMs allows customers from any of the participating banks to withdraw cash with no ATM fee.

Of course, taking cash from your own bank’s ATM almost always means paying low or no ATM fees. But with the Global ATM Alliance, you have the flexibility to make a withdrawal from the ATMs of any bank in the network — depending on the rules of your particular bank. However, you might still pay foreign transaction or cash advance fees, depending on your account.

The complete list of banks in the Global ATM Alliance is as follows:

  • Deutsche Bank
  • Barclays
  • BNP Paribas
  • Bank of America
  • Scotiabank
  • Westpac
  • Banca Nazionale del Lavoro

As of this writing, only Barclays and Deutsche Bank have ATMs in Portugal.

Can I pay with my international debit or credit card in Portugal?

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Yes, in many places you can, especially chain stores and hotels throughout Portugal. One factor you should consider, however, is whether you’re using a chip-and-PIN card.

Portugal, along with most European countries, uses chip-and-PIN cards. Cards issued in the US almost always have a PIN, but very few use the same chip-and-PIN technology that’s so common in Europe.

In many places, you should be able to use your card with a PIN and/or signature, but it’s not a given. And many vendors – especially smaller, local businesses – only accept cards from Portugal’s local banking system, Multibanco.

Portugal has lots of small businesses that are cash-only, too. You’ll even see small signs in some shop windows that say “Não tem Multibanco.” That’s why it’s good to always have some cash on hand.

Portugal ATMs and six-digit PINs

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Some banks are now issuing six-digit PINs to customers instead of the usual four digits. If you’re one of those customers, no worries. Most ATMs will let you put in a longer PIN if you need to. And if you’re asked for a six-digit PIN but yours is only four, again, no problem. Just put in your PIN, hit OK, and you should be fine.

ATM fees in Portugal

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We’re really talking about two different sets of fees for cash withdrawals.

The ATM you use might charge:

  • A withdrawal fee
  • An exchange rate fee

Then, your bank might also charge:

  • A withdrawal fee
  • A foreign exchange fee

For starters, if you’re withdrawing euros from an account in the US or UK (or any other country that doesn’t use euros), you’ll pay a foreign exchange fee. You’ll probably also pay a bank fee because you’re most likely using an ATM outside of your network.

How to avoid high fees at ATMs in Portugal

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Avoid Euronet ATMs

Here’s the best tip we can give you: Avoid Euronet ATMs like the plague.

Euronet Worldwide is a Kansas-based business that specializes in “global electronic transactions.” It’s also likely the most expensive way you’ll ever access your own money, if you’re unlucky enough to use a Euronet ATM. Just don’t.

Taking advantage of unsuspecting visitors, these blue-and-yellow ATMs charge ridiculously high fees. You’ll see them all over Portugal – and lots of other countries – often in tourist-heavy locations like malls or airports.

Always use the local currency

As for the rest of the ATMs in Portugal, we know another easy way to save money. ATMs will often ask if you want to navigate your transaction in your home currency or the local currency. Always complete your transaction in the local currency.

This sounds like no big deal, but it can save you a lot in fees. Here’s why: Basically, if you agree to complete the transaction in your home currency, you’re allowing the ATM provider to use its own exchange rate – which is rarely, if ever, competitive.

To avoid a poor exchange rate, you should always choose to have ATM transactions in Portugal done in euros. You might not get the exchange rate you see on the news or on Google, but it’s better than the alternative.

Open a multi-currency account

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The best way to avoid foreign exchange fees at the ATM is by having an account that lets you hold multiple currencies – say, dollars and euros, for example.

With the rise of mobile-only banks like N26, these multi-currency cards are getting more and more popular. Transferwise and Revolut accounts also provide cards that can be used across borders with fewer fees.

Want to know more? Read our full article on mobile banking in Portugal.

ATM fees from your home bank

Of course, every bank has its own fee structure. In general, you’ll see at least some of the fees listed above. But if your bank has a partnership with a bank in Portugal, you might be able to avoid most or all of them.

The surest way to avoid heavy home bank fees is by having a multi-currency account like the Transferwise Borderless Account.

ATM fees from Portuguese banks

And finally, Multibanco ATMs might tack on a small charge for international processing. Assume the fee will be a few dollars per transaction.

Is it safe to carry money in Portugal?

Yes. Portugal is one of thesafest countries in Europe. In fact, it’s ranked as the 13th safest country in the world. Crime rates are generally very low. Pickpockets are probably the most common problem, especially in tourist-heavy areas – so pay attention to your things!

bePortugal’s top tips for avoiding ATM fees in Portugal

  • See if your bank belongs to an ATM network like Global ATM Alliance
  • Avoid Euronet ATMs in Portugal (and everywhere)
  • Make fewer but larger withdrawals
  • Always choose transactions in the local currency instead of your home currency

Help, I need to translate this ATM!

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No worries. These are terms you’ll probably see at the ATM, along with their English meaning:

  • Levantamento: Withdraw
  • Consulta de saldo: Balance inquiry
  • Recibo: Receipt
  • Retirar o seu dinheiro: Please take your money
  • Fora de serviço: Out of order

FAQ

Are there Bitcoin ATMs in Portugal?

Yes! If you use Bitcoin, you can find ATMs in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and Braga.

Are US credit cards accepted in Portugal?

Generally, yes. Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted. American Express is accepted in some places, but not as frequently as the first two.

Can I withdraw cash in Portugal for free?

Yes, if you have an account with a Portuguese bank that uses the Multibanco ATM network. This doesn’t apply to most tourists, though, so keep in mind that most cards from outside Portugal will incur a fee.

Where can I find ATMs that work with US credit or debit cards?

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Here’s a list of ATM locators for major credit and debit card networks:

Is there a Bank of America ATM in Portugal?

There are no Bank of America ATMs in Portugal. However, you can still make withdrawals from ATMs in Portugal. Just remember that Bank of America will charge an international transaction fee, an out-of-network ATM fee, and an ATM operator access fee.

Is there a Citibank ATM in Portugal?

There are no Citibank ATMs in Portugal, but as with Bank of America, you should be able to use your card anyway. Similar fees will apply, but Citibank’s fees may vary depending on the account you have.

Can I increase my ATM withdrawal limit in Portugal?

Sorry, no. All ATMs in Portugal are limited to the €400 per day we talk about earlier in this article.

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ATMs in Portugal: All About Fees, Charges And Withdrawal Limits (2024)

FAQs

Do ATMs in Portugal charge fees? ›

In general, Portuguese bank account holders won't pay fees for taking euros out of a Multibanco ATM. If you're visiting Portugal, you'll most likely be charged a small withdrawal fee. It's also likely you'll pay a foreign exchange fee – and those will vary depending on your bank.

How much can I withdraw from ATM Portugal? ›

Withdrawal limit from ATM in Portugal

There is a standard withdrawal ATM limit in Portugal and this is 400 euro/day. But in practice you will encounter an even lower limit, that is 200 euro/attempt of withdrawal.

How much does it cost to withdraw money in Portugal? ›

These types of ATM's are usually located in popular tourist locations and outside small shops and cafes (Euronet is one example). These machines will charge you €4 or €5 (sometimes more) to withdraw.

How much is the fee on an ATM withdrawal? ›

Bank ATM fees can vary from as low as $2.50 per transaction to as high as $5 or more, depending on whether the ATM you use is out-of-network or even international.

How can I avoid ATM fees in Portugal? ›

The best way to avoid expensive conversion fess is to sign up for a currency card such as Wise, Revolut, Monzo etc. I'm going to recommend Wise here because I have personally used them for the last 6 years I have been living in Portugal. In fact, my Wise card is my main account, and I use it for everything.

How much does it cost to use debit card in Portugal? ›

Portugal banks' fees

Multibanco ATMs adds an international processing fee for some banks. As a benchmark, you should estimate a surcharge between $1 and $7 per withdrawal.

What is my daily ATM withdrawal limit? ›

Your ATM Withdrawal and Daily Debt Purchase limit will typically vary from $300 to $2,500 depending on who you bank with and what kind of account you have. There are no monetary limits for withdrawals from savings accounts, but federal law does limit the number of savings withdrawals to six each month.

How much cash are you allowed to withdraw? ›

A frequently cited limit on the most cash you can withdraw at any one time is $10,000. However, the reality is that withdrawals of $10,000 or greater are allowed, but they will trigger federal government reporting requirements.

How much euro Can I withdraw ATM? ›

Most ATM withdrawal limits are between €200–€300 a day. Always be aware of your bank's withdrawal limit, especially if the money you need exceeds that amount.

What is the best bank for foreigners in Portugal? ›

What are the best banks in Portugal for expats?
  • Millennium BCP. The Millennium BCP bank is the largest bank in the country and has been around for over three decades. ...
  • Caixa Geral de Depositos. This is one of the oldest banks in Portugal. ...
  • Novo Banco. ...
  • Banco BPI. ...
  • Obtain a NIF number. ...
  • Moey (from Caixa Agrícola) ...
  • Wise. ...
  • N26.
26 Apr 2022

Can I use my ATM card in Portugal? ›

Will my credit or debit card work in Portugal? Yes. Many Portuguese shops, restaurants, and museums will accept international cards, especially in more touristy areas. American cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted in a majority of locations.

Which bank account is best in Portugal? ›

The best Portuguese bank is Caixa Geral de Depositos. It also is the largest and the only public bank in the country. The Banker magazine included Caixa Geral de Depositos in the top 200 world banks.

Do all ATMs charge a withdrawal fee? ›

Bank ATM fees are just one of the many bank fees you can face. Usually, your bank won't charge an ATM fee when you use a bank-branded machine. However, if you use an ATM outside of the bank's network, you'll likely face an ATM fee. This includes withdrawals, deposits and balance inquiries.

What ATM doesnt charge a fee for withdrawal? ›

Other online banks such as Simple or Chime have great options for ATM usage. Simple has a fee-free ATM finder on their website and allows customers to use ATMs in Walmart, Costco, Dunkin Donuts, Walgreens, Hess, Target, and CVS, without being charged a fee. Chime's network has more than 38,000 fee-free MoneyPass ATMs.

What fees are charged for withdrawing money? ›

There are three main types of withdrawal fees: regular account transaction fees, network access fees, and convenience fees. It's possible that all of these (and others) will listed as withdrawal fees on your bank statement.

Where can I withdraw without a fee? ›

The 7 Best Checking Accounts With No ATM Fees in 2022
  • Best Overall: Axos Bank.
  • Best Interest Rate: Paramount Bank.
  • Best for International ATMs: Needham Bank.
  • Best for Debit Card Users: LendingClub.
  • Best From a Credit Union: Alliant Credit Union.
  • Best for Low Fees From a Big Bank: Ally Bank.
  • Best for Overdrafts: Discover Bank.

Is it cheaper to withdraw cash abroad or use debit card? ›

On debit cards, spending is still cheaper as while there's no interest on a cash withdrawal, there's often still a fee (as well as the non-sterling transaction fee) when you use a cash machine.

What is the best way to pay in Portugal? ›

Popular payment methods
  1. Multibanco. Vouchers, prepaid and giftcards. The most popular payment method in Portugal.
  2. Visa. Cards. Visa is one of world's largest global card networks.
  3. Mastercard. Cards. ...
  4. Maestro. Cards. ...
  5. MB WAY. Digital wallets. ...
  6. American Express (AMEX) Cards. ...
  7. PayPal. Digital wallets.

Are there any roaming charges in Portugal? ›

Portugal is a Go Roam in Europe destination which means you can use your data here at no extra cost. If you have an Add-on with a data allowance of 12GB or greater, a fair use limit applies, with use over 12GB subject to a surcharge (see below).

What is the best card to use in Portugal? ›

Carry at least two cards on your trip to Portugal, preferably connected with Visa or Mastercard. If you just take an American Express card, you won't get to use it in many places.

Is it better to use cash or card in Portugal? ›

Money in Portugal

While credit and debit cards are generally accepted, Portugal is a cash-centric country — especially when you get outside of cities like Lisbon and Porto.

How Much Is Too Much withdraw? ›

The sustainable withdrawal rate is the estimated percentage of savings you're able to withdraw each year throughout retirement without running out of money. As an estimate, aim to withdraw no more than 4% to 5% of your savings in the first year of retirement, then adjust that amount every year for inflation.

How can I withdraw more than my daily limit? ›

If for whatever reason you need more cash than ATM limits allow, there are a few ways you can get around it:
  1. Request an increase in your daily limit.
  2. Make a withdrawal in person at a bank branch.
  3. Get a cash advance with a credit or debit card.
  4. Get cash back with a purchase at a store.
5 days ago

What happens if you withdraw a large amount of cash? ›

If it is a large amount, the bank teller may question what the money is for. The Bank Secrecy Act requires banks to report any withdrawals of over $10,000. So when they report it or ask about it, they're just doing their job. It helps with bank safety and protects people.

Is it best to get euros from ATM? ›

To answer your question, no, you absolutely won't be paying the same rate your own bank would charge you when you use an ATM. You'll likely be paying 5-10% less than if you walked into your bank and exchanged dollars for euros. 8. Re: Exchanging Currency.

Is it better to exchange currency or withdraw from ATM? ›

ATMs tend to offer competitive exchange rates, and you can save on ATM fees by withdrawing more cash than you need instead of withdrawing smaller sums several times during your trip.

Can you take 500 euro out of an ATM? ›

Please Note: you can withdraw up to €1,500 in cash from a CCL Machine and up to €600 from an ATM machine.

How much money do you need to be an expat in Portugal? ›

How much money do you need to live comfortably in Portugal? Compared to other European countries, Portugal is one of the most affordable. A couple with a mid-range income will be able to live comfortably in Portugal's interior cities for around €1,700 per month. A couple in Lisbon can live on around €2,000 per month.

How much bank balance is required for Portugal visa? ›

For Indian nationals to enter Portugal, you need to show you have at least €40 per day when applying for a Portugal Visa. Each time you enter Portugal's territory you must have funds of €75.

How much do you need to invest in Portugal to get residency? ›

You can qualify for residency by investing €280,000 which is one of the lowest investment thresholds in Europe, You don't have to move to Portugal to keep your residence permit. Staying in the country for seven days on average per year will suffice, You can be eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship in five years.

How can I avoid ATM fees abroad? ›

Get cash from an ATM at your destination. Opt to pay in the local currency. You will always get a better exchange rate. Use a card designed for travel.

Do ATM machines charge fees? ›

Most banks have a network of ATMs that offer free access to your money. But if you go outside of the network, a fee may be imposed, including: ATM operator fee. Also known as the surcharge, an operator fee is charged by the ATM owner to noncustomers using its ATMs.

Can a foreigner open bank account in Portugal? ›

Foreigners may open a bank account in Portugal, either as a resident or a non-resident. Non-resident accounts require more documentation and can have more restrictions than a resident account, but this is an option if you don't have an address in Portugal yet.

How much cash can I deposit in Portugal? ›

Receiving or making any payment in cash of amounts equal to or greater than €3,000 is forbidden (or the equivalent to that in foreign currency). This limit increases to €10,000 for payments by non-resident natural persons provided that they do not act as entrepreneurs or merchants.

Is banking free in Portugal? ›

Bank Fees in Portugal

Most Portugal banks charge their clients a monthly fee for their accounts. A Portuguese bank account generally costs between € 5-7 a month, and around € 60 a year. There are also charges on credit cards and overdrafts, and it varies according to the card type, the bank, and other similar criteria.

Which bank has unlimited free ATM transactions? ›

Unlimited Free ATM Withdrawal with your IndusInd Bank Debit Card across any ATM in India.
...
Banking Conveniences.
Cashier's Cheque / Demand Drafts Delivery1 Free / Day
Cash Pick-up1 Free / Day upto Rs. 1,00,000/-
2 more rows

How can I avoid ATM fees in Europe? ›

Exchange Cash Before Leaving The U.S.

One way to avoid ATM or transaction fees is to pay for a trip in cash. Travelers can exchange U.S. dollars for most major currencies at a bank, credit union or currency exchange store before a big trip.

Is it cheaper to exchange currency or use ATM? ›

Throughout Europe, ATMs are the easiest and smartest way for travelers to get cash. You'll usually pay withdrawal fees, but you'll still get a better rate than you would exchanging dollars for local cash at a currency exchange booth.

Do you tip in Portugal? ›

In general, Portugal is not a tipping culture, there are no established rules, and different people follow different rules. There is no obligation to tip in restaurants, hotels, bars, or personal service locations like salons and spas.

How many Euros should I take to Portugal for a week? ›

A vacation to Portugal for one week usually costs around €763 for one person. So, a trip to Portugal for two people costs around €1,527 for one week. A trip for two weeks for two people costs €3,053 in Portugal.

Should I get euros before going to Portugal? ›

It's a good idea to exchange at least some money -- just enough to cover airport incidentals and transportation to your hotel -- before you leave home (though don't expect the exchange rate to be ideal), so you can avoid lines at airport ATMs (automated teller machines).

How can I avoid ATM withdrawal fees? ›

Ways to avoid ATM fees
  1. Get cash back. When you check out at a grocery store or other retailer, you'll typically have the option to get cash back with the purchase. ...
  2. Find in-network ATMs. ...
  3. Go digital with a payment app. ...
  4. Withdraw larger sums, less frequently. ...
  5. Open an account that reimburses fees.
14 Jul 2022

Which ATM cards have no foreign transaction fees? ›

Which banks have no foreign transaction fees?
  • American Express: certain credit cards.
  • Bank of America: certain credit cards.
  • Barclays: certain credit cards.
  • Capital One: all credit cards, certain debit cards, certain ATM transactions.
  • Charles Schwab Bank: certain debit cards, certain ATM transactions.

Which banks do not charge international ATM fees? ›

Banks with no international ATM fees
  • Aspiration.
  • Betterment.
  • Charles Schwab.
  • Capital One.
  • Alliant Credit Union.
  • First Republic Bank.
  • Fidelity.
  • USAA.
26 Oct 2022

Should I get euros at airport or from ATM? ›

Key Takeaways. Currency exchange shops and kiosks in airports are not the best places to exchange money. For the best rates, try a local bank or a bank ATM to make your currency exchanges.

What is the best way to withdraw cash abroad? ›

We recommend withdrawing cash from ATMs as the cheapest way to get cash abroad if you're using a debit or credit card that's specifically geared toward international use or a travel card.

Which ATM lets you withdraw the most money? ›

Which bank has the highest ATM withdrawal limit? Morgan Stanley Bank currently has one of the highest ATM limits. It allows customers to withdraw $1,500 to $5,000 per day from an ATM, depending on the account type.

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